Derry CDP vs Philadelphia

Category / Metric	Derry CDP	Philadelphia
Financial Overview
Median Income	$88,901	$60,302
Unemployment Rate	3%	4.7%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$356,700	$270,375
Price per SqFt	$null	$204
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$1,506	$1,451
Housing Cost Index	148.2	117.8
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	104.7	100.3
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$3.40
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	146.4	726.5
Bachelor's Degree+	34%	35.7%
Air Quality (AQI)	43	40

Philadelphia vs. Derry CDP: The Ultimate East Coast Showdown

Alright, let’s cut through the noise. You’re looking at two very different slices of the American experience. On one side, you’ve got Philadelphia—the gritty, historic, big-city heavyweight of the Northeast Corridor. On the other, Derry CDP (New Hampshire)—the quiet, affluent, suburban enclave tucked into the southern tier of the Granite State.

This isn’t just about picking a dot on a map. It’s about choosing a lifestyle. Are you chasing the energy of a metropolis, or the tranquility of a tight-knit community? Let’s break it down, stat by stat, vibe by vibe.

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The Vibe Check: Big City Grit vs. Suburban Serenity

Philadelphia is a city with a chip on its shoulder and a deep soul. It’s the underdog of the East Coast—overshadowed by NYC and D.C. but packing a punch with world-class history, a booming food scene, and a fiercely loyal population. The vibe here is laid-back but electric. You’ll find cheesesteak joints next to James Beard award winners, rowhouses next to high-rises, and a diverse energy that feels authentic and unpretentious. It’s a city for the hustlers, the history buffs, and anyone who wants a major metro experience without the astronomical price tag of its neighbors.

Derry CDP is the picture of New England suburban life. We’re talking about a population of just 21,668—that’s smaller than a single high school football stadium’s capacity. The vibe here is quiet, orderly, and family-focused. It’s a place where people know their neighbors, the schools are excellent, and the default mode is "peace and quiet." This is a haven for those looking to escape the chaos, raise a family in a safe environment, and enjoy a slower, more predictable pace of life.

Who’s it for?

• Philadelphia: Young professionals, artists, foodies, and anyone who craves the energy, diversity, and amenities of a world-class city.
• Derry CDP: Families, retirees, and professionals who prioritize safety, community, and top-tier schools over nightlife and urban grit.

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The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Go Further?

Let’s get straight to the bottom line: your paycheck. It’s not just about what you earn, but what you can buy with it. This is the classic "Purchasing Power" battle.

First, the raw numbers. Derry’s median income is significantly higher—$88,901 compared to Philadelphia’s $60,302. That’s a gap of over $28,000. But does that higher income translate to a better standard of living, or is it gobbled up by costs?

Here’s the head-to-head on daily expenses:

Expense Category	Philadelphia	Derry CDP	The Takeaway
Rent (1BR)	$1,451	$1,506	Derry is slightly more expensive, but the difference is negligible. Sticker shock is similar.
Housing Index	117.8	148.2	This is the big one. Derry’s housing is 25% more expensive than the national average, while Philly is only 17.8% above.
Utilities	(Assumed Higher)	(Assumed Lower)	Philly’s older housing stock and dense urban grid often mean higher heating/cooling costs. Derry’s newer homes and milder climate can be more efficient.
Groceries	(Slightly Higher)	(Slightly Lower)	Urban food costs are always a premium, but Philly’s diverse markets offer good deals. Derry’s suburban sprawl likely has more big-box grocery discounts.

Salary Wars & The Tax Twist:
Here’s where it gets interesting. New Hampshire has NO state income tax. Pennsylvania has a flat 3.07% income tax. Let’s do the math on that $100k salary:

• Philly Take-Home: ~$74,500 (after federal + 3.07% state tax)
• Derry Take-Home: ~$76,500 (after federal tax only)

That’s an extra $2,000 per year in your pocket in Derry, just from income tax. However, New Hampshire has high property taxes (often 2-3x PA's) and a 5% tax on interest/dividends. The real winner depends on your asset structure.

The Verdict on Purchasing Power: For the average earner, Derry offers slightly higher purchasing power. The higher median income combined with no state income tax offsets the steeper housing costs. However, Philadelphia’s lower housing prices (relative to income) give it a surprising edge for renters and those looking to buy their first home. If you earn the median in both cities, your money goes further in Philadelphia for housing, but further in Derry for everything else.

VERDICT: DOLLAR POWER
Winner: Derry CDP (For higher earners and those without kids in public school, the tax advantage is real). Runner-Up: Philadelphia (For renters and first-time buyers, the absolute housing cost is easier to swallow).

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The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent

This is where the rubber meets the road. Are you looking to plant roots or keep your options open?

Philadelphia’s Market:

• Median Home Price: $270,375
• Rent (1BR): $1,451
• Market Dynamics: It’s a buyer’s market in many neighborhoods. Inventory is decent, and prices are stable. You can still find renovation projects in up-and-coming areas for under $250k. Renting is competitive but manageable, with a wide range of options from old-world walk-ups to modern high-rises. The barrier to entry for buying is relatively low compared to other major cities.

