Quick answer
Overall prices in the Philadelphia, PA metro were 102.6 vs 108.3 in Boston, MA in 2024 (US = 100), so Philadelphia is 5.3% less expensive than Boston; housing rents differ by 24% (113.1 vs 148.4). A $75,000 income in Philadelphia buys about what $79,177 buys in Boston, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Philadelphia | Boston | Philadelphia vs Boston |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 102.6 | 108.3 | -5.3% |
| Goods | 96.8 | 99.7 | -2.8% |
| Housing (rents) | 113.1 | 148.4 | -23.8% |
| Utilities | 114.4 | 148.8 | -23.1% |
| Other services | 103.1 | 103.6 | -0.5% |
| All items, 2008 | 106.4 | 107.7 | -1.2% |
| $50,000 in Philadelphia equals in Boston | $52,785 | ||
| $100,000 in Philadelphia equals in Boston | $105,570 | ||
| $150,000 in Philadelphia equals in Boston | $158,355 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.