Is Philadelphia or Los Angeles more affordable?
Philadelphia has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Los Angeles is $1,852/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Philadelphia, PA vs Los Angeles, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Philadelphia and Los Angeles.
3
Philadelphia wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Los Angeles wins
PA
Philadelphia
vs
CA
Los Angeles
Overview
1,603,797
Population
3,898,747
$49,127
Median Income
+40.7%$69,144✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+68.4%$1,852
$210,000✓
Median Home Price
+257.1%$750,000
27%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
3.07%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.50%
Climate & Weather
63°F
Avg High Temp
75°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
58°F
208 days
Sunny Days / Year
284 days✓
42"
Annual Rainfall
15"
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
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles guide →Philadelphia vs Los Angeles — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Philadelphia or Los Angeles?
Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Philadelphia and Los Angeles?
Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F
Which city is better for families — Philadelphia or Los Angeles?
Philadelphia. Los Angeles. 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.