Category / Metric	Mission	Philadelphia
Financial Overview
Median Income	$60,512	$60,302
Unemployment Rate	4.2%	4.7%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$292,500	$270,375
Price per SqFt	$137	$204
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$781	$1,451
Housing Cost Index	57.0	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+	27.6%	35.7%
Air Quality (AQI)	51	40

Here is the ultimate head-to-head showdown article comparing Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Mission, Kansas.

Philadelphia vs. Mission: The Ultimate Relocation Showdown

So, you’re standing at a crossroads. On one side, you have the gritty, iconic, big-city energy of Philadelphia—the City of Brotherly Love. On the other, you have the quiet, affordable, suburban charm of Mission, Kansas, a slice of Midwestern life just outside Kansas City.

They couldn't be more different. One is a sprawling metropolis of 1.5 million people; the other is a tight-knit community of 87,000. Choosing between them isn't just about picking a dot on a map—it's about choosing a lifestyle.

Let's cut through the noise and compare these two cities head-to-head to see where you belong.

The Vibe Check: Grit vs. Grass

Philadelphia is a city that demands you pay attention. It’s a place where history bleeds into the pavement, where world-class museums sit next to corner delis, and where the energy is palpable. The vibe is fast-paced, authentic, and unapologetically East Coast. It’s a city for the hustler, the history buff, the foodie, and the sports fan. If you crave anonymity, diversity, and the ability to get lost in a sea of neighborhoods, Philly is calling your name.

Mission, Kansas, is the definition of "easy living." It’s a classic suburban community where the pace slows down. The vibe here is neighborly, quiet, and family-oriented. Mission offers the perks of being close to Kansas City’s job market without the chaos of inner-city life. It’s for the person who values a manicured lawn, a short commute, and knowing their neighbors by name. If you’re looking for a low-stress environment with a strong sense of community, Mission might be your haven.

Who is each city for?

Philadelphia: Urban adventurers, young professionals, families who thrive on city amenities, and anyone who loves history and culture.
Mission: Suburban families, young professionals seeking a lower cost of living, and anyone who prioritizes a quiet, stable home environment.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Go Further?

Let’s talk numbers. This is often the biggest factor in any relocation, and the "sticker shock" here is real.

Cost of Living Comparison Table

Category	Philadelphia, PA	Mission, KS	The Difference
Median Home Price	$270,375	$292,500	Mission is 8% more expensive to buy
Rent (1BR)	$1,451	$781	Philly rent is 86% higher
Housing Index	117.8 (Above Avg)	57.0 (Below Avg)	Philly is 106% more expensive for housing
Median Income	$60,302	$60,512	Essentially a tie

Salary Wars & Purchasing Power
This is where the story gets interesting. While both cities have a nearly identical median income, their purchasing power is worlds apart.

In Mission, a $100,000 salary feels substantial. With rent at a remarkably low $781 for a one-bedroom, your housing costs are minimal, freeing up cash for savings, travel, and fun. The lack of state income tax in Kansas (though there is a state sales tax) is another feather in its cap, putting more of your paycheck directly into your pocket.

In Philadelphia, earning $100,000 is a great living, but your money is under siege. The median rent is $1,451, and that’s before you even touch utilities, which tend to be higher in older East Coast housing stock. Pennsylvania has a flat state income tax of 3.07%, which is manageable, but the high cost of goods and services in a major metro area means your dollar stretches less. You’re paying a premium for the city experience.

Verdict on a $100k Salary:

Philadelphia: You’ll live comfortably but won’t feel "rich." A significant chunk of your income goes to housing.
Mission: You’ll live very well. Your low fixed costs mean you have more disposable income for investments, travel, and a higher quality of life.

The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent

Buying a Home

Here’s a surprising twist: Buying a home in Mission, KS is slightly more expensive than in Philadelphia, with a median price of $292,500 vs. $270,375. However, the type of home is different.

