Philadelphia, PA vs Ontario, CA: 85 vs 152

$1,323/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$1,916/mo ↑ 45%

$60,698/yr ↓ 27%

Median Income

$82,806/yr ↑ 36%

$232,400 ↓ 59%

Home Value

$568,000 ↑ 144%

$1,233/mo ↓ 37%

Owner Costs

$1,967/mo ↑ 60%

1,582,432

Population

178,347

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Ontario, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 152 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $593/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $7,116/year.

Median household income is $22,108/year higher in Ontario. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $568,000 in Ontario.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Ontario — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Ontario cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 152 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Ontario?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Ontario it's $1,916/month — a difference of $593/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Ontario?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $82,806 in Ontario. Median household income is $22,108/year higher in Ontario.

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 Ontario?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Ontario has a cost index of 152 with rent of $1,916/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Philadelphia

Ontario

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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