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

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Tacoma

Washington
126

Philadelphia is 33% cheaper than Tacoma.

$1,323/mo ↓ 17%
Median Rent
$1,597/mo ↑ 21%
$60,698/yr ↓ 28%
Median Income
$83,857/yr ↑ 38%
$232,400 ↓ 49%
Home Value
$454,600 ↑ 96%
$1,233/mo ↓ 29%
Owner Costs
$1,747/mo ↑ 42%
1,582,432
Population
220,482

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
22.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Tacoma, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $274/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $3,288/year.

Median household income is $23,159/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $454,600 in Tacoma.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Tacoma — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Tacoma cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 126 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Tacoma?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Tacoma it's $1,597/month — a difference of $274/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Tacoma?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $83,857 in Tacoma. Median household income is $23,159/year higher in Tacoma.
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 Tacoma?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,597/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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More Comparisons

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