Moving from Atlanta to Philadelphia (2026)

Philadelphia has a COL index of 107 vs 110 for Atlanta (100 = US average). You'd pay about 3% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$50/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
110 โ†’ 107
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900 โ†’ $2,000
per month
State tax
5.5% โ†’ 3.1%
income tax
COL difference
110 โ†’ 107
3% cheaper

Salary needed in Philadelphia to match your Atlanta lifestyle

Based on the 3% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in AtlantaEquivalent in Philadelphia
$40K$38,909
$50K$48,636
$60K$58,364
$75K$72,955
$80K$77,818
$100K$97,273
$120K$116,727
$150K$145,909

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$116/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Atlanta vs Philadelphia

ExpenseAtlantaPhiladelphia
Monthly take-home$4,397$4,547
1BR rent$1,900$2,000
Groceries$376$391
Transport$95$96
Utilities$165$160
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$1,801$1,835

Frequently asked questions

Is Philadelphia cheaper than Atlanta?

Yes. Philadelphia has a cost of living index of 107 vs 110 for Atlanta (100 = US average). That's about 3% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Atlanta to Philadelphia?

On a $75K salary, moving from Atlanta to Philadelphia saves roughly $50/month on core expenses. That's ~$600/year.

What salary do I need in Philadelphia to match my Atlanta lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Atlanta, you'd need roughly $72,955/year in Philadelphia. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only