Portsmouth vs Philadelphia

Category / Metric	Portsmouth	Philadelphia
Financial Overview
Median Income	$57,109	$60,302
Unemployment Rate	3.5%	4.7%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$275,000	$270,375
Price per SqFt	$186	$204
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$1,287	$1,451
Housing Cost Index	97.5	117.8
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	96.7	100.3
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$3.40
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	208.4	726.5
Bachelor's Degree+	28.3%	35.7%
Air Quality (AQI)	30	40

Philadelphia vs. Portsmouth: The Ultimate East Coast Showdown

Alright, let's cut to the chase. You're staring down two East Coast heavyweights, but they couldn't be more different. Philadelphia is the gritty, big-city powerhouse of the Northeast. Portsmouth is the charming, coastal gem of New England. One is a sprawling metro with 1.5 million people; the other is a tight-knit community of 96,793.

Choosing between them isn't just about numbers—it's about the rhythm of your life. Do you want the relentless energy of a major city, or the laid-back, salty-air vibe of a coastal town? Let's dig into the data, the lifestyle, and the real-world trade-offs to help you decide where to plant your roots.

The Vibe Check: Big City Grit vs. Coastal Charm

Philadelphia is a city with chips on its shoulders and history in its bones. It’s the underdog of the Northeast, often overshadowed by NYC and D.C., but it’s got a soul that’s all its own. Think world-class museums (the Barnes Foundation!), legendary cheesesteaks, and a neighborhood for every mood—from the hipster havens of Fishtown to the historic rowhouses of Society Hill. Life here is fast-paced, walkable, and unapologetically urban. It’s a city for people who crave culture, diversity, and the feeling of being at the center of it all.

Portsmouth, on the other hand, is the definition of coastal New England charm. Picture cobblestone streets, 18th-century architecture, a bustling waterfront, and more oysters than you can shake a stick at. It’s a city that feels like a town. Life moves at a gentler pace, centered around the harbor, local breweries, and weekend trips to nearby beaches. It’s a haven for those who prioritize a close-knit community, outdoor recreation, and a picture-perfect aesthetic.

Who is each city for?

• Philadelphia is for the ambitious professional, the culture vulture, the foodie, and anyone who thrives on the energy of a major metro. It’s for people who want big-city amenities without the Manhattan price tag.
• Portsmouth is for the remote worker, the retiree, the coastal lifestyle enthusiast, and those seeking a high quality of life in a smaller, safer package. It’s for people who value community, scenery, and a slower, more intentional pace.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Go Further?

This is where the rubber meets the road. Let's talk purchasing power. The median home price in both cities is shockingly similar—$270,375 in Philly vs. $275,000 in Portsmouth. But the story behind those numbers is wildly different.

Philadelphia offers more bang for your buck in the housing market. With a Housing Index of 117.8, it’s more expensive than the national average, but it’s still a major city where $270k can get you a decent rowhouse or condo. Portsmouth’s index of 97.5 suggests it’s slightly below the national average, but that median price is for a much smaller, more competitive market. In Portsmouth, $275k likely gets you a smaller condo or a home needing work, not the sprawling property you might imagine.

Rental costs tell a similar story. Philly’s $1,451 for a 1-bedroom is steep but reasonable for a top-20 U.S. city. Portsmouth’s $1,287 is a better deal, but remember, the supply is tiny. Competition is fierce.

Salary Wars & The Tax Hit
Both cities have similar median incomes—Philly at $60,302 and Portsmouth at $57,109. But here’s the massive, dealbreaking difference: Taxes.

• Philadelphia is in Pennsylvania. You’ll pay state income tax (a flat 3.07%), local Philadelphia wage tax (3.75% for residents), and property taxes that are relatively high but capped by programs like the Homestead Exemption.
• Portsmouth is in New Hampshire. New Hampshire has NO state income tax on wages. It also has no sales tax. The trade-off? Extremely high property taxes. New Hampshire relies heavily on property taxes to fund everything, and Rockingham County (where Portsmouth is) has some of the highest rates in the nation.

The $100k Salary Test:
Let’s run a quick scenario. If you earn $100,000 in gross salary:

• In Philadelphia: After federal, state (3.07%), and local (3.75%) taxes, your take-home pay is roughly $72,000. Your cost of living (rent, utilities, groceries) is higher.
• In Portsmouth: After federal taxes only, your take-home pay is roughly $77,000. That’s an extra $5,000 in your pocket annually. However, that extra cash will be quickly swallowed by New Hampshire’s sky-high property taxes—whether you own or rent (landlords pass those costs on).

