đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Evanston and Philadelphia
Head-to-Head Analysis
Evanston vs Philadelphia
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Evanston | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $97,085 | $60,302 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.4% | 4.7% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $420,000 | $270,375 |
| Price per SqFt | $305 | $204 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,231 | $1,451 |
| Housing Cost Index | 110.7 | 117.8 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 103.3 | 100.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 425.6 | 726.5 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | — | 35.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 33 | 40 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Philadelphia vs. Evanston: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you're stuck between two cities that couldn't be more different. On one side, you have Philadelphia—a gritty, historic, major metro with a chip on its shoulder. On the other, Evanston—a polished, affluent, Midwestern suburb that feels like a small town but sits on the shores of Lake Michigan.
This isn't just a choice between two zip codes; it's a choice between two entirely different lifestyles. Are you looking for the energy of a big city, or the curated calm of a college town? Let's dig into the data, the vibes, and the dealbreakers to find out which one wins your heart—and your wallet.
The Vibe Check: Big City Grit vs. Polished Suburbia
Philadelphia is the underdog that’s finally getting its due. It’s a city of neighborhoods, each with its own personality. You’ve got the rowhouses of South Philly, the historic charm of Old City, and the artsy, eclectic vibe of Fishtown. It’s a city where you can grab a $5 cheesesteak, walk the same cobblestones as the Founding Fathers, and catch a world-class concert all in one day. Philly is for the person who wants an authentic, unpretentious urban experience without the sky-high price tags of NYC or D.C. It’s loud, it’s proud, and it’s constantly evolving.
Evanston, meanwhile, is the picture of Midwestern polish. Home to Northwestern University, it’s a town defined by its academic prestige, stunning lakefront, and manicured downtown. The vibe is intellectual, family-friendly, and slightly reserved. You’re more likely to find a quiet coffee shop discussion about literature than a raucous street festival. Evanston is for the person who values top-tier schools, a safe environment, and easy access to Chicago’s amenities without actually having to live in the city. It’s refined, stable, and beautiful—but it can feel a bit homogenous and tame if you’re craving gritty authenticity.
Who is each city for?
- Philly is for the urban adventurer, the history buff, the young professional on a budget, and anyone who values diversity and street-level energy.
- Evanston is for the established family, the academic, the retiree who values culture and safety, and the professional who wants a quiet home base with big-city access.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Go Further?
This is where the rubber meets the road. Let’s break down the cold, hard cash.
Cost of Living Table
| Category | Philadelphia | Evanston | Winner for Affordability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $270,375 | $420,000 | Philadelphia |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,451 | $1,231 | Evanston |
| Utilities (Monthly) | ~$160 | ~$145 | Evanston |
| Groceries | Index: 104.5 | Index: 106.3 | Philadelphia (Slightly) |
| Housing Index | 117.8 | 110.7 | Evanston |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power
Let’s say you earn the median income in each city. In Philadelphia, with a median income of $60,302, your purchasing power is squeezed by a higher housing index (117.8). However, the median home price is a staggering $149,625 less than in Evanston. That’s a massive deal. You’re buying a home for 36% less. That’s not just savings; that’s a life-changing difference in your monthly mortgage payment and long-term wealth building.
In Evanston, the median income is much higher at $97,085. The housing index is lower (110.7), but the home price is significantly higher. Your paycheck is bigger, but it’s immediately absorbed by the cost of housing. You’re paying a premium for the zip code, the schools, and the safety.
The Tax Twist:
Pennsylvania has a flat state income tax of 3.07%. Illinois also has a flat tax, but it’s higher at 4.95%. This gives Philly a slight edge on the income tax front. However, Evanston’s property taxes are notoriously high to fund its excellent school district, which can offset the income tax savings for homeowners.
The Verdict on Value: If you’re a renter, Evanston offers a slightly better deal on a 1BR. If you’re a buyer, Philadelphia is the undisputed winner for bang for your buck. You get a major city’s amenities for a fraction of the housing cost.
The Housing Market: Buy, Rent, and Compete
Philadelphia:
The Philly market is a tale of two cities. In desirable neighborhoods like Queen Village or Rittenhouse, you’re in a fierce seller’s market with bidding wars. In up-and-coming areas like Brewerytown or parts of North Philly, you can still find relatively affordable homes, but you’re betting on gentrification. Renting is competitive, but the supply of units is vast. The city is a renter’s market in many areas, giving you leverage.
Evanston:
Evanston is a chronic seller’s market. Inventory is always low because people don’t leave. The homes are older, often meticulously maintained, and hold their value incredibly well. You’re not just buying a house; you’re buying into a community with legendary public schools (Evanston Township High School is a top-ranked public school nationally). Competition is fierce, and you’ll likely pay a premium over the asking price. Renting is also competitive, but the high median income means there’s a strong pool of renters, keeping prices stable.
