đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Plymouth and Philadelphia
Head-to-Head Analysis
Plymouth vs Philadelphia
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Plymouth | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $130,793 | $60,302 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4% | 4.7% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $495,000 | $270,375 |
| Price per SqFt | $203 | $204 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,201 | $1,451 |
| Housing Cost Index | 110.3 | 117.8 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 104.8 | 100.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $2.67 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 280.3 | 726.5 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 45.65% | 35.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 30 | 40 |
AI Verdict: The Bottom Line
Both cities have a similar cost of living (within 5%).
You could earn significantly more in Plymouth (+117% median income).
Rent is much more affordable in Plymouth (17% lower).
Plymouth has a significantly lower violent crime rate (61% lower).
Analysis based on current data snapshot. Individual results may vary.
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Philadelphia vs. Plymouth: The East Coast Showdown You Didn’t Know You Needed
Let’s cut through the noise. You’re trying to decide between Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Plymouth, Massachusetts. It’s a classic clash of the titans: the gritty, historic big city versus the quaint, coastal town. But this isn’t just about vibes—it’s about where your life, your wallet, and your sanity will land.
I’ve crunched the numbers, walked the streets (virtually and literally), and talked to folks in both places. The verdict? It’s not even close for some, but for others, it’s a dead heat. Let’s dive in.
The Vibe Check: Grit vs. Gratitude
Philadelphia is the ultimate urban beast. It’s the City of Brotherly Love, but don’t let the nickname fool you—it’s got an edge. Think world-class museums, a legendary food scene (cheesesteaks, anyone?), and a subway that runs 24/7. The energy is palpable; it’s a city that feels lived-in, historic, and unapologetically real. You’re rubbing shoulders with students, artists, and professionals in a dense, walkable core.
Plymouth is the postcard. It’s the town where the Pilgrims landed, and it wears that history with pride. The vibe is laid-back, maritime, and deeply family-oriented. It’s not a city; it’s a community. Life revolves around the harbor, the waterfront parks, and the Main Street shops. It’s quieter, slower, and feels like a permanent vacation for those who love the ocean air.
Who’s it for?
- Philly is for the hustlers, the culture vultures, the urbanites who want everything at their doorstep and thrive on energy. It’s for singles, young professionals, and families who want city schools and diversity.
- Plymouth is for those seeking a slower pace, coastal living, and a tight-knit community. It’s for families who prioritize safety and space, and retirees who want a scenic, walkable town with history.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Stretch Further?
This is where the rubber meets the road. You might earn more in Plymouth, but does it go further? Let’s break down the Purchasing Power.
Salary Wars:
- Philadelphia has a Median Income of $60,302. On the surface, it’s lower, but the cost of living is significantly lower than many major metros.
- Plymouth boasts a Median Income of $130,793—more than double Philly’s. This suggests a wealthier, more affluent population. However, with a Median Home Price of $495,000, the bar for entry is high.
The Sticker Shock Table:
| Category | Philadelphia | Plymouth | The Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | $1,451 | $1,201 | Plymouth wins. Surprisingly, rent is lower here. But this can be deceiving (see housing market). |
| Housing Index | 117.8 | 110.3 | Plymouth wins (barely). Both are ~10-18% above the national average, but Plymouth edges it out. |
| Utilities | Moderate (Older housing stock) | High (Winter heating costs) | It’s a draw. Philly’s older homes can be drafty; Plymouth’s brutal winters spike heating bills. |
| Groceries | Slightly below avg | Slightly above avg | Philly wins. Urban density creates more competition and lower prices. |
The Purchasing Power Verdict:
If you earn $100,000 in Philadelphia, your money goes significantly further. The lower housing costs and cheaper daily expenses mean you can live comfortably in a nice neighborhood, save aggressively, and still enjoy the city. In Plymouth, a $100,000 salary feels more like a $70,000 salary in Philly after you factor in the higher home prices, property taxes (Massachusetts has high property taxes), and general cost of goods. Philly is the clear winner for getting more bang for your buck.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
This is the biggest financial decision you’ll make, and the markets are worlds apart.
Philadelphia:
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market? It’s a balanced market leaning toward buyers in many neighborhoods. Inventory is decent, and while prices have risen, they haven’t exploded like in other major cities.
- Renting vs. Buying: Renting is incredibly viable. You can find a great 1BR for $1,451. Buying is an attractive option with a median home price of $270,375. You can still find row homes in up-and-coming areas for under $300k. It’s one of the few major cities where homeownership feels achievable for the middle class.
