Quick answer
Philadelphia 1BR rent: $1,800/mo. Walk Score: 79/100. State tax: 3.07%. Pick your lifestyle below for a personalised breakdown.
PA · 2026
Is Philadelphia Good For You?
Philadelphia, PA evaluated for 7 different lifestyles — remote workers, families, retirees, young professionals, tech workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and first-time renters. Pick yours for a personalised cost-of-living breakdown.
1BR rent
$1,800/mo
Walk Score
79/100
State tax
3.07%
Median home
$280K
Choose Your Lifestyle
Is Philadelphia Good for Remote Workers?
Cost savings, walkability, and time-zone fit for remote roles
Is Philadelphia Good for Families?
School districts, home prices, and family quality of life
Is Philadelphia Good for Retirees?
State tax on retirement income, healthcare, and walkability
Is Philadelphia Good for Young Professionals?
Job market, nightlife, rent-to-salary ratio, and social scene
Is Philadelphia Good for Tech Workers?
Tech job market depth, salary vs. cost savings over SF/NYC
Is Philadelphia Good for Outdoor Enthusiasts?
Climate, trail access, and outdoor recreation proximity
Is Philadelphia Good for First-Time Renters?
What rent actually costs, red flags to avoid, and upfront budget
Philadelphia at a Glance
Philadelphia is the most affordable walkable big city in the US — median home price $280K with walk score 79 and SEPTA rail that reaches NYC in 90 minutes. The healthcare sector (Penn Medicine, Jefferson, Temple) is massive. The food scene has genuinely arrived. The city has real grit and high property crime in some areas, which depress prices and reward careful neighborhood selection.