Quick answer
Overall prices in the Philadelphia, PA metro were 102.6 vs 111.9 in San Diego, CA in 2024 (US = 100), so Philadelphia is 8.3% less expensive than San Diego; housing rents differ by 37% (113.1 vs 179.3). A $75,000 income in Philadelphia buys about what $81,825 buys in San Diego, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Philadelphia | San Diego | Philadelphia vs San Diego |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 102.6 | 111.9 | -8.3% |
| Goods | 96.8 | 108.0 | -10.3% |
| Housing (rents) | 113.1 | 179.3 | -36.9% |
| Utilities | 114.4 | 174.2 | -34.4% |
| Other services | 103.1 | 99.6 | +3.5% |
| All items, 2008 | 106.4 | 113.7 | -6.4% |
| $50,000 in Philadelphia equals in San Diego | $54,550 | ||
| $100,000 in Philadelphia equals in San Diego | $109,101 | ||
| $150,000 in Philadelphia equals in San Diego | $163,651 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.