Is Philadelphia or San Diego more affordable?
Philadelphia has a median rent of $1,100/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Philadelphia, PA vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Philadelphia and San Diego.
3
Philadelphia wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Diego wins
PA
Philadelphia
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
1,603,797
Population
1,386,932
$49,127
Median Income
+62.2%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+90.9%$2,100
$210,000✓
Median Home Price
+271.4%$780,000
27%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
3.07%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
63°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
208 days
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
42"
Annual Rainfall
12"
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
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Philadelphia vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Philadelphia or San Diego?
Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Philadelphia and San Diego?
Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Philadelphia or San Diego?
Philadelphia. San Diego. 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.