When it comes to the cost of living and lifestyle, Philadelphia and Los Angeles are two very different cities. The cost of living in Los Angeles is much higher than in Philadelphia. In addition, the cost of food, transportation, and utilities is also higher in Los Angeles.
However, Los Angeles also enjoys the glamor of being a West Coast city with better weather, great nearby beaches, and the glamorous Hollywood culture. For people who enjoy beach weather, Los Angeles is better – if you can afford it! For people who like an East Coast atmosphere, Philadelphia is your quintessential East Coast city.
Who Would Like Living in Los Angeles?
Warm Weather Wendy
Los Angeles has great weather throughout the year, with even winters being mild and comfortable.
Fashinable Frankie
Los Angeles is a city that has a stronger emphasis on glamor and status than many others in the nation. The Hollywood glam culture is still strong.
Who Would Like Living in Philadelphia?
History Buff Bill
Philadelphia is one of the oldest cities in the US with some great historical landmarks and stories of the founding of the nation.
All Season Amy
If you need to experience all four seasons to be satisfied, Philadelphia is the city for you. It’s got clear and distinct seasons unlike Los Angeles.
Living in Philadelphia vs Los Angeles
1. Cost of Living in Philadelphia vs Los Angeles
| Los Angeles | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Ranking | 12th Most Expensive City | 16th Most Expensive City |
| Average Rent (1 bed apt) | $2,320.26 | $1,747.51 |
| State Tax Burden | 8.46% | 9.48% |
The cost of living in Los Angeles is higher than the cost of living in Philadelphia.
Philadelphia is the 16th most expensive city in the US while Los Angeles is the 12th most expensive city in the US. Rent Prices in Philadelphia are 33.56% lower than in Los Angeles.
The average rent in Los Angeles is $2,320.26 while in Philadelphia the average rent is $1,747.51 for a 1-bedroom apartment. Comparing the state’ ‘tax burdens, California (Los Angeles) has a higher state tax burden of 9.48% while Pennsylvania’s (Philadelphia) is lower with a state tax burden of 8.46%.
So, if you looking to move to a cheaper area, Philadelphia will win. However, in general, neither city is particularly affordable. For more affordable cities, try Austin or Phoenix.
2. Size Comparison
| Los Angeles | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,898,747 | 1,603,737 |
The City of Philadelphia has a population of 1,603,737 while the population in LA is 3,898,747 people. In other words, LA is a much larger metropolis than Philadelphia.
LA feels large, too, as it’s a sprawling metropolis with suburbs stretching out in all directions. Philadelphia, meanwhile, is a smaller city that feels like the little brother to New York, which is nearby. LA, on the other hand, is the largest city on the West Coast and has that big-city clout.
3. Weather Differences
| Temperature | Los Angeles | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-Summer Average (F) | 92.8 | 77.6 |
| Mid-Winter Average (F) | 54.2 | 32.3 |
| Average Uearly Snowfall (Inches) | 0 | 13.1 |
Overall, LA has much more pleasant and mild year-round weather than Philadelphia. It is known to be a place that stays warm well into winter while never getting too hot in summer due to its proximity to the ocean.
It has Mediterranean-like weather with warm, dry summers and mild winters.
Philadelphia, on the other hand, experiences all four seasons, including some freezing winter temperatures.
The average high temperature in Philadelphia in July is 77.6 degrees Fahrenheit and the average low temperature in January is 32.3 while the average high temperature in Los Angeles in July is 92.8 degrees Fahrenheit and the average low is 54.2 degrees Fahrenheit.
The high temperatures in Los Angeles are usually comfortable, while the high temperatures in Philadelphia can be quite hot. The lows in Los Angeles are pretty mild, while the lows in Philadelphia can be a bit uncomfortable because they are much colder than Los Angeles.
So, if you are looking for a place with comfortable high temperatures and mild lows, Los Angeles would be the better option.
4. Culture
Philadelphia and Los Angeles are two very different cities. Philadelphia is older, smaller, and more blue-collar, while Los Angeles is younger, larger, and more urban.
Philadelphians are known for being tough, blunt, and hardworking. They have a strong sense of community and are proud of their history. Los Angelenos, on the other hand, are known for being glamorous and optimistic. They are more individualistic and focused on their own happiness.
Despite their differences, both cities have a lot to offer. Philadelphia is home to some of the best restaurants and museums in the country, while Los Angeles is famous for its movie industry and beaches.
If you’re looking for a city with a strong sense of community and history, Philadelphia is a perfect choice. If you’re looking for a city with great food and entertainment options, Los Angeles is the best option.
5. Traffic and Transit
| Los Angeles | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Traffic Congestion Ranking | 2nd Worst in USA | 10th Worst in USA |
Los Angeles has some of the worst traffic congestion in the world. The average commuter in L.A. spends over 100 hours a year stuck in traffic.
The percentage of transit riders in Los Angeles who ride public transit, including Light Rail, Subway, Train, Bus & Cable Car for more than 2 hours every day is 56%.
