Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
Philadelphia is 9% more affordable than Tacoma. A $75,000 salary in Tacoma is equivalent to $67,949 in Philadelphia.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Pennsylvania salaries · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Philadelphia has a housing index of 107 while Tacoma sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Philadelphia costs $240,000 compared to $400,000 in Tacoma, a difference of $160,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Philadelphia versus $1,600 in Tacoma.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Philadelphia scores 104 while Tacoma scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Philadelphia (101) are lower than Tacoma (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Philadelphia is $49,127 compared to $58,974 in Tacoma. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Philadelphia.
Amazon affiliate links