Is Philadelphia or Houston more affordable?
Philadelphia has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Philadelphia, PA vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Philadelphia and Houston.
3
Philadelphia wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Houston wins
PA
Philadelphia
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
1,603,797
Population
2,304,580
$49,127
Median Income
+6.5%$52,338✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+13.6%$1,250
$210,000✓
Median Home Price
+26.2%$265,000
27%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
3.07%
State Income Tax
None✓
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
63°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
208 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
42"
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Philadelphia vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Philadelphia or Houston?
Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Philadelphia and Houston?
Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Philadelphia or Houston?
Philadelphia. Houston. 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.