The traffic in Philadelphia is ranked as the 10th worst in the US while the traffic in Los Angeles is ranked as the 2nd worst in the US.
In Philadelphia, things are better than LA, but not great. The average commuter spends about 30 hours a year in traffic. But public transportation is much more popular, with about 37.3% of residents using it to get to work.
Philadelphia has fewer traffic jams than Los Angeles making it easier to get around by car. Los Angeles is a much larger city than Philadelphia so there are more people on the roads. This means more people more traffic jams.
So, if you’re looking for a city with better traffic and public transportation, Philadelphia is the better choice.
6. Economy and Job Opportunities
Philadelphia is a city with a strong economy and job opportunities. Major sectors of the Philadelphia economy include finance, insurance, real estate, health care, and education. The city is also home to many large corporations, including Comcast, Aramark, and Lincoln Financial Group. There are also a number of large hospitals, universities, and research institutions in the city.
Philadelphia is home to the world-famous Philadelphia Orchestra, Pennsylvania Opera Company, National Academy of Sciences, Franklin Institute Science Museum, Independence Hall, and National Constitution Centre.
Los Angeles is a city that has something to offer everyone. The city is home to a thriving economy and job opportunities that are diverse and plentiful. Residents of Los Angeles enjoy a high quality of life, thanks to the city’s strong economy and abundance of job opportunities. The city is also home to a wide variety of cultural attractions that draw residents and visitors alike.
7. Sports Franchises
| Los Angeles | Philadelphia |
|---|---|
| Rams (Football) | 76ers (Basketball) |
| Lakers (Basketball) | Eagles (Football) |
| Chargers (Football) | Flyers (Ice Hockey) |
| Dodgers (Baseball) | Phillies (Baseball) |
| Kings (Ice Hockey) | Philadelphia Union (Soccer) |
| Clippers (Basketball) | |
| LAFC (Soccer) | |
| LA Galaxy (Soccer) |
Both LA and Philly have great sports teams and traditions.
When it comes to sports franchises, Philadelphia and Los Angeles are two cities that come to mind. The Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Lakers are two of the most iconic teams in the country. They have both won multiple championships and have a large fan base. However, when it comes to comparing the two cities, which one is better?
Philadelphia is known for its passionate fans. They are always cheering on their team and are always willing to support them. In fact, some of the fans in Philadelphia have even been accused of being a little too enthusiastic. However, this does not compare to the Lakers.
Los Angeles is known for its loyal fans and it’s not unusual to see large groups of fans outside Staples Centre cheering on their team.
Philadelphia and Los Angeles are two cities with a rich sports history. While Philadelphia is home to some of the most historic franchises in all the sports, Los Angeles has more recent champions. So, if you looking for a city with a long-standing sports history, then you might want to consider the city of Philadelphia. If you are looking for more recent championships, then you might want to choose Los Angeles. In addition, there is also a large rivalry between both cities when it comes to sports.
8. Crime Rates
The crime rate in Philadelphia is higher than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 909 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 3,097 per 100,000 residents.
In Los Angeles, the crime rate is lower than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 722 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 2,148 per 100,000 residents. In Los Angeles, there is an average rate of gun ownership with 28.3% of households owning at least one firearm while 40.7% of people in Philadelphia own guns.
So, if you are looking for a city with a lower crime rate, Los Angeles is statistically the place for you.
9. Education Systems
| Los Angeles | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| High School Graduation Rate | 74.4% | 81.20% |
| Residents with a Bachelor’s Degree | 32.5% | 32% |
Both Philadelphia and Los Angeles have decent education systems that rank above the national average.
Philadelphia is home to a number of different public and private schools. Philadelphia is home to the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, Temple University, La Salle University, SEPTA, and many others. Los Angeles is home to the University of Southern California, UCLA, USC, Cal State Los Angeles, and many others.
Philadelphia has a higher than average high school graduation rate of 81.20%, while Los Angeles has a lower than average high school graduation rate of 74.4%.
Philadelphia also has a higher than national average percentage of residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher, at 32%. But Los Angeles also has a higher than average percentage of residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher, at 32.5%.
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Conclusion
Both cities are filled with amazing architecture, interesting history, and a diverse population. However, they each have their own unique qualities that make them special.
Philadelphia is the birthplace of America and is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the country, such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. It also has a thriving arts scene and a strong sense of community.
Philadelphia and Los Angeles are two of the most populated cities in the United States. Both cities offer a lot to their residents and visitors, but they are very different. Philadelphia is known for its history, art, and culture, while Los Angeles is known for its beaches, movie industry, and warm weather.
Jason Dempsey is the CEO and Co-Founder of Home City Living. After abandoning the corporate world in order to indulge his wanderlust, Jason founded Home City Living with his partner Rose to create the premier source of travel information and inside local knowledge on the web to help other would-be global explorers and seekers learn to spread their wings and fly.