Derry CDP’s Market:

• Median Home Price: $356,700
• Rent (1BR): $1,506
• Market Dynamics: This is a seller’s market. Low inventory, high demand from families fleeing more expensive Boston suburbs, and a premium on good school districts. The Housing Index of 148.2 tells the story—you’re paying a premium for the privilege of living here. Renting is an option, but the stock is limited, and you’re often competing with buyers.

The Bottom Line: If you want to buy a home without breaking the bank or getting into a bidding war, Philadelphia is your city. The market is more accessible. Derry’s market is tougher for buyers, with higher prices and more competition. Renting in Derry is surprisingly expensive for a small town, reflecting its desirability.

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The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

This is where personal preference overrides data. Let’s talk about the daily grind.

Traffic & Commute

• Philadelphia: The SEPTA system is extensive (though not always reliable). Commutes can be brutal—the average is 30-45 minutes, with gridlock on I-76 and I-95. Parking is a nightmare and expensive. If you work downtown, public transit is viable; if you need a car, brace for traffic.
• Derry CDP: This is car country. There’s no real public transit to speak of. Commutes are short and sweet—most people work locally or in nearby Manchester or Nashua. The average commute is likely under 20 minutes. Traffic is minimal except for rush hour on Route 102. The trade-off? You need a car for everything.

Weather

• Philadelphia: Experiences all four seasons with gusto. Summers are hot and humid (90°F+), winters are cold with snow (30-40 inches), and spring/fall are beautiful but fleeting. The humidity can be a dealbreaker for some.
• Derry CDP: Slightly cooler and more seasonal. The average temp is 48.0°F. Winters are snowy and long, but summers are pleasantly warm without oppressive humidity. It’s classic New England weather—beautiful autumns, but you must be prepared for serious snow.

Crime & Safety

This is the most stark contrast in our data.

• Philadelphia: The violent crime rate is 726.5 per 100k people. This is a significant challenge. While many neighborhoods are safe and vibrant, crime is a real concern city-wide. You must research specific areas thoroughly.
• Derry CDP: The violent crime rate is 146.4 per 100k people. This is remarkably low—safer than the national average and exponentially safer than Philadelphia. It’s the kind of place where people leave their doors unlocked (though not advised).

The Verdict: If safety is your number one priority, Derry CDP is an undeniable winner. If you can accept the risks of a large city for the cultural payoff, Philadelphia offers more excitement.

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The Final Verdict: Who Should Choose Which City?

After digging into the data and the vibe, here’s the final breakdown.

PROS & CONS: Philadelphia

Pros:

• Affordable Big City Living: Significantly cheaper than NYC, Boston, or D.C. with similar amenities.
• Culture & History: World-class museums, incredible food, legendary music, and deep history on every corner.
• Diverse Economy: Strong job market in healthcare, education, finance, and tech.
• Walkability & Transit: Many neighborhoods are walkable, and public transit exists (unlike Derry).
• Vibrant Energy: Constant activity, diversity, and a sense of being in the "real world."

Cons:

• High Crime Rate: A serious issue that can’t be ignored.
• Traffic & Parking: A daily frustration for drivers.
• Old Infrastructure: Aging pipes, roads, and public transit can be unreliable.
• City Taxes: While state tax is low, city wage and business taxes add up.

PROS & CONS: Derry CDP

Pros:

• Extremely Safe: One of the lowest crime rates you’ll find.
• Top-Tier Schools: Excellent public school systems are a major draw for families.
• High Median Income & Low Taxes: No state income tax and a prosperous community.
• Peace & Quiet: A true escape from urban chaos.
• Proximity to Nature: Easy access to hiking, lakes, and the New Hampshire coast.

Cons:

• Expensive Housing: High prices relative to size and amenities.
• Lack of Diversity: It’s predominantly white and suburban.
• Boring for Young Singles: Very limited nightlife, dating pool, and cultural scene.
• Car-Dependent: No walkability or public transit.
• Long, Harsh Winters: Snow can be a major lifestyle factor.

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WINNERS BY CATEGORY

• Winner for Families: Derry CDP. The trifecta of safety, schools, and community is unbeatable for raising kids.
• Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: Philadelphia. The city’s energy, dating scene, and networking opportunities are in a different league.
• Winner for Retirees: It’s a Tie, but with a Caveat. Derry wins for safety, quiet, and low taxes (if you have retirement income from other states). Philadelphia wins for walkability, cultural access, and lower housing costs. The choice depends on whether you want a peaceful haven or an active urban life.

The Bottom Line:

Choose Philadelphia if you crave the texture, diversity, and grit of a real city and are willing to trade some safety and quiet for it. It’s the choice for the adventurer, the creative, and the budget-conscious urbanite.

Choose Derry CDP if your priority is safety, schools, and a peaceful, orderly life. It’s the choice for the planner, the family-builder, and the retiree seeking a secure retreat. Just be prepared to pay a premium for that peace.

Your move.