Let the numbers do the talking.
Philadelphia, PA vs Pittsburgh, PA
Philadelphia, PA vs Pittsburgh, PA: What the data shows
Philadelphia, PA is in Philadelphia, PA while Pittsburgh, PA is in Pittsburgh, PA — both in the same state. On home prices, Pittsburgh, PA is the more affordable option at $281,500 median — $360,300 less than Philadelphia, PA's $641,800. WYLT rates Philadelphia, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Pittsburgh, PA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Philadelphia, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Pittsburgh, PA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Philadelphia, PA has Low flood risk and Pittsburgh, PA has Low flood risk.
Philadelphia, PA is the more walkable neighborhood. Philadelphia, PA scores 41/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Pittsburgh, PA's 25/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Philadelphia, PA has the higher school rating — Philadelphia, PA rates 6.8/10 and Pittsburgh, PA rates 6.6/10.
| Category | Philadelphia, PA | Pittsburgh, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $642K | $282K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $100K ✓ Higher income | $65K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 41/100 ✓ More walkable | 25/100 |
| Transit Score | 24/100 | 28/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 24 min | 13 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.6/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesHome buyersRemote workers | Young professionalsRemote workersFirst‑time home buyers |
Bottom line
If you're a family with a moderate income, Philadelphia's 641,800 median home price may be a higher entry point, but if you're a young professional or remote worker, Pittsburgh might offer a more affordable and amenity-rich area with easy downtown access. Ultimately, if you prioritize schools and a quieter environment, Philadelphia might be a better fit, while if you prefer nightlife and a central location, Pittsburgh could be the better choice.
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