Philadelphia, PA vs Lansing, MI: 85 vs 58

$1,323/mo ↑ 36%

Median Rent

$976/mo ↓ 26%

$60,698/yr ↑ 16%

Median Income

$52,170/yr ↓ 14%

$232,400 ↑ 95%

Home Value

$119,400 ↓ 49%

$1,233/mo ↑ 26%

Owner Costs

$978/mo ↓ 21%

1,582,432

Population

112,546

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Lansing, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 58 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $347/month cheaper in Lansing, saving renters about $4,164/year.

Median household income is $8,528/year higher in Philadelphia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $119,400 in Lansing.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Lansing — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Lansing cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lansing is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 85 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Lansing?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Lansing it's $976/month — a difference of $347/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Lansing?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $52,170 in Lansing. Median household income is $8,528/year higher in Philadelphia.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Michigan?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Lansing?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Lansing has a cost index of 58 with rent of $976/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Lansing, MI (2026)

Philadelphia

Lansing

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons