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Chester, PA vs Philadelphia, PA
Chester, PA vs Philadelphia, PA: What the data shows
Chester, PA is in Chester, PA while Philadelphia, PA is in Philadelphia, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Chester, PA is the more affordable option at $80,100 median — $55,200 less than Philadelphia, PA's $135,300. WYLT rates Chester, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Philadelphia, PA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Chester, PA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Chester, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Philadelphia, PA has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Chester, PA has Low flood risk and Philadelphia, PA has Low flood risk.
Chester, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Chester, PA scores 46/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Philadelphia, PA's 44/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Philadelphia, PA has the higher school rating — Chester, PA rates 6.1/10 and Philadelphia, PA rates 6.7/10.
| Category | Chester, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $80K ✓ Lower price | $135K |
| Median Rent | $995 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $38K | $42K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 46/100 ✓ More walkable | 44/100 |
| Transit Score | 10/100 | 49/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 78/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | 12 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.1/10 | 6.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | First‑time buyersRenters looking for low cost of entryRemote workers who don’t mind a car | studentsbudget buyersbike commuters |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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