Quick answer
Overall prices in the Washington, DC metro were 108.9 vs 102.6 in Philadelphia, PA in 2024 (US = 100), so Washington is 6.2% more expensive than Philadelphia; housing rents differ by 34% (151.1 vs 113.1). A $75,000 income in Washington buys about what $70,640 buys in Philadelphia, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Washington | Philadelphia | Washington vs Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 108.9 | 102.6 | +6.2% |
| Goods | 104.8 | 96.8 | +8.3% |
| Housing (rents) | 151.1 | 113.1 | +33.6% |
| Utilities | 106.7 | 114.4 | -6.7% |
| Other services | 102.3 | 103.1 | -0.7% |
| All items, 2008 | 114.8 | 106.4 | +7.8% |
| $50,000 in Washington equals in Philadelphia | $47,093 | ||
| $100,000 in Washington equals in Philadelphia | $94,186 | ||
| $150,000 in Washington equals in Philadelphia | $141,280 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.