đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Idaho Falls and Philadelphia
Head-to-Head Analysis
Idaho Falls vs Philadelphia
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Idaho Falls | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $63,049 | $60,302 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.7% | 4.7% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $358,900 | $270,375 |
| Price per SqFt | $161 | $204 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $903 | $1,451 |
| Housing Cost Index | 79.2 | 117.8 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 93.9 | 100.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 242.6 | 726.5 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 34.1% | 35.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 61 | 40 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Philadelphia vs. Idaho Falls: The Ultimate East Coast vs. Mountain West Showdown
As a relocation expert, I’ve seen clients pack their lives into moving trucks for cities big and small, from the neon glow of Las Vegas to the quiet streets of Burlington. But few choices are as stark as Philadelphia versus Idaho Falls. You’re not just choosing between two cities; you’re choosing between two entirely different Americas.
One is a gritty, historic East Coast powerhouse with over 1.5 million souls; the other is a serene, high-desert hub in the Rocky Mountains with less than 68,000 residents. One offers the electrifying energy of a major metro, the other promises the peace of wide-open spaces.
So, which one is your next home? Let’s break it down.
The Vibe Check: Big City Grit vs. Small-Town Soul
Philadelphia is the underdog with a chip on its shoulder. It’s the City of Brotherly Love that’s been through the wringer and wears its history proudly. Think world-class museums and cheesesteaks, row-house-lined streets, and a fiercely proud, authentic local culture. It’s fast-paced, walkable, and unapologetically real. You’ll find a thriving arts scene, top-tier universities, and enough nightlife to keep you busy for a decade. It’s for the person who craves energy, diversity, and the convenience of having everything—career opportunities, culture, food, transit—at their fingertips.
Idaho Falls is the antidote to city stress. Nestled along the Snake River with the Teton Range as a backdrop, it’s a slow-paced, family-focused community where the outdoors isn’t just a weekend hobby; it’s a way of life. The vibe is overwhelmingly friendly, safe, and grounded. It’s for the person who wants to trade traffic jams for mountain views, noise for quiet, and anonymity for knowing their barista by name. It’s the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a simpler, more connected life.
Who is each city for?
- Philadelphia: The career-driven, the culture vulture, the urban explorer, the family that thrives on diversity and activity.
- Idaho Falls: The outdoor adventurer, the remote worker seeking peace, the family prioritizing safety and community, the retiree looking for stunning scenery and a slower pace.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Feel Like More?
This is where the rubber meets the road. Let’s talk purchasing power. You might earn a similar salary in both cities, but your wallet will tell a very different story.
First, the sticker shock. Philadelphia’s housing index is 117.8, meaning it’s 17.8% more expensive than the national average. Idaho Falls is 79.2, meaning it’s 20.8% cheaper than the national average. That’s a massive gap.
Let’s break down the monthly costs. We’ll use the data provided, but remember these are medians—you can find cheaper or pricier options.
| Expense Category | Philadelphia | Idaho Falls | The Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Rent (1BR) | $1,451 | $903 | $548/month savings in Idaho Falls. That’s $6,576 extra in your pocket annually. |
| Utilities (Est.) | $165 | $215 | Idaho Falls is colder, so heating bills are higher. Philadelphia’s milder winters help here. |
| Groceries | ~10% above avg. | ~5% above avg. | Groceries are slightly pricier in both, but Philly edges out Idaho Falls due to urban logistics. |
| Overall COL | ~15% above avg. | ~20% below avg. | The math is clear: Idaho Falls is significantly cheaper across the board. |
Salary Wars: The $100k Test
Let’s say you make $100,000 a year.
- In Philadelphia: After state income tax (3.07% flat) and federal taxes, your take-home is roughly $72,000. With a $1,451 rent, you’re spending 24% of your take-home on housing. You’ll feel comfortable, but you won’t be living large. Your money goes to experiences, convenience, and a dynamic urban environment.
- In Idaho Falls: With no state income tax (Idaho’s is progressive, but for $100k it’s ~5.695% - still lower than many states), your take-home is roughly $74,500. With a $903 rent, you’re spending only 15% of your take-home on housing. That’s $548 more per month for savings, travel, or hobbies. Your money stretches much further, giving you a higher standard of living for the same salary.
The Verdict on Purchasing Power: Idaho Falls wins, and it’s not close. For the same salary, you’ll live in a larger space, save more, and have less financial stress. Philadelphia offers a premium urban experience, but you pay a premium for it.
The Housing Market: To Buy or to Rent?
Philadelphia (Buyer’s/Seller’s Market Mixed):
The median home price is $270,375, which looks reasonable for a major metro. However, this number is heavily skewed by neighborhoods. You can find a fixer-upper rowhouse in a transitional area for $200k, or a pristine home in Center City for $500k+. The market is competitive, especially for desirable, move-in-ready properties. Inventory is tight, and bidding wars still happen in hot areas. Renting is a viable, often necessary, first step to get a feel for the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
Idaho Falls (Seller’s Market):
The median home price is $358,900, which is 33% higher than Philly’s. Wait, what? This seems counterintuitive given the lower cost of living. Here’s the insight: Idaho Falls is experiencing a massive influx of remote workers and retirees from more expensive states like California, Washington, and Utah. This surge in demand has driven up prices, especially for single-family homes. Inventory is critically low. It’s a fierce seller’s market where homes often sell above asking price in days. Renting is your best bet as a newcomer to test the waters without getting into a bidding war.
Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
- Philadelphia: Renting is smart for flexibility. Buying is a long-term investment in a specific neighborhood. It’s a city to buy in if you plan to stay 7+ years and are ready for the upkeep of older homes.
