Is Philadelphia or Richmond more affordable?
Philadelphia has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Richmond is $1,250/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Philadelphia, PA vs Richmond, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Philadelphia and Richmond.
4
Philadelphia wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Richmond wins
PA
Philadelphia
vs
VA
Richmond
Overview
1,603,797
Population
226,610
$49,127
Median Income
+5.8%$52,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+13.6%$1,250
$210,000✓
Median Home Price
+38.1%$290,000
27%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
3.07%✓
State Income Tax
5.75%
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
63°F
Avg High Temp
68°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
47°F
208 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
205 days
42"
Annual Rainfall
44"
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
Richmond, VA
Richmond is a city in Virginia with a population of 226,610.
Read full Richmond guide →Philadelphia vs Richmond — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Philadelphia or Richmond?
Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Philadelphia and Richmond?
Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Richmond gets 205 sunny days/year. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F. Avg high in Richmond: 68°F
Which city is better for families — Philadelphia or Richmond?
Philadelphia. Richmond. 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.