Category / Metric	Lincoln	Philadelphia
Financial Overview
Median Income	$68,050	$60,302
Unemployment Rate	3%	4.7%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$289,999	$270,375
Price per SqFt	$165	$204
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$856	$1,451
Housing Cost Index	83.6	117.8
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	95.3	100.3
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$3.40
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	345.0	726.5
Bachelor's Degree+	42.5%	35.7%
Air Quality (AQI)	34	40

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

Choosing between Philadelphia and Lincoln is like choosing between a bustling, historic novel and a well-written, heartwarming short story. One is a heavyweight champion, dense with layers, grit, and relentless energy. The other is a stealth contender—quietly powerful, clean, and offering a kind of peace you don't find in major metros.

As your Relocation Expert, I'm here to cut through the noise. Whether you're a young professional chasing a career, a family seeking a backyard, or a retiree looking for a slower pace, the wrong choice here can feel like a massive "dealbreaker." Let's dive into this data-driven showdown to see which city truly wins.

The Vibe Check: Big City Grit vs. Plainspoken Perfection

Philadelphia, PA is a city that grabs you by the collar. It’s the 5th most populous city in the U.S. (over 1.5 million people), a place where history slams into the modern world on every corner. Think cheesesteaks, the Liberty Bell, world-class hospitals, and a fiercely proud, no-nonsense attitude. It’s a city of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality—from the cobblestone streets of Old City to the vibrant murals of South Philly.

Who is Philadelphia for? The cultural glutton, the career climber, the history buff, and anyone who thrives on the hum of a major city. It’s for those who want access to everything—from an NBA team to a world-class orchestra—without the astronomical price tag of New York or DC.

Lincoln, NE is the antithesis of chaos. As Nebraska's capital and second-largest city (pop. ~295k), it’s a clean, organized, and surprisingly cosmopolitan hub nestled in the Great Plains. It’s home to the University of Nebraska, a thriving tech corridor, and a surprising amount of arts and culture for its size. The vibe is "Midwest Nice" on steroids—friendly, safe, and deeply community-oriented.

Who is Lincoln for? The planner, the pragmatist, the family-builder, and anyone seeking a reprieve from coastal congestion. It’s for those who value safety, clean air, and a backyard more than a nightlife scene that goes till 2 a.m.

Verdict: This isn't about right or wrong. It's about fit. If you crave the energy and anonymity of a major metro, Philadelphia is calling. If you value peace, space, and a palpable sense of community, Lincoln is your sanctuary.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Actually Live?

This is where the rubber meets the road. You might earn a higher salary in a big city, but if your rent eats half of it, was it worth it? Let's talk "Purchasing Power."

The Sticker Shock: Philadelphia's housing market is 31% more expensive than the national average (Housing Index: 117.8), while Lincoln sits comfortably 16% below the national average (Housing Index: 83.6). That's a massive gap.

Cost of Living Comparison Table

Category	Philadelphia	Lincoln	Winner (Cost)
Median Income	$60,302	$68,050	Lincoln
Median Home Price	$270,375	$289,999	Surprise: Philly
1BR Rent (Avg.)	$1,451	$856	Lincoln
Housing Index	117.8 (Expensive)	83.6 (Affordable)	Lincoln
Violent Crime	726.5/100k	345.0/100k	Lincoln

Salary Wars & The Tax Man: Let’s break down a $100,000 salary, a common benchmark for professionals.

In Philadelphia: After federal, state (Pennsylvania has a flat 3.07% income tax), and city wage tax (a hefty 3.75% for residents), your take-home pay shrinks significantly. Your $1,451 rent will eat about 25% of your gross monthly income, leaving less for savings, dining out, or that weekend trip to the shore.
In Lincoln: Nebraska has a graduated income tax system, but it's generally lower than Pennsylvania's combined burden. The real win is housing. Your $856 rent is a mere 10% of your gross monthly income. That’s a staggering difference. You’re saving over $700 a month on housing alone. This is what "purchasing power" looks like in action—your money simply goes farther.

