Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Huntsville, AL (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Huntsville

Alabama
78

Philadelphia is 9% more expensive than Huntsville.

$1,323/mo ↑ 23%
Median Rent
$1,078/mo ↓ 19%
$60,698/yr ↓ 14%
Median Income
$70,778/yr ↑ 17%
$232,400 ↓ 12%
Home Value
$263,100 ↑ 13%
$1,233/mo ↑ 18%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 15%
1,582,432
Population
218,814

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
5.0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Huntsville, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 78 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $245/month cheaper in Huntsville, saving renters about $2,940/year.

Median household income is $10,080/year higher in Huntsville. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $263,100 in Huntsville.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Huntsville — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Huntsville cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Huntsville is cheaper to live in with an index of 78 compared to 85 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Huntsville?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Huntsville it's $1,078/month — a difference of $245/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Huntsville?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $70,778 in Huntsville. Median household income is $10,080/year higher in Huntsville.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Alabama?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Huntsville?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Huntsville has a cost index of 78 with rent of $1,078/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Philadelphia details → View Huntsville details →

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