Plymouth:
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market? It’s a fierce Seller’s Market. Demand is sky-high from Boston commuters, remote workers, and families wanting that coastal lifestyle. Inventory is low, and bidding wars are common.
- Renting vs. Buying: Renting is tricky. While the median rent of $1,201 looks good, availability is scarce. Most rental stock is limited. Buying is the primary path, but with a median home price of $495,000, you’re looking at a significant down payment and a competitive market. You’re paying a premium for the location and lifestyle.
Verdict: For affordability and accessibility, Philadelphia wins. You can rent or buy without fighting tooth and nail. Plymouth’s market is tough and expensive, especially for newcomers.
The Dealbreakers: Life’s Little (and Big) Annoyances
Traffic & Commute:
- Philly: The Schuylkill Expressway and I-95 are legendary nightmares. Traffic is constant. However, public transit (SEPTA) is robust. If you live and work in the city, you can avoid a car altogether. Commuting to the suburbs is manageable.
- Plymouth: Traffic is mostly summer tourist congestion. The big commute is to Boston. If you work in the city, that’s a 1-1.5 hour drive each way via Route 3, which is brutal. It’s a car-dependent town; you need a vehicle for daily life.
Weather:
- Philly: The average temp is 52.0°F. It’s a four-season city: hot, humid summers (90°F+), beautiful falls, cold winters with snow, and pleasant springs. Humidity is a factor.
- Plymouth: The average temp is a frigid 16.0°F. Winters are long, harsh, and snowy. Summers are idyllic but short. You’ll deal with nor’easters, coastal flooding, and freezing temps for months. It’s not for the weather-sensitive.
Crime & Safety:
Let’s be honest. Philly’s violent crime rate is 726.5/100k. This is high for a major city. Safety is hyper-local; some neighborhoods are incredibly safe, while others have serious issues. You must research areas meticulously.
Plymouth’s violent crime rate is 280.3/100k. This is significantly lower than the national average and a fraction of Philly’s. It’s a safe, family-oriented community where you feel comfortable walking at night.
The Dealbreaker Verdict: If safety is your #1 priority, Plymouth is the undisputed winner. If you can’t stand brutal winters and long commutes, Philly is your choice.
The Final Verdict: Who Packs Their Bags for Which City?
This isn’t about a single winner; it’s about matching the city to your life stage and priorities.
🏆 Winner for Families: Plymouth
- Why: The safety stats are undeniable. The excellent public schools, community-focused lifestyle, and outdoor activities (beaches, parks) are perfect for raising kids. The higher income in the area also means more resources for families. You’re buying into a community, not just a house.
🏆 Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Philadelphia
- Why: It’s not even a contest. The energy, the dating scene, the networking opportunities, the cultural events, and the affordability are unmatched. You can build a career, social life, and future without the financial strain of Plymouth’s housing market. Plus, you can ditch your car.
🏆 Winner for Retirees: Plymouth
- Why: For retirees with a nest egg, Plymouth is a dream. The safety, the walkable downtown, the scenic beauty, and the slower pace are ideal. If you can afford the home prices, it offers a high quality of life in a beautiful setting. Philly’s energy can be overwhelming, and navigating the city in winter is challenging.
At a Glance: Pros & Cons
Philadelphia Pros & Cons
âś… Pros:
- Affordability: One of the most affordable major U.S. cities.
- Culture & Food: World-class museums, history, and a legendary food scene.
- Walkability & Transit: Car-optional in many neighborhoods.
- Job Market: Diverse economy in healthcare, education, and tech.
- Vibrancy: Always something to do.
❌ Cons:
- Safety: Crime is a real concern and varies drastically by neighborhood.
- Traffic: Can be gridlock nightmare.
- Taxes: Pennsylvania has a flat income tax (3.07%) but high property and sales taxes in the city.
- Weather: Humid summers and cold, snowy winters.
Plymouth Pros & Cons
âś… Pros:
- Safety: Very low crime rates.
- Natural Beauty: Coastal living, beaches, and historic charm.
- Community: Tight-knit, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Excellent Schools: Top-rated public school system.
- Quality of Life: Clean, scenic, and relaxed.
❌ Cons:
- Cost of Living: High home prices and property taxes.
- Commute: Brutal if you work in Boston.
- Weather: Harsh, long winters with snow and nor’easters.
- Limited Diversity: Less urban, more homogenous population.
- Car-Dependent: Public transit is minimal.
The Bottom Line: Choose Philadelphia if you’re chasing career opportunities, urban culture, and financial flexibility. Choose Plymouth if you’re prioritizing safety, family life, and coastal beauty and have the budget to match. The data doesn’t lie: your lifestyle and wallet will dictate the right choice.
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