Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Pearland, TX (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Pearland

Texas
121

Philadelphia is 30% cheaper than Pearland.

$1,323/mo ↓ 25%
Median Rent
$1,759/mo ↑ 33%
$60,698/yr ↓ 46%
Median Income
$112,470/yr ↑ 85%
$232,400 ↓ 30%
Home Value
$330,900 ↑ 42%
$1,233/mo ↓ 37%
Owner Costs
$1,962/mo ↑ 59%
1,582,432
Population
125,983

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.49%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Pearland, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $436/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $5,232/year.

Median household income is $51,772/year higher in Pearland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $330,900 in Pearland.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Pearland residents a significant tax advantage over Pennsylvania's 3.07% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Pearland — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Pearland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Pearland?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Pearland it's $1,759/month — a difference of $436/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Pearland?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $112,470 in Pearland. Median household income is $51,772/year higher in Pearland.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Texas?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Pearland?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Pearland has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,759/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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