Is Chattanooga or Philadelphia more affordable?
Chattanooga has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Both cities have similar rent costs.
City comparison
Chattanooga, TN vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chattanooga and Philadelphia.
3
Chattanooga wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Philadelphia wins
TN
Chattanooga
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
181,099
Population
1,603,797
$52,000✓
Median Income
-5.5%$49,127
Cost of Living
$1,100
Median Rent / mo
-0.0%$1,100
$280,000
Median Home Price
-25.0%$210,000✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
3.07%
9.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
68°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
48°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
215 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
208 days
54"
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga is a city in Tennessee with a population of 181,099.
Read full Chattanooga guide →Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Chattanooga vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chattanooga or Philadelphia?
Tennessee has no state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Chattanooga wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chattanooga and Philadelphia?
Chattanooga gets 215 sunny days/year. Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chattanooga: 68°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Chattanooga or Philadelphia?
Chattanooga. 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.