Philadelphia: For $270k, you’re likely looking at a row home in a city neighborhood, a condo, or a home in a transitional area. You get historic charm and walkability, but often with less square footage and a smaller yard. It's a classic seller's market with high competition for desirable properties.
Mission: For $292k, you’re getting a classic suburban single-family home, likely with a yard, garage, and more square footage. The Housing Index of 57.0 indicates that housing is very affordable relative to the national average. The market is more balanced, giving buyers a bit more breathing room.

Renting

This isn’t even a competition. Mission is the clear winner for renters. At $781 for a one-bedroom, the rent is less than half of Philadelphia’s. If you’re not ready to buy or simply prefer the flexibility of renting, Mission offers a financial advantage that’s hard to ignore.

Verdict:

Buyers: For more space and a yard, choose Mission. For urban living and historic charm, choose Philadelphia.
Renters: Mission is the undisputed financial champion.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

Traffic and Commute

Philadelphia: The commute can be a grind. Traffic on I-95, I-76, and the Schuylkill Expressway is notoriously heavy. Public transit (SEPTA) is extensive but can be unreliable. A 30-minute commute can easily turn into an hour during rush hour.
Mission: The commute is a breeze. You’re a short drive from Kansas City’s downtown core. Traffic exists, but it’s not the soul-crushing gridlock of a major East Coast city. The average commute is significantly shorter and less stressful.

Weather

Philadelphia: Get ready for four distinct seasons, and they can be harsh. Winters bring an average of 13 inches of snow and biting winds. Summers are hot and humid, often pushing into the 90°F range. Spring and fall are beautiful but can be unpredictable.
Mission: The weather is a major selling point. With an average temperature of 72°F, Mission enjoys a much more temperate climate. Winters are milder (though occasional snowfall occurs), and summers are warm but generally less humid than Philly’s. If you hate shoveling snow and high humidity, Mission wins hands down.

Crime and Safety

This is a critical category where we must be direct.

Philadelphia: The violent crime rate is 726.5 incidents per 100,000 people. This is significantly higher than the national average and is a reality of living in a major urban center. Crime varies drastically by neighborhood; some areas are perfectly safe, while others are not. You must research your specific neighborhood.
Mission: The violent crime rate is 446.5 incidents per 100,000 people. While this is still above the national average, it is notably lower than Philadelphia’s. As a suburban community, overall crime is generally lower, and the sense of community contributes to safety.

Verdict on Safety: While no place is perfectly safe, Mission statistically offers a lower risk of violent crime. However, it’s essential to note that crime in Philadelphia is highly localized.

The Verdict: Which City Should You Choose?

After digging into the data and the lifestyle, here’s our final, opinionated verdict.

Winner for Families: Mission, Kansas

Why: The combination of affordable housing (you get a house with a yard for less), lower crime rates, excellent schools (Mission is known for its top-rated school district), and a quieter, community-focused lifestyle makes Mission the ideal choice for raising a family. The financial breathing room is a massive bonus.

Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Philadelphia

Why: While Mission is cheaper, it lacks the social infrastructure, nightlife, and career opportunities that a city like Philadelphia provides. Philly’s dating scene, endless bars, restaurants, concert venues, and networking opportunities are unmatched in the region. For a young professional who wants to be in the thick of it, Philadelphia is the place to be.

Winner for Retirees: Mission, Kansas

Why: Retirees on a fixed income will find their money goes much further in Mission. The milder weather reduces physical strain and heating costs. The lower crime and quiet environment offer peace of mind. While Philadelphia has great museums and walkable neighborhoods, the stress of city living and higher costs can be a burden in retirement.

Final Pros & Cons

Philadelphia: The Urban Powerhouse

Pros:

World-Class Culture: Unrivaled museums, history, and dining.
Walkable & Transit-Friendly: You can live without a car in many neighborhoods.
Career Opportunities: Massive job market in healthcare, education, tech, and finance.
Sports & Entertainment: Die-hard sports fans and constant events.
Diversity & Energy: A vibrant, melting-pot atmosphere.

Cons:

High Cost of Living: Especially for housing (rent is steep).
Traffic & Commute: Can be brutal and time-consuming.
Higher Crime: Requires careful neighborhood selection and vigilance.
Harsh Winters: Cold, snowy winters with a long commute.

Mission, Kansas: The Affordable Haven