The Verdict: For buyers seeking entry-level options, Philadelphia offers more variety and opportunity. For those with a larger budget seeking a turnkey, high-appreciation asset in a stable market, Evanston is the safer bet.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
- Philadelphia: Traffic can be gnarly, especially on I-76 and I-95. The public transit system (SEPTA) is extensive but aging and sometimes unreliable. A commute from the suburbs can be a grind. However, the city itself is very walkable and bikeable.
- Evanston: You’re essentially in the Chicago metro. The commute to downtown Chicago via the CTA "L" or Metra train is efficient and takes about 30-45 minutes. Traffic within Evanston is moderate. The real win is access to Chicago’s world-class transit without the chaos of city driving.
Weather
- Philadelphia: 52°F average. You get four distinct seasons: hot, humid summers (can hit 90°F+); beautiful falls; cold, snowy winters; and muddy springs. It’s a true East Coast climate.
- Evanston: 20°F average. Winters are brutal and long. The wind off Lake Michigan makes it feel colder. Summers are warm and pleasant, but the lake can keep things cooler. If you hate snow and cold, Evanston is a non-starter.
Crime & Safety
This is the most significant differentiator.
- Philadelphia: Violent Crime Rate: 726.5 per 100k. Philly has a well-documented, persistent problem with violent crime. It’s highly neighborhood-dependent. Some areas are as safe as any suburb, while others have serious challenges.
- Evanston: Violent Crime Rate: 425.6 per 100k. While lower than Philly, this number is still notable for a suburb of its stature. However, it’s important to contextualize: Evanston is generally considered very safe, especially in its residential and downtown areas. The crime rate is often tied to specific, isolated incidents rather than widespread neighborhood issues.
The Verdict: For safety, Evanston is the clear winner, though it’s not crime-free. Philly’s safety is a hyper-local issue that requires careful research.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins Your Move?
After breaking down the data and the vibes, here’s how it shakes out.
Winner for Families: Evanston
- Why: The school system is the crown jewel. Evanston Township High School is a public school powerhouse that rivals many private institutions. The community is designed for families with parks, libraries, and organized activities. Safety is a major plus. The higher median income and home prices reflect the premium families are willing to pay for this environment.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Philadelphia
- Why: Affordability, energy, and opportunity. You can live in a vibrant neighborhood, have a social life, and build a career without being crushed by housing costs. The dating scene is larger and more diverse. Philly’s startup and arts scenes are growing, offering more professional and creative opportunities than a suburb like Evanston.
Winner for Retirees: Evanston
- Why: Stability, culture, and healthcare access. The walkable downtown, proximity to Northwestern’s cultural events (music, theater, lectures), and high-quality medical facilities (including Northwestern Memorial) are huge draws. The community is engaged and offers plenty of activities for active seniors. Philly is also great for retirees, but Evanston’s safety and polish edge it out for this demographic.
Pros & Cons: At a Glance
Philadelphia: The Gritty Underdog
Pros:
- Unbeatable Affordability: You get a major city for a fraction of the cost.
- Rich History & Culture: From Independence Hall to world-class museums.
- Incredible Food Scene: Cheesesteaks, fine dining, and everything in between.
- Walkable & Transit-Friendly: Easy to get around without a car.
- Diverse & Authentic: A true melting pot of people and neighborhoods.
Cons:
- High Crime: You must be hyper-aware of your neighborhood.
- Public Transit Issues: Aging infrastructure and reliability problems.
- Gritty Reality: It’s not always pretty. There’s urban decay alongside the revitalization.
- Weather: Winters are cold, summers are humid.
Evanston: The Polished Suburb
Pros:
- Top-Tier Schools: A major reason people move here.
- Lakefront Beauty: Stunning views and parks along Lake Michigan.
- Safe & Family-Oriented: Great for raising kids.
- Chicago Access: Big-city amenities with a suburban feel.
- Intellectual & Cultural Vibe: Driven by Northwestern University.
Cons:
- Expensive Housing: High entry point for buyers and renters.
- Can Feel Homogenous: Lacks the gritty diversity of a big city.
- Brutal Winters: Long, cold, and windy.
- "Suburban" Feel: Can be quiet if you crave nightlife.
The Bottom Line
This isn't a choice between two similar cities; it's a choice between two different worlds.
Choose Philadelphia if: You want an urban adventure, value affordability and history, and don't mind a bit of grit. You're building a career, love diverse food, and want to feel the pulse of a real, evolving city.
Choose Evanston if: You prioritize safety and schools above all, have a higher budget for housing, and want a beautiful, stable community with easy access to world-class urban amenities. You value polish, quiet, and a strong sense of community.
Now, the question is: which world feels like home?