📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between East Providence and Philadelphia
Head-to-Head Analysis
East Providence vs Philadelphia
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
Candidate A
East Providence
RI
Cost Index 100.9
Median Income $80k
Rent (1BR) $1362
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | East Providence | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $79,660 | $60,302 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.3% | 4.7% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $457,000 | $270,375 |
| Price per SqFt | $279 | $204 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,362 | $1,451 |
| Housing Cost Index | 98.9 | 117.8 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 97.0 | 100.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 159.5 | 726.5 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 32.3% | 35.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 30 | 40 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Philadelphia vs. East Providence: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
You’re staring down the barrel of a relocation. Maybe it’s a new job, a lifestyle change, or just a hankering for a fresh start. On your shortlist: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and East Providence, Rhode Island. At first glance, they couldn't be more different. One is a gritty, legendary big-city powerhouse; the other is a quiet, affluent suburb nestled along the Narragansett Bay. But digging into the data reveals a fascinating battle of "big city perks" versus "small town safety."
Let's cut through the noise. I’ve crunched the numbers, looked at the lifestyles, and I'm here to give it to you straight. No fluff, just the facts you need to choose your next home.
1. The Vibe Check: Grit vs. Waterfront Calm
Philadelphia: The Big City Engine
Philly is a city with a chip on its shoulder and history in its bones. This is the City of Brotherly Love, but don't let the name fool you—it’s a fast-paced, no-nonsense metropolis. The vibe here is electric: think world-class museums, legendary cheesesteaks, and a burgeoning food scene that rivals any major city. It’s a city of neighborhoods, from the historic rowhouses of Queen Village to the artsy vibe of Fishtown. It’s loud, it’s dense, and it’s unapologetically alive. If you crave the energy of a major metro, constant activity, and the feeling that you're at the center of it all, Philly is your spot.
East Providence: The Suburban Sanctuary
East Providence is the definition of a New England suburb. It’s quiet, residential, and defined by its relationship with the water. You’re not getting skyscrapers here; you’re getting tree-lined streets, local parks, and a slower pace of life. The vibe is family-oriented and community-focused. It’s the kind of place where you know your neighbors, the coffee shop knows your order, and the biggest decision of the day is which waterfront park to walk the dog in. If you want to escape the chaos of a major city and value safety, space, and serenity, East Providence is calling your name.
Who It’s For:
- Philly: Young professionals, culture vultures, foodies, and anyone who needs the stimulation of a big city to feel alive.
- East Providence: Families, remote workers craving peace, and retirees looking for a safe, scenic, and stable community.
2. The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Work Harder?
This is where the rubber meets the road. We’re not just looking at sticker prices; we’re looking at purchasing power. You need to know if your salary will feel like a king’s ransom or just getting by.
Let’s break down the cost of living. (Note: A lower index number means it's cheaper than the national average; higher means more expensive).
| Expense Category | Philadelphia | East Providence | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing Index | 117.8 (18% above avg) | 98.9 (1% below avg) | East Providence |
| Median Rent (1BR) | $1,451 | $1,362 | East Providence |
| Median Home Price | $270,375 | $457,000 | Philadelphia |
| Median Income | $60,302 | $79,660 | East Providence |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power
Here’s the kicker. East Providence has a significantly higher median income ($79,660 vs. Philly's $60,302), which is fantastic. However, the housing market flips the script entirely.
- If you earn $100k in Philadelphia: You are well above the city median. Your money stretches surprisingly far, especially if you rent. The $270k median home price is attainable for a dual-income household, and the rental market leaves room in your budget for dining, entertainment, and saving. The purchasing power is strong.
- If you earn $100k in East Providence: You are also above the median, but the housing costs will bite. A median home price of $457,000 is a steep climb. While rent is slightly cheaper than Philly, the barrier to entry for buying is high. Your paycheck covers a comfortable life, but a significant chunk will go toward housing.
Tax Talk: Pennsylvania has a flat state income tax rate of 3.07%. Rhode Island has a progressive income tax with a top marginal rate of 5.99%. This means a higher earner in East Providence will lose a larger percentage of their income to state taxes compared to Philly, further squeezing that purchasing power.
Verdict: For renters, it’s a near tie, with East Providence having a slight edge on rent. For buyers, Philadelphia offers far more bang for your buck.
3. The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Philadelphia:
The market is a tale of two cities. The overall index is high, but that’s driven by a few ultra-expensive neighborhoods. For the median buyer, you can find a classic rowhouse or a condo in a vibrant area for under $300k. It’s a competitive market, but you have options. Renting is a popular and viable long-term strategy here, with a huge variety of inventory. The market is more accessible to first-time buyers than East Providence.
