Quick answer
Overall prices in the Philadelphia, PA metro were 102.6 vs 97.3 in Charlotte, NC in 2024 (US = 100), so Philadelphia is 5.3% more expensive than Charlotte; housing rents differ by 16% (113.1 vs 97.6). A $75,000 income in Philadelphia buys about what $71,193 buys in Charlotte, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Philadelphia | Charlotte | Philadelphia vs Charlotte |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 102.6 | 97.3 | +5.3% |
| Goods | 96.8 | 96.6 | +0.3% |
| Housing (rents) | 113.1 | 97.6 | +15.9% |
| Utilities | 114.4 | 89.2 | +28.3% |
| Other services | 103.1 | 98.2 | +4.9% |
| All items, 2008 | 106.4 | 95.3 | +11.7% |
| $50,000 in Philadelphia equals in Charlotte | $47,462 | ||
| $100,000 in Philadelphia equals in Charlotte | $94,924 | ||
| $150,000 in Philadelphia equals in Charlotte | $142,385 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.