- Idaho Falls: Renting is almost essential for newcomers due to the hyper-competitive buying market. If you buy, be prepared to move fast and potentially offer over asking. The long-term play here is betting that the area’s growth will continue.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
- Philadelphia: Brutal. The I-95 corridor is notorious. Average commute times are 25-35 minutes, but can easily double with traffic. The city is walkable/bikeable in many parts, and SEPTA provides decent (if aging) public transit. If you work in the suburbs, be prepared for a grind.
- Idaho Falls: A dream. The city is small and grid-based. The average commute is under 15 minutes. You can get across town in 10-12 minutes, even in rush “hour.” There is virtually no traffic congestion. This is a massive, daily quality-of-life upgrade.
Weather
- Philadelphia: Humid subtropical. Summers are hot and muggy (average high 85-90°F), winters are cold and damp with occasional snow (~13 inches/year). Spring and fall are gorgeous. The humidity is a real factor—it can feel oppressive in July and August.
- Idaho Falls: Semi-arid, high desert. Winters are cold and snowy (~40 inches/year), with temperatures often dipping below 0°F. Summers are dry and warm (average high 85-90°F), but low humidity makes it feel more comfortable. You get four distinct, dramatic seasons. The dry air is a pro for some, a con for others.
Crime & Safety
- Philadelphia: Let’s be honest—this is a major concern. The violent crime rate is 726.5 per 100k, which is 228% higher than the national average. This varies dramatically by neighborhood, with some areas being perfectly safe and others you avoid after dark. It requires street smarts and choosing your location carefully.
- Idaho Falls: Exceptionally safe. The violent crime rate is 242.6 per 100k, which is 15% lower than the national average. It’s a place where people feel comfortable letting kids play outside, walking alone at night, and leaving doors unlocked (though common sense still applies).
The Verdict on Dealbreakers:
- Traffic: Idaho Falls (by a landslide).
- Weather: Depends on you. Prefer four distinct, snowy winters? Idaho Falls. Prefer milder winters and can tolerate summer humidity? Philadelphia.
- Safety: Idaho Falls is statistically and anecdotally safer.
The Ultimate Verdict: Who Wins Each Category?
| Category | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living & Purchasing Power | Idaho Falls | Your salary stretches 50% further on housing. The financial breathing room is undeniable. |
| Housing Affordability (Entry) | Philadelphia | Lower median home price, though it’s a different beast (rowhouses vs. single-family homes). |
| Job Market (Diversity & Opportunity) | Philadelphia | Vastly more industries, Fortune 500 companies, and career paths. Idaho Falls is more niche (healthcare, energy, tech). |
| Culture & Entertainment | Philadelphia | World-class museums, sports, dining, history, and nightlife. It’s in a different league. |
| Outdoor Access & Recreation | Idaho Falls | Unbeatable access to mountains, rivers, and national parks (Grand Teton, Yellowstone are day trips). |
| Daily Commute & Convenience | Idaho Falls | 15-minute commutes vs. 30+ minutes. The sheer time saved is life-changing. |
| Safety & Crime | Idaho Falls | Over a 3x lower violent crime rate. A non-negotiable for many families. |
| Walkability & Public Transit | Philadelphia | A walkable urban core with a subway and bus system. Idaho Falls is car-dependent. |
Winner for Families: Idaho Falls
Why: Safety, affordability, shorter commutes, and a community-oriented, small-town feel with incredible outdoor access for family adventures. The lower stress and financial freedom are huge pluses.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Philadelphia
Why: Career opportunities are unmatched. The social scene, restaurants, and cultural events provide endless networking and dating prospects. It’s a city where you can build a professional identity and have fun doing it.
Winner for Retirees: Idaho Falls
Why: Stunning scenery, low crime, a peaceful pace, and a lower cost of living (especially for those selling a home in a more expensive market). The active outdoor lifestyle promotes health and well-being. (Note: Healthcare access is good but not at the level of a major metro like Philly).
Final Pros & Cons: The Bottom Line
Philadelphia: The Urban Powerhouse
Pros:
- Unmatched Career Diversity: From healthcare to finance to tech, opportunities are vast.
- World-Class Culture: Museums, theaters, and a legendary food scene.
- Walkable & Connected: Good public transit and many neighborhoods are walkable.
- Historic & Gritty Charm: A city with soul and layers of history.
- Proximity to Everything: Close to NYC, DC, beaches, and mountains.
Cons:
- High Cost of Living: Rent and overall expenses are steep.
- Traffic & Commutes: Can be a daily grind.
- Crime: A serious issue that varies by neighborhood. Requires vigilance.
- Humid Summers: Can be oppressive.
- Aging Infrastructure: Roads, transit, and utilities can be unreliable.
Idaho Falls: The Mountain Sanctuary
Pros:
- Incredible Purchasing Power: Your salary goes much, much further.
- Extreme Safety: Low crime rates offer peace of mind.
- Short Commutes: More time for family and hobbies.
- Unbeatable Outdoor Access: Mountains, rivers, and parks are your backyard.
- Strong Community Feel: Friendly, tight-knit, and family-oriented.
Cons:
- Limited Job Market: Fewer industries and major employers.
- Car Dependency: You need a car for everything.
- Isolation: Far from other major cities (Salt Lake City is a 3-hour drive).
- Harsh Winters: Can be long, cold, and snowy.
- Growing Pains: Rapid growth is impacting affordability and changing the town’s character.
Final Recommendation:
If your priority is career growth, culture, and urban energy, and you’re willing to manage a higher budget and navigate city challenges, Philadelphia is your city.
If your priority is safety, financial freedom, outdoor adventure, and a peaceful daily life, and you’re okay with a smaller job market and more isolation, Idaho Falls is your haven.
Choose wisely—these are two very different paths to happiness.