Philadelphia, PA vs Buffalo, NY: 85 vs 61

$1,323/mo ↑ 34%

Median Rent

$989/mo ↓ 25%

$60,698/yr ↑ 26%

Median Income

$48,050/yr ↓ 21%

$232,400 ↑ 53%

Home Value

$152,300 ↓ 34%

$1,233/mo ↑ 33%

Owner Costs

$929/mo ↓ 25%

1,582,432

Population

276,397

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Buffalo, NY, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 61 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $334/month cheaper in Buffalo, saving renters about $4,008/year.

Median household income is $12,648/year higher in Philadelphia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $152,300 in Buffalo.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Buffalo — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Buffalo cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 85 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Buffalo?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Buffalo it's $989/month — a difference of $334/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Buffalo?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $48,050 in Buffalo. Median household income is $12,648/year higher in Philadelphia.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and New York?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Buffalo?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with rent of $989/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Buffalo, NY (2026)

Philadelphia

Buffalo

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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