Is Philadelphia or Raleigh more affordable?
Philadelphia has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Philadelphia, PA vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Philadelphia and Raleigh.
3
Philadelphia wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Raleigh wins
PA
Philadelphia
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
1,603,797
Population
467,665
$49,127
Median Income
+47.7%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+31.8%$1,450
$210,000✓
Median Home Price
+90.5%$400,000
27%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
3.07%✓
State Income Tax
4.75%
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
63°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
208 days
Sunny Days / Year
213 days✓
42"
Annual Rainfall
46"
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
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Philadelphia vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Philadelphia or Raleigh?
Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Philadelphia and Raleigh?
Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Philadelphia or Raleigh?
Philadelphia. Raleigh. 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.