Philadelphia, PA vs Irvine, CA: 85 vs 256

$1,323/mo ↓ 54%

Median Rent

$2,893/mo ↑ 119%

$60,698/yr ↓ 53%

Median Income

$129,647/yr ↑ 114%

$232,400 ↓ 79%

Home Value

$1,115,400 ↑ 380%

$1,233/mo ↓ 58%

Owner Costs

$2,904/mo ↑ 136%

1,582,432

Population

308,160

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Irvine, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 256 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,570/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $18,840/year.

Median household income is $68,949/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $1,115,400 in Irvine.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Irvine — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Irvine cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Irvine?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Irvine it's $2,893/month — a difference of $1,570/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Irvine?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $129,647 in Irvine. Median household income is $68,949/year higher in Irvine.

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 Irvine?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Irvine has a cost index of 256 with rent of $2,893/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Philadelphia

Irvine

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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