Longview vs Philadelphia

Category / Metric	Longview	Philadelphia
Financial Overview
Median Income	$57,211	$60,302
Unemployment Rate	4.2%	4.7%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$270,950	$270,375
Price per SqFt	$148	$204
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$930	$1,451
Housing Cost Index	66.0	117.8
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	91.9	100.3
Gas Price (Gallon)	$2.35	$3.40
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	446.5	726.5
Bachelor's Degree+	21.4%	35.7%
Air Quality (AQI)	35	40

Here is the ultimate head-to-head showdown between Philadelphia and Longview.

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Philadelphia vs. Longview: The Ultimate Relocation Showdown

So, you’re standing at a crossroads. On one side, you have Philadelphia—the gritty, historic, fast-paced powerhouse of the Northeast Corridor. On the other, you have Longview—the quiet, affordable, East Texas gem that’s all about Southern hospitality.

This isn’t just a choice between two cities; it’s a choice between two lifestyles. Are you chasing the hustle, the cheesesteaks, and the walkable neighborhoods? Or are you trading the noise for a backyard, a slower pace, and a lot more bang for your buck?

Let’s break it down, dollar by dollar, degree by degree, and dealbreaker by dealbreaker.

The Vibe Check: Gritty Northeast vs. Laid-Back Texas

Philadelphia, PA is a city that doesn’t apologize. It’s the underdog of the East Coast—overshadowed by NYC and D.C., but fiercely proud of its own identity. We’re talking about the birthplace of American democracy, the home of the Liberty Bell, and a world-class arts and food scene. It’s a city of neighborhoods: Fishtown’s hipster breweries, Rittenhouse Square’s high-end polish, and South Philly’s row-home charm. It’s walkable, transit-heavy, and unapologetically authentic.

Longview, TX is the definition of "easy living." Nestled in the piney woods of East Texas, it’s a manufacturing and logistics hub that feels like a small town, even with 84,000 people. The vibe is slow, friendly, and deeply rooted in community. You’ll find more pickup trucks than turnstiles, more BBQ pits than bistros, and a pace of life that lets you actually hear yourself think. It’s not a tourist destination; it’s a place to put down roots.

• Who is Philadelphia for? Young professionals, history buffs, foodies, and anyone who thrives on energy and walkability.
• Who is Longview for? Families, retirees, and anyone seeking affordability, space, and a low-stress environment.

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The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Feel Like More?

This is where the rubber meets the road. You might earn a similar median income in both cities, but your purchasing power—what that money actually buys you—is drastically different.

Let’s look at the raw data.

Category	Philadelphia, PA	Longview, TX	Winner (Value)
Median Home Price	$270,375	$270,950	Tie
Rent (1BR)	$1,451	$930	Longview
Housing Index	117.8 (17.8% above nat'l avg)	66.0 (34% below nat'l avg)	Longview
Median Income	$60,302	$57,211	Philadelphia

At first glance, the home prices look almost identical. $270k is the median in both cities. But here’s the catch: that’s where the similarities end.

The Salary War & The Tax Twist
In Philadelphia, earning $60,302 means you’re paying a combined state and city income tax rate of roughly 8-9%. That’s a significant chunk of your paycheck gone before you even see it.

In Longview, Texas has 0% state income tax. The median income is slightly lower at $57,211, but the take-home pay is often comparable, if not better, because you keep more of what you earn.

The Rent Reality
The real story is in rent. In Philly, you’re paying an average of $1,451 for a one-bedroom. That’s a non-negotiable, high-cost entry point. In Longview, that same apartment is $930. That’s a $521 monthly savings, or over $6,200 a year. That’s a vacation. That’s a car payment. That’s a serious emergency fund.

The Bottom Line on Purchasing Power
If you earn $100,000 (a common benchmark for a comfortable lifestyle), your money stretches significantly further in Longview. The "Housing Index" tells the story: Philly is nearly 18% more expensive than the national average, while Longview is a staggering 34% cheaper. In Longview, you’re not just renting cheaper; you’re buying property at a fraction of the cost per square foot, and your daily expenses (groceries, utilities) are lower.

VERDICT: The Dollar Power Winner is LONGVIEW.
The math is undeniable. While Philadelphia offers more high-paying jobs, the cost of living—especially housing—eats into those gains. Longview delivers a lifestyle where your salary feels like a superpower.

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The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent & The Competition

Philadelphia: The Competitive Seller’s Market
The Philadelphia housing market is tight. With a population of 1.55 million and limited space, demand outstrips supply. The $270,375 median price is for a row home or condo, often in need of updates. You’re competing with investors, first-time buyers, and commuters from the suburbs. Bidding wars are common, and inventory moves fast. Renting is the default for many young professionals because buying is a high-barrier, competitive game.

