Is Houston or Philadelphia more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Philadelphia.
2
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Philadelphia wins
TX
Houston
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
2,304,580
Population
1,603,797
$52,338✓
Median Income
-6.1%$49,127
Cost of Living
$1,250
Median Rent / mo
-12.0%$1,100✓
$265,000
Median Home Price
-20.8%$210,000✓
29%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
3.07%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
208 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Houston vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Philadelphia?
Texas has no state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Houston and Philadelphia?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Philadelphia?
Houston. 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.