The Cost of Living in Philadelphia: All You Should Know
Living in Philadelphia can be exciting and rewarding, with its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant energy. However, before deciding to move to this city, it is important to appreciate the cost of living and how it compares to other cities in the United States.
In this article, we will review the expenses associated with living in Philadelphia, including housing, transportation, food, and entertainment.
Housing
One of the largest expenses when living in Philadelphia is housing. According to data from Numbeo, the usual rate of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $1,600 per month, while outside the city center, it drops to around $1,250 per month.
The cost will multiply significantly if you are looking for a larger apartment or a house. For instance, a three-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around $3,200 monthly.
However, Philadelphia is still relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the United States. For example, the median cost of a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is around $2,800 monthly, while in San Francisco, it is around $3,500 per month.
Transportation
Another major expense when living in Philadelphia is transportation. If you own a car, you must factor in gas, insurance, and parking costs.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median cost of gas in Philadelphia is around $2.80 per gallon. Additionally, parking fees can add up quickly, especially if you live in the city center.
However, Philadelphia has a relatively good public transportation system, which can help reduce the cost of transportation. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) offers buses, trolleys, subways, and regional rail services throughout the city and surrounding suburbs.
A one-way fare costs $2.50, while a monthly pass costs $96. You may qualify for reduced prices if you are a student or senior citizen.
Food
Philadelphia is known for its delicious food, and plenty of options exist. However, eating out can be expensive, especially dining at upscale restaurants. According to Numbeo, the average meal cost for two people at a mid-range restaurant in Philadelphia is around $60.
If you want to conserve on food expenses, cooking at home can be a good option. The groceries in Philadelphia are relatively affordable, with a gallon of milk costing around $3.50, a loaf of bread around $2.50, and a dozen eggs around $2.70.
Entertainment
Living in Philadelphia offers plenty of opportunities for entertainment, including museums, theaters, and sporting events. However, these activities can be expensive, with tickets to popular attractions costing upwards of $20 per person.
If you are scouting for free or cheap entertainment options, plenty are available in Philadelphia. For example, numerous museums offer free admission on specific days of the week, and the city's parks and outdoor spaces are great for hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Philadelphia's living cost is relatively affordable compared to other big cities in the United States. Housing and transportation are the biggest expenses, but there are ways to cut these costs, such as using public transportation or living outside the city center.
Food and entertainment can also be expensive, but plenty of affordable options are available. If you are thinking of moving to Philadelphia, it is important to research and formulate a budget to ensure you can afford the cost of living.
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