Find Best Boston to Philadelphia

Philadelphia is about 25-30% cheaper than Boston, with housing being 35% less expensive. A $2,800 Boston apartment costs about $1,800-2,000 in comparable Philly neighborhoods. The savings are significant but not dramatic. Food, entertainment, and transportation costs are similar. It's a meaningful but not life-changing cost reduction.

Philly has similar East Coast grittiness but with more edge and less polish than Boston. It's more blue-collar, with passionate sports fans and straightforward attitudes. The city has real neighborhoods with strong identities like Boston but feels less precious about its history. Philly is authentic where Boston can feel performatively intellectual.

Philly's job market is strong but different. Healthcare (multiple hospital systems) and pharma are excellent. Finance exists but smaller than Boston. Biotech is growing but can't match Cambridge. Universities provide stability. Salaries are 15-20% lower but cost of living makes it even out. Proximity to NYC and DC adds opportunities.

Philly's food scene is underrated - beyond cheesesteaks, there's incredible diversity. Restaurant prices are 30% lower than Boston for similar quality. BYOB culture makes dining affordable. The Italian food rivals Boston's North End. Neighborhoods offer authentic ethnic cuisines. You'll eat better for less money, though seafood isn't as fresh as Boston's.

SEPTA is functional but not as comprehensive as Boston's T. The subway/elevated lines are older and grittier. Regional rail is extensive for suburbs. Buses fill gaps but are less reliable. Many neighborhoods are walkable like Boston. You can live car-free in Center City and nearby neighborhoods but might want a car for flexibility.