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

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Philadelphia is 6% cheaper than Spokane.

$1,323/mo ↑ 16%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↓ 14%
$60,698/yr ↓ 8%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↑ 8%
$232,400 ↓ 29%
Home Value
$326,200 ↑ 40%
$1,233/mo ↑ 2%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↓ 2%
1,582,432
Population
229,228

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
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $182/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $2,184/year.

Median household income is $5,047/year higher in Spokane. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Spokane — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Spokane?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $182/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Spokane?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $5,047/year higher in Spokane.
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 Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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