Is Columbus or Philadelphia more affordable?
Columbus has a median rent of $1,050/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Columbus is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Columbus, OH vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Columbus and Philadelphia.
2
Columbus wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Philadelphia wins
OH
Columbus
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
905,748
Population
1,603,797
$53,373✓
Median Income
-8.0%$49,127
Cost of Living
$1,050✓
Median Rent / mo
+4.8%$1,100
$240,000
Median Home Price
-12.5%$210,000✓
24%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
3.99%
State Income Tax
3.07%✓
7.50%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
178 days
Sunny Days / Year
208 days✓
39"
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Columbus, OH
Columbus is a city in Ohio with a population of 905,748.
Read full Columbus guide →Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Columbus vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Columbus or Philadelphia?
Ohio has a 3.99% state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Columbus and Philadelphia?
Columbus gets 178 sunny days/year. Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Columbus: 62°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Columbus or Philadelphia?
Columbus. 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.