đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Keene and Philadelphia
Head-to-Head Analysis
Keene vs Philadelphia
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Keene | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $78,183 | $60,302 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3% | 4.7% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $350,000 | $270,375 |
| Price per SqFt | $222 | $204 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,471 | $1,451 |
| Housing Cost Index | 125.3 | 117.8 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 106.8 | 100.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 146.4 | 726.5 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 43.4% | 35.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 40 | 40 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Philadelphia vs. Keene: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you’re at a crossroads. On one side, you have Philadelphia—a gritty, historic, and fiercely proud East Coast metropolis with a population of 1.5 million. On the other, you have Keene—a charming, picture-perfect slice of New England in southwestern New Hampshire, home to just 22,923 souls.
This isn’t just a choice between a city and a town. It’s a choice between two entirely different worlds. Are you craving the energy of a major metro, with world-class museums, endless dining options, and a subway system? Or are you seeking a slower pace, tight-knit community vibes, and the peace of the countryside?
Let’s cut through the noise and break down exactly what life is like in each. We’ll look at your wallet, your commute, your safety, and your overall happiness. Grab a coffee; we’re diving in.
1. The Vibe Check: City of Brotherly Love vs. Classic New England
Philadelphia is a city of contrasts. It’s where the Declaration of Independence was signed, but it’s also where Rocky Balboa ran up the Art Museum steps. It’s a blue-collar town with a white-collar economy, a place where you can grab a legendary cheesesteak from a corner vendor and then catch a world-class opera. The energy is palpable. It’s dense, walkable (in many neighborhoods), and unapologetically itself. You’ll find diverse communities, a thriving arts scene, and more history on a single block than most states have in their entirety.
Who is Philadelphia for? The urban professional who wants big-city amenities without the astronomical price tag of NYC or D.C. The history buff, the foodie, the sports fanatic, and anyone who thrives on the buzz of a real metropolis.
Keene is the postcard version of New England. Think white-steepled churches, a classic main street (Central Square) lined with independent shops and cafes, and a backdrop of rolling hills and forests. Life here is community-centric. It’s home to Keene State College, which injects a youthful energy, but the overall pace is decidedly slower. Seasons are dramatic here—vibrant autumns, snowy winters, lush summers. It’s a place where you know your neighbors, and the biggest traffic jam is waiting for a tractor to cross the road.
Who is Keene for? The nature lover, the remote worker seeking peace, the retiree who wants a safe, walkable small town, and the family that prioritizes a strong sense of community and outdoor access over the hustle and bustle.
2. The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Feel Bigger?
This is where the rubber meets the road. Let’s talk purchasing power.
At first glance, the raw numbers might surprise you. Keene’s median income ($78,183) is significantly higher than Philadelphia’s ($60,302). But does that extra cash actually go further? Let's break down the monthly essentials.
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| Category | Philadelphia | Keene | The Winner (For Your Wallet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $270,375 | $350,000 | Philadelphia |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,451 | $1,471 | Philadelphia (Slightly) |
| Housing Index | 117.8 | 125.3 | Philadelphia |
| Groceries | 10-15% above avg | 5-10% above avg | Keene |
| Utilities | Slightly above avg | Higher (long winters) | Philadelphia |
The Salary Wars & "Purchasing Power"
Here’s the kicker: while Keene’s median income is higher, Philadelphia’s cost of living, especially in housing, is surprisingly lower. The Housing Index is a key metric—where 100 is the national average. Keene sits at 125.3, meaning housing is 25.3% more expensive than the U.S. average. Philadelphia, despite being a major city, is at 117.8%. A median home in Keene costs $79,625 more than in Philly.
Real-world scenario: If you earn $100,000 in Philadelphia, your money stretches further in housing. You could afford a nicer apartment or a home in a decent neighborhood with more ease than in Keene, where the housing market is tight and prices are inflated by its desirability and limited inventory. However, Keene’s higher median income suggests that the local economy (often tied to education and healthcare) pays well for the area.
Insight on Taxes: New Hampshire has no state income tax on wages, which is a massive advantage for high earners. Pennsylvania has a flat state income tax of 3.07%. If you’re making six figures, that 3.07% is a noticeable chunk—potentially $3,070 on a $100,000 salary. This could offset Keene’s higher housing costs for some.
Verdict: For pure housing affordability, Philadelphia wins. For high earners who can leverage the no-income-tax benefit, Keene could be financially smarter in the long run.
3. The Housing Market: Buy or Rent?
Philadelphia: A Buyer’s Market (with caveats)
Philly’s housing market is relatively accessible. $270,375 for a median home price in a major coastal city is a steal compared to Boston or NYC. However, it’s a tale of two cities. Your money goes far in neighborhoods like Port Richmond or parts of West Philly, but you’ll pay a premium in desirable areas like Fishtown, Graduate Hospital, or Queen Village. Competition exists, but it’s not as cutthroat as in some metros. Renting is a viable option with a wide range of inventory, from luxury high-rises to historic row homes.
