Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Scottsdale, AZ (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Scottsdale

Arizona
165

Philadelphia is 48% cheaper than Scottsdale.

$1,323/mo ↓ 31%
Median Rent
$1,910/mo ↑ 44%
$60,698/yr ↓ 43%
Median Income
$107,372/yr ↑ 77%
$232,400 ↓ 67%
Home Value
$709,900 ↑ 205%
$1,233/mo ↓ 32%
Owner Costs
$1,824/mo ↑ 48%
1,582,432
Population
242,169

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
2.5%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
5.6%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Scottsdale, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 165 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $587/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $7,044/year.

Median household income is $46,674/year higher in Scottsdale. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $709,900 in Scottsdale.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Scottsdale slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Scottsdale — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Scottsdale cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 165 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Scottsdale?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Scottsdale it's $1,910/month — a difference of $587/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Scottsdale?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $107,372 in Scottsdale. Median household income is $46,674/year higher in Scottsdale.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Arizona?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Scottsdale?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Scottsdale has a cost index of 165 with rent of $1,910/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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