Is Philadelphia or Phoenix more affordable?
Philadelphia has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Philadelphia, PA vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Philadelphia and Phoenix.
2
Philadelphia wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Phoenix wins
PA
Philadelphia
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
1,603,797
Population
1,608,139
$49,127
Median Income
+26.2%$62,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+50.0%$1,650
$210,000✓
Median Home Price
+100.0%$420,000
27%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
3.07%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
63°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
208 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
42"
Annual Rainfall
8"
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
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Philadelphia vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Philadelphia or Phoenix?
Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Philadelphia and Phoenix?
Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Philadelphia or Phoenix?
Philadelphia. Phoenix. 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.