Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Bakersfield, CA (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Bakersfield

California
104

Philadelphia is 18% cheaper than Bakersfield.

$1,323/mo ↓ 4%
Median Rent
$1,371/mo ↑ 4%
$60,698/yr ↓ 22%
Median Income
$77,397/yr ↑ 28%
$232,400 ↓ 33%
Home Value
$347,300 ↑ 49%
$1,233/mo ↓ 20%
Owner Costs
$1,540/mo ↑ 25%
1,582,432
Population
408,366

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
13.3%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
7.25%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.71%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Bakersfield, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 104 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $16,699/year higher in Bakersfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $347,300 in Bakersfield.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Bakersfield — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Bakersfield cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 104 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Bakersfield?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Bakersfield it's $1,371/month — a difference of $48/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Bakersfield?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $77,397 in Bakersfield. Median household income is $16,699/year higher in Bakersfield.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and California?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Bakersfield?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Bakersfield has a cost index of 104 with rent of $1,371/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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