Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Naperville, IL (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Naperville

Illinois
147

Philadelphia is 42% cheaper than Naperville.

$1,323/mo ↓ 29%
Median Rent
$1,852/mo ↑ 40%
$60,698/yr ↓ 60%
Median Income
$150,937/yr ↑ 149%
$232,400 ↓ 54%
Home Value
$509,900 ↑ 119%
$1,233/mo ↓ 43%
Owner Costs
$2,161/mo ↑ 75%
1,582,432
Population
149,424

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.49%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
14.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Naperville, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 147 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $529/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $6,348/year.

Median household income is $90,239/year higher in Naperville. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $509,900 in Naperville.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Naperville — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Naperville cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 147 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Naperville?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Naperville it's $1,852/month — a difference of $529/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Naperville?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $150,937 in Naperville. Median household income is $90,239/year higher in Naperville.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Illinois?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Naperville?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Naperville has a cost index of 147 with rent of $1,852/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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