Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Portland, OR (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Portland

Oregon
138

Philadelphia is 38% cheaper than Portland.

$1,323/mo ↓ 17%
Median Rent
$1,596/mo ↑ 21%
$60,698/yr ↓ 32%
Median Income
$88,792/yr ↑ 46%
$232,400 ↓ 58%
Home Value
$557,600 ↑ 140%
$1,233/mo ↓ 30%
Owner Costs
$1,771/mo ↑ 44%
1,582,432
Population
642,715

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
9.9%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
0%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Portland, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 138 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $273/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $3,276/year.

Median household income is $28,094/year higher in Portland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $557,600 in Portland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Portland — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Portland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 138 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Portland?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Portland it's $1,596/month — a difference of $273/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Portland?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $88,792 in Portland. Median household income is $28,094/year higher in Portland.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Oregon?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Portland?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Portland has a cost index of 138 with rent of $1,596/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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