Is Baltimore or Philadelphia more affordable?
Baltimore has a median rent of $1,400/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Baltimore, MD vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Baltimore and Philadelphia.
2
Baltimore wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Philadelphia wins
MD
Baltimore
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
576,498
Population
1,603,797
$52,164✓
Median Income
-5.8%$49,127
Cost of Living
$1,400
Median Rent / mo
-21.4%$1,100✓
$220,000
Median Home Price
-4.5%$210,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
5.75%
State Income Tax
3.07%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
45°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
210 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
208 days
43"
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Baltimore, MD
Baltimore is a city in Maryland with a population of 576,498.
Read full Baltimore guide →Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Baltimore vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Baltimore or Philadelphia?
Maryland has a 5.75% state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Baltimore and Philadelphia?
Baltimore gets 210 sunny days/year. Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Baltimore: 64°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Baltimore or Philadelphia?
Baltimore. Philadelphia. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.