Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Austin, TX (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Austin

Texas
134

Philadelphia is 49% cheaper than Austin.

$1,323/mo ↓ 20%
Median Rent
$1,655/mo ↑ 25%
$60,698/yr ↓ 34%
Median Income
$91,461/yr ↑ 51%
$232,400 ↓ 55%
Home Value
$512,700 ↑ 121%
$1,233/mo ↓ 29%
Owner Costs
$1,747/mo ↑ 42%
1,582,432
Population
967,862

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
Sales Tax
6.25%
1.49%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Austin, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 134 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $332/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $3,984/year.

Median household income is $30,763/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $512,700 in Austin.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Austin residents a significant tax advantage over Pennsylvania's 3.07% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Austin — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Austin cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 134 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Austin?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Austin it's $1,655/month — a difference of $332/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Austin?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $91,461 in Austin. Median household income is $30,763/year higher in Austin.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Texas?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Austin?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Austin has a cost index of 134 with rent of $1,655/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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