Is Indianapolis or Philadelphia more affordable?
Indianapolis has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Indianapolis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Indianapolis, IN vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Indianapolis and Philadelphia.
2
Indianapolis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Philadelphia wins
IN
Indianapolis
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
887,642
Population
1,603,797
$51,225✓
Median Income
-4.1%$49,127
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+10.0%$1,100
$225,000
Median Home Price
-6.7%$210,000✓
23%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
3.15%
State Income Tax
3.07%✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
186 days
Sunny Days / Year
208 days✓
42"
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis is a city in Indiana with a population of 887,642.
Read full Indianapolis guide →Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Indianapolis vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Indianapolis or Philadelphia?
Indiana has a 3.15% state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Indianapolis and Philadelphia?
Indianapolis gets 186 sunny days/year. Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Indianapolis: 62°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Indianapolis or Philadelphia?
Indianapolis. 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.