Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Macon, GA (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Macon

Georgia
65

Philadelphia is 31% more expensive than Macon.

$1,323/mo ↑ 29%
Median Rent
$1,026/mo ↓ 22%
$60,698/yr ↑ 20%
Median Income
$50,747/yr ↓ 16%
$232,400 ↑ 40%
Home Value
$165,800 ↓ 29%
$1,233/mo ↑ 21%
Owner Costs
$1,016/mo ↓ 18%
1,582,432
Population
156,543

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
5.49%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Macon, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $297/month cheaper in Macon, saving renters about $3,564/year.

Median household income is $9,951/year higher in Philadelphia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $165,800 in Macon.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Macon — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Macon cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Macon is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 85 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Macon?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Macon it's $1,026/month — a difference of $297/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Macon?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $50,747 in Macon. Median household income is $9,951/year higher in Philadelphia.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Georgia?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Macon?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Macon has a cost index of 65 with rent of $1,026/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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