Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Thornton, CO (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Thornton

Colorado
138

Philadelphia is 38% cheaper than Thornton.

$1,323/mo ↓ 27%
Median Rent
$1,810/mo ↑ 37%
$60,698/yr ↓ 40%
Median Income
$100,985/yr ↑ 66%
$232,400 ↓ 52%
Home Value
$482,200 ↑ 107%
$1,233/mo ↓ 36%
Owner Costs
$1,914/mo ↑ 55%
1,582,432
Population
142,878

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
4.4%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
2.9%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.51%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Thornton, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 138 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $487/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $5,844/year.

Median household income is $40,287/year higher in Thornton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $482,200 in Thornton.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Thornton — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Thornton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 138 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Thornton?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Thornton it's $1,810/month — a difference of $487/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Thornton?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $100,985 in Thornton. Median household income is $40,287/year higher in Thornton.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Colorado?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Thornton?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Thornton has a cost index of 138 with rent of $1,810/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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