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

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Pomona

California
143

Philadelphia is 41% cheaper than Pomona.

$1,323/mo ↓ 24%
Median Rent
$1,738/mo ↑ 31%
$60,698/yr ↓ 23%
Median Income
$78,869/yr ↑ 30%
$232,400 ↓ 59%
Home Value
$569,600 ↑ 145%
$1,233/mo ↓ 30%
Owner Costs
$1,758/mo ↑ 43%
1,582,432
Population
148,391

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
13.3%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
7.25%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.71%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Pomona, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 143 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $415/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $4,980/year.

Median household income is $18,171/year higher in Pomona. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $569,600 in Pomona.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Pomona — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Pomona cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 143 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Pomona?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Pomona it's $1,738/month — a difference of $415/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Pomona?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $78,869 in Pomona. Median household income is $18,171/year higher in Pomona.
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 Pomona?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Pomona has a cost index of 143 with rent of $1,738/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Philadelphia details → View Pomona details →

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