Is Philadelphia or Seattle more affordable?
Philadelphia has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Philadelphia, PA vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Philadelphia and Seattle.
3
Philadelphia wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
PA
Philadelphia
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
1,603,797
Population
726,054
$49,127
Median Income
+114.5%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+63.7%$1,801
$210,000✓
Median Home Price
+265.5%$767,500
27%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
3.07%
State Income Tax
None✓
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
63°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°F
208 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
42"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
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
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Philadelphia vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Philadelphia or Seattle?
Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Philadelphia and Seattle?
Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Philadelphia or Seattle?
Philadelphia. Seattle. 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.