Insight: While Lincoln's median income is higher, the real story is the cost structure. In Lincoln, you can afford a better quality of life on a similar salary. In Philly, you're paying for access and amenities.

The Housing Market: To Buy or To Rent?

Philadelphia (Buyer's Market?): The median home price of $270,375 is relatively accessible for a major coastal city. However, the market is competitive. You're often bidding against developers and investors snapping up row homes for rentals. Finding a move-in-ready single-family home in a desirable neighborhood requires patience and a flexible budget. Renting is the norm for many, but the rental market is tight and prices are rising.

Lincoln (Renter's & Buyer's Paradise): Here’s the kicker: despite being a smaller city, Lincoln’s median home price ($289,999) is actually slightly higher than Philadelphia’s. This reflects a hot housing market driven by low inventory and high demand from a growing population. However, the types of homes are different. You get more square footage, a yard, and a garage for your money. The competition is fierce, but the product is better. Renting is an incredible value, making it the ideal choice for newcomers or those not ready to commit.

Verdict: For renters, Lincoln is the undisputed champion. For buyers, it’s a toss-up: Philly offers urban density at a lower price point, while Lincoln offers suburban comfort at a premium.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life in the Raw

Traffic & Commute

Philadelphia: The traffic is real. The Schuylkill and I-95 are notorious parking lots during rush hour. Public transit (SEPTA) is extensive but aging and often delayed. If you work in Center City, you can ditch the car. If you live in the suburbs, you're in for a grind.
Lincoln: What traffic? The average commute is under 20 minutes. The city is laid out in a logical grid. You'll drive everywhere, but you'll rarely sit in standstill congestion. The stress level is a fraction of Philly's.

Weather: Humidity vs. Harsh Winters

Philadelphia: Has four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid (often hitting 90°F), which can be oppressive. Winters are cold, with occasional snowstorms, but nothing compared to the Plains. Spring and fall are glorious.
Lincoln: Experiences the full force of the Great Plains. Winters are brutally cold and windy, with frequent snow and ice. Summers are hot and can be humid. The weather is a major factor here; you must be prepared for extreme temperature swings.

Crime & Safety: A Stark Contrast

Philadelphia: With a violent crime rate of 726.5 per 100,000, Philadelphia faces significant safety challenges. Crime is highly concentrated in specific neighborhoods, but it's a reality of city life that requires awareness and research.
Lincoln: The violent crime rate of 345.0 per 100,000 is less than half of Philadelphia's. While no city is crime-free, Lincoln is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities of its size in the U.S. This is a massive, non-negotiable advantage for families and anyone prioritizing personal safety.

The Final Verdict: Who Wins Your Relocation?

After crunching the numbers and weighing the lifestyles, here’s the final breakdown.

Winner for Families: Lincoln

Why: Safety is paramount. The crime rate in Lincoln is drastically lower. The cost of living allows for a larger home, a yard, and public schools that are generally well-funded and high-performing. The community-centric vibe and easy commutes mean more time with the family.

Winner for Singles & Young Pros: Philadelphia

Why: The career opportunities in healthcare, education, and tech are vast. The social scene is unparalleled—endless restaurants, bars, music venues, and networking events. The cost, while high, is still manageable compared to other major East Coast cities. It’s a place to build a career and a social life simultaneously.

Winner for Retirees: Lincoln

Why: Lower cost of living means retirement savings stretch further. The safety and peace of mind are invaluable. Access to quality healthcare (thanks to the University of Nebraska Medical Center) is excellent. While winters are harsh, the overall quality of life, community support, and slower pace are ideal for this stage of life.

Pros & Cons: At a Glance

Philadelphia: The Historic Powerhouse

Pros:

World-class culture, dining, and history.
Massive job market and professional networks.
Excellent public transit (by U.S. standards).
Proximity to NYC, DC, and the Jersey Shore.
Vibrant, diverse neighborhoods with unique characters.

Cons:

High cost of living, especially rent and city taxes.
Significant safety concerns in many areas.
Brutal traffic and stressful commutes.
Aging infrastructure and public services.
Humid summers and unpredictable winters.

Lincoln: The Plainspoken Gem