Is Philadelphia or Chicago more affordable?
Philadelphia has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Philadelphia, PA vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Philadelphia and Chicago.
4
Philadelphia wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Chicago wins
PA
Philadelphia
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
1,603,797
Population
2,742,119
$49,127
Median Income
+33.9%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+9.9%$1,209
$210,000✓
Median Home Price
+32.2%$277,600
27%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
3.07%✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
63°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°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
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Philadelphia vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Philadelphia or Chicago?
Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Philadelphia and Chicago?
Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Philadelphia or Chicago?
Philadelphia. Chicago. 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.