East Providence:
This is a classic suburban market. The inventory is smaller, and the prices are high. The median home price of $457,000 is a reality check. You’re paying a premium for the safety, the schools, and the waterfront location. It’s a seller’s market, with homes often going quickly and for over asking price. Renting is an option, but the rental stock is more limited than in a major city.
Availability & Competition:
- Philly: More inventory, but fierce competition in desirable neighborhoods.
- East Providence: Less inventory, fierce competition across the board due to high demand and limited supply.
Verdict: Philadelphia wins for affordability and choice. If your dream is to own a home without being house-poor, Philly is the clear choice. East Providence is for those with a higher budget who prioritize the suburban lifestyle above all else.
4. The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
Philadelphia: A major East Coast city with brutal traffic. The Schuylkill Expressway (I-76) is a daily nightmare. Public transit (SEPTA) is extensive but often delayed. Commutes can be long and stressful.
East Providence: A commuter suburb. Traffic exists, especially during rush hour into Providence, but it’s nowhere near Philly’s level. You’re close to I-195 and I-95. Commutes are generally shorter and less chaotic.
Weather
Both cities have similar average temperatures (52.0°F), but the experience is different. Philly has hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. East Providence has a classic New England climate: cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers, but with the moderating influence of the ocean. It can be slightly milder in winter and cooler in summer than Philly, but humidity is a factor for both.
Crime & Safety
This is the most stark contrast in the data.
- Philadelphia: Violent Crime Rate: 726.5/100k. This is significantly above the national average. Crime is a real concern, though it's heavily neighborhood-dependent. You must be vigilant and choose your area carefully.
- East Providence: Violent Crime Rate: 159.5/100k. This is well below the national average. It’s one of the safest communities in the region. This single data point is a massive dealbreaker and a huge selling point for East Providence.
Verdict: East Providence wins decisively on safety and commute. If low crime and a less stressful daily drive are non-negotiable, East Providence is the answer.
5. The Final Verdict: Who Should Pack Their Bags?
After weighing the data, the vibe, and the lifestyle factors, here’s the final showdown.
Winner for Families: East Providence
- Why: The data doesn’t lie. The violent crime rate is less than a quarter of Philadelphia’s. The schools are excellent, the community is tight-knit, and there’s space to breathe. The higher housing cost is the trade-off for a safer, more stable environment for raising kids.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Philadelphia
- Why: The purchasing power is stronger, the social and cultural scene is unmatched, and the energy is infectious. You can rent a cool apartment in a dynamic neighborhood for $1,451 and have the entire city at your doorstep. In East Providence, you’d be a short drive from Providence’s nightlife, but you’d miss the integrated, always-on vibe of a major city.
Winner for Retirees: East Providence
- Why: Safety is paramount. A quiet, scenic community with excellent healthcare access (Providence is a major medical hub) and a slower pace of life is ideal for retirement. The walkability and proximity to water offer a quality of life that’s hard to beat. Philadelphia can be overwhelming for those seeking tranquility in their golden years.
City-Specific Pros & Cons
Philadelphia: The Urban Contender
Pros:
- Unbeatable Affordability (for a major city): Median home price of $270k is a fraction of other East Coast metros.
- World-Class Culture: Museums, history, food, and sports on a premier level.
- Walkability & Transit: You can live car-free in many neighborhoods.
- Vibrant, Diverse Neighborhoods: There’s a niche for every personality.
Cons:
- High Crime Rate: Requires careful neighborhood selection and situational awareness.
- Traffic & Commutes: Can be soul-crushing.
- Sticker Shock on Taxes & Utilities: While housing is affordable, other costs add up.
- Gritty Reality: It’s not all cheesesteaks and history; it’s a working-class city with visible poverty and urban challenges.
East Providence: The Suburban Safe Bet
Pros:
- Extremely Low Crime: A safe haven for families and retirees.
- High Median Income & Strong Schools: A foundation for a stable, comfortable life.
- Scenic Beauty: Waterfront parks, bay views, and New England charm.
- Short Commute to Providence: Access to city amenities without the city chaos.
Cons:
- Sticker Shock for Buyers: $457k median home price is a significant barrier.
- Less "Vibe": It’s quiet—sometimes too quiet. Nightlife and cultural scene are limited.
- Car Dependency: You’ll likely need a car for daily errands and commuting.
- Higher State Taxes: Eats into that higher median income.
The Bottom Line
The choice boils down to a simple trade-off: Affordability & Urban Energy vs. Safety & Suburban Serenity.
- Choose Philadelphia if: Your budget is tight, you crave the stimulation of a big city, and you’re willing to navigate the challenges of urban living for the cultural and financial rewards.
- Choose East Providence if: Safety is your #1 priority, your budget allows for a higher housing cost, and you value a peaceful, scenic, and family-oriented community above all else.
Your move isn't just about a place on a map—it’s about the life you want to lead. Now you have the data to choose wisely.