salaryAbout the sameBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Philadelphia to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,983
$1,814
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,622
$1,623
💵 Families earn per year
$84,017
$66,816
🔑 Buying a house
$334,100
$243,100
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
103.6
102.6
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,943
$2,003
⚡ Electric bill per month
$90
$112
👥 People living there
2,711,226
1,579,706
Commute to work
33.1 min
31.7 min
College degree
44.3%
35.4%
Own their home
46%
51.8%
Below poverty line
16.8%
21.4%
Unemployment
8%
8.1%
Bottom line
- Pick Chicago for cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, higher incomes, a more educated workforce and 2 more.
- Pick Philadelphia for lower rent, cheaper homes, shorter commutes.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Chicago | Philadelphia | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $103,380 | $74,860 | -28% in Philadelphia |
| Electrician | $102,350 | $74,590 | -27% in Philadelphia |
| Carpenter | $80,440 | $61,780 | -23% in Philadelphia |
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $31,200 | $36,570 | +17% in Philadelphia |
| HVAC Technician | $77,960 | $64,580 | -17% in Philadelphia |
| Police Officer | $107,810 | $89,580 | -17% in Philadelphia |
| Operations Manager | $109,390 | $121,630 | +11% in Philadelphia |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | $78,070 | $70,710 | -9% in Philadelphia |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chicago or Philadelphia cheaper to live in?
Chicago and Philadelphia cost about the same once rent and everyday costs are combined.
What salary do I need in Philadelphia to match $60,000 in Chicago?
About $59,397 a year gives the same standard of living in Philadelphia.
Where do people earn more, Chicago or Philadelphia?
The typical household earns $84,017 in Chicago and $66,816 in Philadelphia, 26% more in Chicago.