Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Seattle, WA (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Seattle

Washington
196

Philadelphia is 57% cheaper than Seattle.

$1,323/mo ↓ 34%
Median Rent
$1,998/mo ↑ 51%
$60,698/yr ↓ 50%
Median Income
$121,984/yr ↑ 101%
$232,400 ↓ 75%
Home Value
$912,100 ↑ 292%
$1,233/mo ↓ 44%
Owner Costs
$2,220/mo ↑ 80%
1,582,432
Population
741,440

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Seattle, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 196 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $675/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $8,100/year.

Median household income is $61,286/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $912,100 in Seattle.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over Pennsylvania's 3.07% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Seattle — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Seattle cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 196 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Seattle?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Seattle it's $1,998/month — a difference of $675/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Seattle?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $121,984 in Seattle. Median household income is $61,286/year higher in Seattle.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Washington?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Seattle?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Seattle has a cost index of 196 with rent of $1,998/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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