Keene: A Seller’s Market
Keene’s housing market is tough. With a small population and high desirability (for those seeking a New England lifestyle), inventory is low. The median home price of $350,000 is high for the area, and you’re competing with remote workers, retirees, and second-home buyers. Bidding wars are common. Renting isn’t much easier, as the $1,471 rent is high for a market with limited apartment complexes. The lack of new construction due to land constraints keeps supply tight.
Verdict: If you’re looking to buy without a massive bidding war, Philadelphia offers more options and better value. Keene is a tough market for both buyers and renters.
4. The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
- Philadelphia: Traffic is real. The Schuylkill and Vine Street Expressways are notorious. The SEPTA public transit system (buses, trolleys, subway) is extensive but can be unreliable. Average commute time is 28 minutes. If you work in Center City and live in the suburbs, you can avoid owning a car, but most Philly residents own one.
- Keene: What traffic? The biggest rush hour is in autumn when leaf-peepers clog the roads. You will 100% need a car. Everything is spread out. Commutes are short and stress-free, typically under 20 minutes.
Weather
- Philadelphia: Experiences all four seasons. Summers can be hot and humid (90°F+), and winters bring snow and slush (average low in Jan: 26°F). It’s manageable but not mild.
- Keene: New England weather is a drama queen. Winters are long, cold, and snowy—often with 30+ inches of snow. The average temperature is 45°F, but that’s a yearly average. Summers are gorgeous, but the winter is a serious commitment. If you hate shoveling, this is a dealbreaker.
Crime & Safety
This is a stark contrast and a critical factor.
- Philadelphia: The violent crime rate is 726.5 incidents per 100,000 people. While many neighborhoods are perfectly safe (especially in the suburbs and gentrified areas), the city-wide average is high. You must be savvy about neighborhood choice.
- Keene: The violent crime rate is 146.4 incidents per 100,000 people. This is incredibly low—on par with some of the safest towns in America. You can leave your doors unlocked (though it’s not advised) and walk alone at night without a second thought.
Verdict: Keene is the undeniable winner for safety. Philadelphia requires more research and street smarts.
5. The Final Verdict
This isn’t about one city being “better” than the other. It’s about which city’s profile matches your life’s blueprint.
🏆 Winner for Families: Philadelphia
- Why: Better public and private school options (though they vary wildly by neighborhood), endless family-friendly activities (zoo, museums, parks), and a more diverse community. The lower housing cost allows for more space. Safety is a concern, but the right neighborhood can offer a great upbringing.
🏆 Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: Philadelphia
- Why: The dating scene, networking opportunities, and sheer volume of events and nightlife are on a different planet. You have major universities, a growing tech scene, and cultural amenities that cater to a young, dynamic crowd. The cost of living is manageable on a professional salary.
🏆 Winner for Retirees: Keene
- Why: Safety is the top priority for retirees, and Keene is a fortress. The walkable downtown, community events, and access to nature are perfect for an active retirement. The lack of state income tax on pensions is a huge financial plus. The trade-off is the challenging winters, so this is best for those who can handle the cold.
At a Glance: Pros & Cons
Philadelphia
Pros:
- Affordable for a Major City: Median home price of $270,375 is a value.
- World-Class Amenities: Museums, restaurants, sports, history.
- Diverse & Dynamic: Something for every culture and interest.
- Excellent Transit (for the US): You can live car-free in many areas.
- Strong Job Market: Healthcare, education, finance, and tech hubs.
Cons:
- High Crime Rate: 726.5/100k violent crime requires careful neighborhood selection.
- Traffic & Congestion: Commutes can be stressful.
- Urban Challenges: Like any large city, you’ll deal with noise, litter, and bureaucracy.
- State Income Tax: 3.07% on all wages.
Keene
Pros:
- Extremely Safe: 146.4/100k violent crime rate is phenomenally low.
- Strong Sense of Community: You’ll know your neighbors.
- Natural Beauty: Access to hiking, skiing, and New England scenery is unparalleled.
- No State Income Tax: A major financial advantage.
- Walkable, Charming Downtown: Central Square is the heart of the community.
Cons:
- High Housing Costs: Median home price of $350,000 for a small town.
- Limited Job Market: Primarily education, healthcare, and retail; fewer corporate careers.
- Harsh Winters: Long, cold, and snowy season.
- Isolation: It’s a two-hour drive to Boston or Albany; you’re in a bubble.
- Lack of Diversity: The population is predominantly white.
The Bottom Line: Choose Philadelphia if you crave the energy of a city, need a dynamic job market, and want more house for your money. Choose Keene if your top priorities are safety, community, and nature, and you have a job (or income) that can support the higher housing costs of a desirable small town.
So, what’s it going to be? The roar of the city or the quiet of the countryside?