Georgetown vs Philadelphia

Category / Metric	Georgetown	Philadelphia
Financial Overview
Median Income	$78,373	$60,302
Unemployment Rate	4.7%	4.7%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$296,750	$270,375
Price per SqFt	$194	$204
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$837	$1,451
Housing Cost Index	74.4	117.8
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	95.2	100.3
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$3.40
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	250.9	726.5
Bachelor's Degree+	32.5%	35.7%
Air Quality (AQI)	31	40

Of course. Here is the head-to-head showdown article comparing Philadelphia and Georgetown.

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Philadelphia vs. Georgetown: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown

So, you're standing at a crossroads. On one path, the gritty, historic, and utterly electric energy of a major metro. On the other, the quiet charm, scenic beauty, and slower pace of a beloved resort town.

We're talking Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—the City of Brotherly Love—and Georgetown, Delaware—the "Jewel of the Delaware Coast."

This isn't just a choice between a city and a town. It's a choice between two entirely different lifestyles. Are you chasing career opportunities, world-class culture, and a non-stop pulse? Or are you seeking a peaceful retreat, a stronger sense of community, and a place where the beach is your backyard?

Let's break it down, head-to-head, so you can decide where to plant your roots.

The Vibe Check: Fast-Paced Metro vs. Laid-Back Beach Town

Philadelphia is a powerhouse. It's the sixth-largest city in the U.S., a major economic engine on the East Coast, and a city that wears its history on its sleeve—from the Liberty Bell to Rocky's steps. The vibe here is ambitious, diverse, and unapologetically real. You'll find world-class museums and universities, a booming food scene, and neighborhoods that feel like their own small towns. It's a city for the go-getter, the culture vulture, and the person who thrives on energy. Philly is for the ambitious professional, the student, and the urbanite who wants big-city amenities without the astronomical price tag of NYC or D.C.

Georgetown is a different world entirely. Located on the Delaware Bay, it’s a coastal town known for its waterfront boardwalk, historic charm, and a massive resort community (The Villages at Rehoboth) that brings a unique energy. The vibe here is relaxed, scenic, and deeply connected to the outdoors. Life moves at a slower, more deliberate pace. It's a haven for retirees, beach lovers, and those looking to escape the rat race. Georgetown is for the retiree, the remote worker craving peace, and the family looking for a quiet, safe community with nature at its doorstep.

Verdict:

• Winner for Urban Energy & Culture: Philadelphia
• Winner for Scenic Relaxation: Georgetown

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The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Stretch Further?

This is where the data gets really interesting. At first glance, the numbers might surprise you. While Georgetown's median income is higher, Philadelphia's cost of living tells a different story about your day-to-day purchasing power.

Let's put the essential costs side-by-side.

Category	Philadelphia	Georgetown	The Takeaway
Median Home Price	$270,375	$296,750	Georgetown's housing is slightly more expensive.
Rent (1BR)	$1,451	$837	Huge win for Georgetown. Rent is nearly half the price.
Housing Index	117.8	74.4	Philly is 58% more expensive for housing overall.
Utilities	~$165/mo	~$155/mo	A minor difference, but Philly edges out slightly.
Groceries	~$150/mo	~$145/mo	Essentially a wash; both are near the national average.

Salary Wars & The Purchasing Power Puzzle

If you earn $100,000, where does it feel like more?

In Philadelphia, you'll face a state income tax of 3.07% and a city wage tax of 3.75% for residents. That takes a significant bite out of your paycheck right off the top. However, the city's extensive public transit can save you a car payment, insurance, and gas.

In Georgetown, you're in a tax-friendly state. Delaware has a progressive income tax, but it's generally lower than many states, and it has no sales tax. This is a massive financial advantage for everyday spending.

The Insight: While Philly's housing index is high, Georgetown's rent is a steal. If you're renting, Georgetown offers incredible savings. If you're buying, Philadelphia's median home price is surprisingly accessible for a major city. However, Georgetown's tax advantages (no sales tax!) and lower utility costs mean your overall cost of living could be lower, even if the home price is similar.

Verdict:

• Winner for Renters: Georgetown (by a landslide)
• Winner for Homebuyers (Affordability): Philadelphia (slightly lower median price)
• Winner for Overall Tax Burden: Georgetown (no sales tax, lower income tax)

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The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent & Market Competition

Philadelphia: The market is competitive but offers a wide range of options. You can find a historic rowhouse in a vibrant neighborhood or a modern condo in Center City. The Housing Index of 117.8 confirms it's a seller's market, with demand driving prices up. Renting is popular, but buying provides a foothold in a city with strong long-term appreciation potential. Availability is decent, but desirable properties move fast.