Longview: The Buyer’s Market
Longview is a different beast. With a population of 84,000, there’s more room to breathe. The median home price is nearly identical ($270,950), but what you get for that price is worlds apart. You’re likely looking at a 3-4 bedroom single-family home on a decent lot, not a 900 sq ft row home. The market is less frenetic. Sellers are often more negotiable. For a young family, the American Dream of a house with a yard is not a fantasy here—it’s the standard.

VERDICT: The Housing Winner is LONGVIEW.
If you want to buy a home without entering a bidding war and you want actual space, Longview is the clear choice. Philadelphia’s market is for those who prioritize location and are willing to sacrifice space and convenience.

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The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Showdown

Traffic & Commute

• Philadelphia: If you live and work in the city, walkability is king. The SEPTA system (subway, buses, trolleys) is extensive. However, if you commute into the suburbs or work in the region, traffic on I-95, I-76, and the Schuylkill Expressway can be a nightmare. Parking in the city is expensive and scarce.
• Longview: Traffic is virtually nonexistent. The city is designed for cars. A commute is typically 15-20 minutes, stress-free. The biggest challenge is a occasional slowdown on I-20 during rush hour, but it pales in comparison to Philly’s gridlock.
• Winner: Longview (for ease), Philadelphia (for walkability).

Weather

• Philadelphia: Brace for four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid (90°F+), winters are cold and can dump significant snow. Spring and fall are beautiful but fleeting. The average annual temp is 52.0°F.
• Longview: Welcome to East Texas. Summers are long, hot, and humid (95°F+ is common). Winters are mild, rarely dipping below freezing for long. The average annual temp is 63.0°F. You trade snow for humidity and the occasional hurricane risk.
• Winner: Longview (if you hate snow), Philadelphia (if you prefer four seasons).

Crime & Safety

Let’s be honest. Both cities have areas to avoid.

• Philadelphia: The violent crime rate is 726.5 incidents per 100,000 people. This is a significant concern, especially in certain neighborhoods. The city has a high property crime rate as well. You must be street-smart and research neighborhoods meticulously.
• Longview: The violent crime rate is 446.5 incidents per 100,000 people. While still above the national average, it is notably lower than Philadelphia’s. The perception of safety in suburban-style neighborhoods is generally higher.
• Winner: Longview. The data and general perception point to a safer environment in Longview.

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The Final Verdict: Who Wins Your Relocation?

This isn’t about which city is "better." It’s about which city is better for you.

Winner for Families: LONGVIEW

Why? Space, safety, and affordability. For the price of a 2-bedroom condo in Philly, you can get a 4-bedroom house with a yard in Longview. The lower crime rate and slower pace create a more stable environment for raising kids. The public schools are generally well-regarded, and the community is tight-knit.

Winner for Singles & Young Pros: PHILADELPHIA

Why? Energy, opportunity, and culture. If you’re in your 20s or 30s and want a dynamic social scene, networking opportunities, world-class dining, and the ability to live without a car, Philly is unbeatable. The higher cost of living is the price of admission for a vibrant, non-stop lifestyle.

Winner for Retirees: LONGVIEW

Why? Affordability and peace. Stretching your retirement savings is crucial. Longview’s low cost of living, especially in housing and taxes, means your fixed income goes much further. The warm climate, lack of snow, and relaxed pace are ideal for a slower chapter of life.

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At a Glance: Pros & Cons

Philadelphia, PA

PROS:

• Walkable, rich in history, and culture.
• World-class food, arts, and sports scene.
• Excellent public transit (no car needed).
• Proximity to NYC, D.C., and the Jersey Shore.
• Diverse job market with high earning potential.

CONS:

• High cost of living and high taxes.
• Significant violent crime; neighborhood research is critical.
• Brutal winters and humid summers.
• Competitive and expensive housing market.
• Traffic and parking are major headaches.

Longview, TX

PROS:

• Extremely affordable cost of living.
• 0% State Income Tax.
• Safe, family-friendly neighborhoods.
• Easy, stress-free commutes.
• More house and land for your money.
• Mild winters.

CONS:

• Limited cultural and nightlife options compared to major metros.
• Car-dependent; walkability is low.
• Summers are long and intensely hot/humid.
• Fewer high-paying job opportunities outside specific industries (manufacturing, logistics).
• Can feel "small-town" or isolated if you crave big-city energy.

Final Word: If your priority is financial freedom, space, and safety, pack your bags for Longview. If your goal is career growth, cultural immersion, and a fast-paced urban experience, Philadelphia is calling your name.