Category / Metric	Mount Pleasant	Philadelphia
Financial Overview
Median Income	$127,357	$60,302
Unemployment Rate	4.6%	4.7%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$848,750	$270,375
Price per SqFt	$380	$204
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$1,106	$1,451
Housing Cost Index	123.3	117.8
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	95.6	100.3
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$3.40
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	178.0	726.5
Bachelor's Degree+	—	35.7%
Air Quality (AQI)	38	40

Philadelphia vs. Mount Pleasant: The Ultimate Relocation Showdown

Choosing between Philadelphia and Mount Pleasant isn’t just picking a city; it’s picking a lifestyle. Are you chasing the electric buzz of a major metropolis, or the polished, coastal charm of a Southern gem? This isn’t a choice between two similar places—it’s a choice between two completely different worlds. As your Relocation Expert, I’ve crunched the numbers, felt the vibes, and I’m here to give you the unfiltered truth to help you decide where to call home.

The Vibe Check: Fast-Paced Metro vs. Laid-Back Coastal Town

Philadelphia is where history meets hustle. It’s the gritty, no-nonsense City of Brotherly Love that gives you big-city amenities without the soul-crushing price tag of NYC or Boston. Think world-class museums, an insane food scene (cheesesteaks are just the start), and a palpable energy. It’s for the person who wants to feel the pulse of a city, who thrives on walkability, and who doesn’t mind a little urban edge. You’re investing in culture, convenience, and a legacy that’s centuries deep. It’s perfect for young professionals, history buffs, and anyone who wants a major city experience on a (slightly) more manageable budget.

Mount Pleasant is the picture of Southern livability. It’s a suburb of Charleston, SC, that has become a destination in its own right. The vibe is polished, friendly, and deeply connected to the water. Life moves at a different pace here—think weekend farmer’s markets, waterfront parks, and a community feel that’s hard to find in a major metro. It’s for the person who prioritizes safety, top-tier public schools, and a relaxed, family-friendly environment. You’re investing in quality of life, outdoor activities, and a sense of place that feels both established and welcoming. It’s ideal for families, retirees, and those who want a scenic, low-stress setting.

Who is each city for?

Philadelphia: The urban explorer, the career-driven professional, the budget-conscious foodie, the history lover.
Mount Pleasant: The family-centric planner, the retiree seeking comfort, the outdoor enthusiast, the one who values safety and community above all.

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

This is where the rubber meets the road. Let’s talk purchasing power. The data tells a fascinating story of two cities with vastly different income and cost structures.

Cost of Living & Salary Comparison Table

Category	Philadelphia	Mount Pleasant	Winner
Median Household Income	$60,302	$127,357	Mount Pleasant
Median Home Price	$270,375	$848,750	Philadelphia
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$1,451	$1,106	Mount Pleasant
Housing Index (100 = US Avg)	117.8	123.3	Philadelphia (Slightly Cheaper)
Violent Crime (per 100k)	726.5	178.0	Mount Pleasant
Avg. Annual Weather (°F)	52.0°F	57.0°F	Tie (Personal Pref.)

Salary Wars & The Tax Factor:
Here’s the kicker. Mount Pleasant boasts a median income nearly double that of Philadelphia. However, the cost of living, especially in housing, is also significantly higher. Let’s break down the math.

If you earn the median income in each city:

In Philadelphia ($60k), your $270k home costs roughly 4.5x your annual income.
In Mount Pleasant ($127k), your $848k home costs roughly 6.7x your annual income.

This suggests that while salaries are higher in Mount Pleasant, the housing market absorbs a larger portion of that income. Philadelphia offers more "bang for your buck" in terms of housing affordability relative to local wages.

The Tax Twist: This is a massive dealbreaker. Pennsylvania has a flat state income tax of 3.07%, plus local wage taxes (around 1-4% depending on the municipality). South Carolina, however, has a graduated income tax that tops out at 7%. BUT, Mount Pleasant is in Charleston County, where the total income tax burden can be lower depending on your bracket. More importantly, Pennsylvania has a 6% sales tax, while South Carolina's is 6% as well. The real difference is in property taxes and overall tax burden, which can be complex. For most middle-income earners, the lack of a state income tax in Texas (a common comparison) doesn't apply here—both states have income tax, but the structures differ.

The Verdict on Purchasing Power: If you're earning a high salary, Mount Pleasant's higher income ceiling is attractive. But for the average earner, Philadelphia's lower housing costs relative to income provide better immediate purchasing power. You'll likely get more space for your money in Philly, but you'll pay for it in higher taxes and lower median income.

The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent Analysis

Philadelphia:

Buyer's Market? Sort of. The median home price of $270,375 is incredibly reasonable for a major East Coast city. However, the market is competitive, especially for desirable row homes in neighborhoods like Fishtown, Graduate Hospital, or Queen Village. You're not just buying a house; you're buying into a specific, walkable neighborhood ecosystem. Inventory moves fast, and bidding wars aren't uncommon, but the entry point is accessible.
Renting: With a large student population and young professional base, the rental market is robust. The $1,451 rent for a 1BR is mid-range for a city of its size. You have options from luxury high-rises to historic brownstones. Renting is a great way to test neighborhoods before committing.

