Philadelphia, PA vs Boston, MA: 85 vs 176

$1,323/mo ↓ 37%

Median Rent

$2,093/mo ↑ 58%

$60,698/yr ↓ 36%

Median Income

$94,755/yr ↑ 56%

$232,400 ↓ 67%

Home Value

$710,400 ↑ 206%

$1,233/mo ↓ 43%

Owner Costs

$2,176/mo ↑ 76%

1,582,432

Population

663,972

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Boston, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 176 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $770/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $9,240/year.

Median household income is $34,057/year higher in Boston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $710,400 in Boston.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Boston — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Boston cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 176 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Boston?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Boston it's $2,093/month — a difference of $770/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Boston?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $94,755 in Boston. Median household income is $34,057/year higher in Boston.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Massachusetts?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Boston?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Boston has a cost index of 176 with rent of $2,093/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Boston, MA (2026)

Philadelphia

Boston

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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