Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Philadelphia is 9% cheaper than Rochester.

$1,323/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ≈ Same
$60,698/yr ↓ 31%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 45%
$232,400 ↓ 19%
Home Value
$287,500 ↑ 24%
$1,233/mo ↓ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ↑ 8%
1,582,432
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
9.85%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.875%
1.49%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $27,069/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Rochester — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 93 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Rochester?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $7/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Rochester?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $27,069/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Minnesota?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 93 with rent of $1,316/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Philadelphia details → View Rochester details →

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