Is Detroit or Philadelphia more affordable?
Detroit has a median rent of $800/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Detroit is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Detroit, MI vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Detroit and Philadelphia.
2
Detroit wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Philadelphia wins
MI
Detroit
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
672,662
Population
1,603,797
$33,381
Median Income
+47.2%$49,127✓
Cost of Living
$800✓
Median Rent / mo
+37.5%$1,100
$85,000✓
Median Home Price
+147.1%$210,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
4.25%
State Income Tax
3.07%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
58°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
40°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
183 days
Sunny Days / Year
208 days✓
34"
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Detroit, MI
Detroit is a city in Michigan with a population of 672,662.
Read full Detroit guide →Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Detroit vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Detroit or Philadelphia?
Michigan has a 4.25% state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Detroit and Philadelphia?
Detroit gets 183 sunny days/year. Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Detroit: 58°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Detroit or Philadelphia?
Detroit. 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.