Mount Pleasant:

Buyer's Market? This is a Seller's Market, through and through. A median home price of $848,750 puts it in the luxury tier for most Americans. The desirability of the Charleston area, combined with limited coastal land, drives prices sky-high. Competition is fierce, and cash offers are common. You're buying into an exclusive lifestyle, and the price reflects that.
Renting: Interestingly, the rent ($1,106) is lower than in Philadelphia. This is a classic case of high home prices forcing more people into the rental market, but with a limited supply of rental units (it's a suburb, not a dense city), keeping prices somewhat stable but competitive. Finding a quality rental can be a challenge.

Housing Verdict: Philadelphia wins for accessibility. You can realistically buy a home there on a moderate salary. Mount Pleasant is a high-barrier-to-entry market, requiring significant capital or a high income. For renters, Philadelphia offers more volume and variety, while Mount Pleasant offers slightly cheaper rent but less choice.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

Traffic & Commute

Philadelphia: Traffic can be brutal, especially on I-76 (the Schuylkill Expressway) and I-95. The public transit system (SEPTA) is extensive but aging and can be unreliable. A commute from the suburbs into Center City can be manageable, but intra-city commutes can be a headache. Walkability is a huge plus in many neighborhoods.
Mount Pleasant: Traffic is the #1 complaint for locals. The I-526 corridor and the James Island/Arbor Bridge are notorious bottlenecks. The entire region is car-dependent. Commuting to downtown Charleston (10-20 minutes) is easy without traffic, but during rush hour, it can double. There is virtually no public transit to speak of.

Weather

Philadelphia: Experiences all four seasons distinctly. Winters see snow and temps in the 30s, summers are hot and humid (often 90°F+ with high humidity). Spring and fall are gorgeous. You need a robust wardrobe for all seasons.
Mount Pleasant: Classic humid subtropical climate. Summers are long, hot, and humid (regularly 90°F+), with a high risk of hurricanes. Winters are mild (rarely freezing), but can be damp and chilly. Spring and fall are delightful. You live with the humidity year-round.

Crime & Safety

This is the most stark contrast.

Philadelphia: The violent crime rate is 726.5 per 100,000. This is significantly above the national average. Safety varies wildly by neighborhood. Areas like Center City, Fairmount, and many parts of West Philly are generally safe, while others have higher crime rates. You must be savvy about where you live and walk.
Mount Pleasant: The violent crime rate is 178.0 per 100,000, which is well below the national average. It's consistently ranked as one of the safest towns of its size in the U.S. This is a massive selling point for families and retirees.

Dealbreaker Verdict: Safety is Mount Pleasant's knockout punch. If low crime is your top priority, the choice is clear. If you can tolerate higher crime in exchange for urban amenities and walkability, Philadelphia is viable. Weather is a toss-up (cold vs. humid heat). Commute is a headache in both, but in different ways.

The Final Verdict: Who Wins Where?

After weighing the data, the culture, and the real-world trade-offs, here’s the breakdown.

🏆 Winner for Families: Mount Pleasant

Why: The data doesn't lie. The violent crime rate of 178/100k is a game-changer for parents. Combined with top-rated public schools, abundant parks, and a tight-knit community feel, it's designed for family life. You pay a premium for it, but the safety and education are unparalleled.

🏆 Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: Philadelphia

Why: The energy, the walkability, the cost of entry (both in rent and home prices), and the sheer volume of things to do make it the obvious choice. You can live in a vibrant neighborhood, walk to a dozen bars and restaurants, and build a career without being priced out. The higher crime rate is a concern, but it's a risk many are willing to take for the urban experience.

🏆 Winner for Retirees: Mount Pleasant

Why: This is a close call, but Mount Pleasant edges it out. The mild winters (no shoveling!), low crime, excellent healthcare (near Charleston), and slower pace of life are retiree catnip. Philadelphia offers world-class museums and culture, but the harsh winters and higher crime can be a deterrent as you age. Mount Pleasant provides a serene, comfortable, and safe environment to enjoy your golden years.

Pros & Cons: At a Glance

Philadelphia: The Urban Powerhouse

PROS:

Affordable Housing: Median home price of $270,375 is a steal for an East Coast city.
Walkability & Transit: Many neighborhoods are highly walkable; SEPTA provides decent coverage.
World-Class Culture: Museums (the Art Museum!), history (Liberty Bell), food scene, and sports.
Job Market: Diverse economy with strong sectors in healthcare, education, and finance.
Vibrant Energy: There's always something happening.

CONS:

High Crime: Violent crime rate of 726.5/100k requires vigilance.
Traffic & Commute: Congestion is a major issue.
Aging Infrastructure: Public transit and roads can be in disrepair.
PA Taxes: Combined state and local income taxes can be a burden.

Mount Pleasant: The Coastal Sanctuary