Georgetown: This is a unique market. A significant portion of the housing is tied to The Villages at Rehoboth, a massive active adult community that has a huge influence on local prices and availability. Outside of that, the market is smaller and can be tight. The Housing Index of 74.4 suggests it's more of a buyer's market than Philly, but the inventory is much smaller. Renting is exceptionally affordable, making it a fantastic option for those not ready to buy.

Verdict:

• Winner for Buyers (Options & Competition): Philadelphia (more diverse inventory)
• Winner for Renters (Value & Stability): Georgetown

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The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

Traffic & Commute

Philadelphia: Commuting is a mixed bag. The city has a robust public transit system (SEPTA), which is a lifesaver for many. However, traffic on I-95, I-76, and the Schuylkill Expressway can be brutal. If you commute by car, be prepared for congestion. Average commute time is around 30 minutes.
Georgetown: This is a non-issue. Traffic jams are rare. Most errands are a short drive away, and the commute is a breeze. The trade-off is that you'll almost certainly need a car—public transit is virtually non-existent. Average commute is under 20 minutes.

Weather

Philadelphia: Experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid (90°F+ is common), springs and falls are beautiful, and winters bring cold temperatures and 12-15 inches of snow on average. The humidity can be a dealbreaker for some.
Georgetown: A milder coastal climate. Summers are warm but often moderated by bay breezes (highs in the mid-80s). Winters are chilly but generally less severe than inland, with less snowfall. The big trade-off is the humidity, which can be significant in the summer months.

Crime & Safety

This is a critical, honest comparison.
Philadelphia: Like any major city, it has areas of concern. The violent crime rate is 726.5 per 100k people, which is significantly above the national average. Safety can vary drastically from one neighborhood to another. It requires urban awareness.
Georgetown: Statistically, it is far safer. The violent crime rate is 250.9 per 100k, which is much closer to the national average and a fraction of Philadelphia's rate. This is a major point in its favor for families and retirees.

Verdict:

• Winner for Easy Commuting: Georgetown
• Winner for Weather Variety: Philadelphia (if you love all four seasons)
• Winner for Safety: Georgetown (by a wide margin)

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The Final Verdict: Which City is Right for You?

After digging into the data and the lifestyle, the choice becomes clearer. It's not about which city is "better," but which city is better for you.

🏆 Winner for Families: Georgetown

Why: The combination of significantly lower crime rates, excellent school districts (in the Cape Henlopen district), and affordable housing (especially renting) makes Georgetown a safe and financially sensible choice for raising kids. The access to outdoor activities and a slower pace of life is a huge bonus.

🏆 Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Philadelphia

Why: The career opportunities are unmatched. The diverse social scene, endless cultural events, and robust public transit create an environment where you can build a network and a life. While the cost of living is higher, the energy and opportunity are the real currency for this demographic.

🏆 Winner for Retirees: Georgetown

Why: This is a near-perfect fit. Low crime, a relaxed pace, tax advantages (no sales tax!), and a community designed for active adults (thanks to The Villages) make it a top-tier retirement destination. The weather is manageable, and the cost of living is reasonable, especially if you're downsizing.

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At a Glance: Pros & Cons

Philadelphia: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Unbeatable Culture: World-class museums, history, food, and arts.
• Career Hub: Major industries in healthcare, finance, and tech.
• Walkable & Transit-Friendly: You can live without a car in many neighborhoods.
• Diverse Neighborhoods: A vibe for every personality.
• Surprisingly Affordable Housing (for a major city): Median home price under $300k.

Cons:

• High Crime Rate: Requires careful neighborhood selection and urban awareness.
• City Wage Tax: A significant hit to your take-home pay.
• Traffic & Congestion: Can be a daily frustration for drivers.
• Summertime Humidity: Can be oppressive.

Georgetown: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Incredible Safety: Violent crime is a fraction of Philly's.
• Affordable Cost of Living: Especially for renters and with no sales tax.
• Relaxed, Scenic Lifestyle: Beach, bay, and boardwalk at your fingertips.
• Minimal Traffic & Easy Commutes: Stress-free driving.
• Strong Retirement Community: Active and social environment for seniors.

Cons:

• Limited Job Market: You'll likely need a remote job or a short commute to a larger hub like Dover.
• Car-Dependent: Public transportation is virtually non-existent.
• Smaller & Less Diverse: Far fewer dining, shopping, and cultural options.
• Seasonal Tourism: The area can get crowded in the summer months.
• Isolation: It's a drive to get to a major airport or city for a weekend trip.