Philadelphia, PA vs Lowell, MA: 85 vs 119

$1,323/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 21%

$60,698/yr ↓ 20%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 26%

$232,400 ↓ 41%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 70%

$1,233/mo ↓ 26%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 36%

1,582,432

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $280/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $3,360/year.

Median household income is $15,507/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Lowell — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Lowell?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $280/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Lowell?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $15,507/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Massachusetts?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Philadelphia

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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