Is Fresno or Philadelphia more affordable?
Fresno has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Both cities have similar rent costs.
City comparison
Fresno, CA vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Fresno and Philadelphia.
1
Fresno wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Philadelphia wins
CA
Fresno
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
542,107
Population
1,603,797
$47,625
Median Income
+3.2%$49,127✓
Cost of Living
$1,100
Median Rent / mo
-0.0%$1,100
$320,000
Median Home Price
-34.4%$210,000✓
28%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
3.07%✓
8.35%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
78°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
53°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
272 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
208 days
11"
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Fresno vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Fresno or Philadelphia?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Fresno and Philadelphia?
Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Fresno or Philadelphia?
Fresno. 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.