Philadelphia, PA vs Oakland, CA: 85 vs 195

$1,323/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$1,917/mo ↑ 45%

$60,698/yr ↓ 38%

Median Income

$97,369/yr ↑ 60%

$232,400 ↓ 75%

Home Value

$924,700 ↑ 298%

$1,233/mo ↓ 43%

Owner Costs

$2,164/mo ↑ 76%

1,582,432

Population

438,072

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Oakland, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 195 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $594/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $7,128/year.

Median household income is $36,671/year higher in Oakland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $924,700 in Oakland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Oakland — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Oakland cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 195 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Oakland?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Oakland it's $1,917/month — a difference of $594/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Oakland?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $97,369 in Oakland. Median household income is $36,671/year higher in Oakland.

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 Oakland?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Oakland has a cost index of 195 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Philadelphia

Oakland

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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