Is Philadelphia or San Jose more affordable?
Philadelphia has a median rent of $1,100/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Philadelphia, PA vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Philadelphia and San Jose.
3
Philadelphia wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Jose wins
PA
Philadelphia
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
1,603,797
Population
1,013,240
$49,127
Median Income
+139.1%$117,474✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+127.3%$2,500
$210,000✓
Median Home Price
+423.8%$1,100,000
27%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
3.07%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
63°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
208 days
Sunny Days / Year
257 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
San Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →Philadelphia vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Philadelphia or San Jose?
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 San Jose?
Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Philadelphia or San Jose?
Philadelphia. San Jose. 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.