Dallas vs Philadelphia: cost of living compared
Philadelphia is 7% more expensive than Dallas overall. Dallas (TX) has no state income tax; PA tops out around 3.07%.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Overall, the cost of living is somewhat higher in Philadelphia compared to Dallas. While some expenses are similar, the difference is primarily driven by higher costs for transportation, food, and healthcare in the Northeastern city. Dallas generally offers a more budget-friendly environment for daily expenditures, though housing costs present a more nuanced picture depending on whether you plan to buy or rent.
Housing
When it comes to housing, buying a home is generally more affordable in Philadelphia, with median prices noticeably lower than in Dallas. However, renting a one-bedroom apartment tends to be somewhat more expensive in Philadelphia. Dallas, a sprawling metro, often features newer, larger homes, while Philadelphia's housing stock includes many historic rowhouses. Property taxes can also vary significantly between these distinct markets.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses show a clear divergence. Philadelphia residents face higher costs for transportation, food, and healthcare compared to Dallas. A significant factor is Pennsylvania's state income tax, which is absent in Texas, impacting take-home pay. Utilities are roughly similar in both metros, but the combined effect of other categories means everyday spending is generally more economical in Dallas.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, lifestyle differences are notable. Dallas offers a warm, humid climate with hot summers and mild winters, while Philadelphia experiences four distinct seasons, including colder winters and humid summers. Dallas is a car-centric city, though public transit exists, whereas Philadelphia boasts a more established and extensive public transportation network, making it easier to get around without a car. Philadelphia also tends to be denser with a longer history.
Bottom line
For those considering a move, Dallas generally offers a more affordable overall cost of living, primarily due to the absence of state income tax and lower everyday expenses like transportation and groceries. While buying a home might be cheaper in Philadelphia, higher rents and other daily costs could offset those savings. A household's budget will stretch further in Dallas, particularly for those who prioritize lower taxes and general expenditures.
| Measure | Dallas, TX | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 105 | 112 |
| Housing index | 99 | 91 |
| Transportation index | 104 | 120 |
| Food index | 98 | 105 |
| Healthcare index | 102 | 108 |
| Utilities index | 105 | 105 |
| Misc index | 98 | 102 |
| Median home price | $358,000 | $298,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,450/mo | $1,550/mo |
| Average commute | 29 min | 34 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Philadelphia home with the True Cost Calculator.