Is Boston or Philadelphia more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Philadelphia.
1
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Philadelphia wins
MA
Boston
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
672,814
Population
1,603,797
$81,744✓
Median Income
-39.9%$49,127
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-38.3%$1,100✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-65.6%$210,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
5.00%
State Income Tax
3.07%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
208 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Boston vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Philadelphia?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Philadelphia?
Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Philadelphia?
Boston. Philadelphia. 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.