Is Charlotte or Philadelphia more affordable?
Charlotte has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Charlotte, NC vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Charlotte and Philadelphia.
2
Charlotte wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Philadelphia wins
NC
Charlotte
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
897,720
Population
1,603,797
$66,356✓
Median Income
-26.0%$49,127
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-24.1%$1,100✓
$380,000
Median Home Price
-44.7%$210,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
4.75%
State Income Tax
3.07%✓
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
213 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
208 days
44"
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte is a city in North Carolina with a population of 897,720.
Read full Charlotte guide →Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Charlotte vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Charlotte or Philadelphia?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Charlotte and Philadelphia?
Charlotte gets 213 sunny days/year. Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Charlotte: 71°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Charlotte or Philadelphia?
Charlotte. 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.