Philadelphia, PA vs Columbia, MO: 85 vs 80

$1,323/mo ↑ 24%

Median Rent

$1,067/mo ↓ 19%

$60,698/yr ↓ 6%

Median Income

$64,488/yr ↑ 6%

$232,400 ↓ 13%

Home Value

$268,300 ↑ 15%

$1,233/mo ↑ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,114/mo ↓ 10%

1,582,432

Population

127,200

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Columbia, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $256/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $3,072/year.

Median household income is $3,790/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $268,300 in Columbia.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Columbia — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 85 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Columbia?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Columbia it's $1,067/month — a difference of $256/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Columbia?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $64,488 in Columbia. Median household income is $3,790/year higher in Columbia.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Missouri?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Columbia has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,067/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Columbia, MO (2026)

Philadelphia

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons