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

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Rochester

New York
61

Philadelphia is 39% more expensive than Rochester.

$1,323/mo ↑ 27%
Median Rent
$1,039/mo ↓ 21%
$60,698/yr ↑ 30%
Median Income
$46,628/yr ↓ 23%
$232,400 ↑ 93%
Home Value
$120,600 ↓ 48%
$1,233/mo ↑ 22%
Owner Costs
$1,009/mo ↓ 18%
1,582,432
Population
209,720

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
10.9%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
1.49%
Property Tax
1.62%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Rochester, NY, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 61 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $284/month cheaper in Rochester, saving renters about $3,408/year.

Median household income is $14,070/year higher in Philadelphia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $120,600 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, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 85 (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 $1,039/month — a difference of $284/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Rochester?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $46,628 in Rochester. Median household income is $14,070/year higher in Philadelphia.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and New York?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% 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 61 with rent of $1,039/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Philadelphia details → View Rochester details →

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