Verdict: If you’re a high earner who rents, Portsmouth’s tax advantage is real. If you’re buying a home, you must run the numbers meticulously. Philly’s higher income tax is a predictable expense; Portsmouth’s property tax is a variable that can sting.

Expense	Philadelphia	Portsmouth	Winner
Median Home Price	$270,375	$275,000	Philadelphia (Slightly more affordable)
Rent (1BR)	$1,451	$1,287	Portsmouth (Better rental deal)
Housing Index	117.8 (vs US 100)	97.5 (vs US 100)	Portsmouth (Better value nationally)
Median Income	$60,302	$57,109	Philadelphia (Higher earning potential)
Key Tax	3.07% State + 3.75% Local Income Tax	0% State Income Tax (High Property Tax)	Depends on your situation

The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent & Competition

Buying a Home:

• Philadelphia: A buyer’s market with more inventory. You have negotiating power. The challenge is finding a move-in-ready home in a desirable neighborhood for under $300k—it’s possible, but competition is rising in hot areas like Fishtown and Graduate Hospital. Property taxes are a known quantity.
• Portsmouth: A fierce seller’s market. Inventory is incredibly low. Bidding wars are common, and cash offers often win. The $275,000 median is a statistical average; a decent single-family home in a good school district often starts at $400k+. You’ll have to be aggressive and patient.

Renting:

• Philadelphia: More options, a wider range of prices, and more professional management companies. The rental market is robust.
• Portsmouth: Tight, tight, tight. Most rentals are in older buildings or small complexes. You’ll likely be competing with other renters, and you need to act fast. The $1,287 average is a good price, but it’s for limited stock.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

Traffic & Commute:

• Philadelphia: Traffic is significant. The Schuylkill and Vine Street Expressways are notorious bottlenecks. However, Philly has one of the best public transit systems in the U.S. (SEPTA), making a car optional for many. Commutes from the suburbs are manageable.
• Portsmouth: Traffic is minimal, except during peak tourist season (summer). The commute is a breeze. Most trips are under 15 minutes. However, you are dependent on a car. Public transit is limited.

Weather:
Both cities have a 52°F average, but the experience is different.

• Philadelphia: Classic Mid-Atlantic. Hot, humid summers (90°F+) and cold, snowy winters. Four distinct seasons with all the trimmings.
• Portsmouth: Maritime climate. Winters are cold with Nor'easters (heavy snow, wind), but less extreme snowfall than inland New England. Summers are warm, humid, and glorious, with ocean breezes. Fog is common.

Crime & Safety:
This is the most stark contrast.

• Philadelphia: Violent crime rate is 726.5 per 100,000. This is high, above the national average. Safety varies dramatically by neighborhood. Some areas are incredibly safe and family-friendly; others face significant challenges. You must do your neighborhood research.
• Portsmouth: Violent crime rate is 208.4 per 100,000. This is significantly lower than the national average and a fraction of Philly’s rate. Portsmouth is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in New Hampshire. This is a major point in its favor for families and retirees.

The Final Verdict: Which City Wins for You?

After weighing the grit against the charm, the taxes against the safety, here’s the final call.

🏆 Winner for Families: Portsmouth
The safety factor is the deciding factor. With a violent crime rate 3.5x lower than Philadelphia’s, plus excellent public schools and a tight-knit community, Portsmouth offers a secure, high-quality environment for raising kids. The trade-off is higher housing costs and a smaller town feel, but for many families, safety is non-negotiable.

🏆 Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Philadelphia
If you’re in your 20s or 30s and building your career, Philadelphia is the place. The density, the networking opportunities, the endless nightlife and cultural events, and the (relatively) affordable housing create a dynamic environment for growth and fun. The higher energy and larger dating pool are undeniable advantages.

🏆 Winner for Retirees: Portsmouth
For retirees, quality of life, safety, and walkability are paramount. Portsmouth’s lower crime, scenic beauty, and manageable size make it a peaceful and engaging place to spend your golden years. The lack of state income tax on retirement income is a huge financial bonus. Philadelphia’s hustle and bustle can be overwhelming for those seeking a slower pace.

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Pros & Cons: At a Glance

Philadelphia

PROS:

• Big-City Amenities: World-class museums, sports, food scene.
• Major Transit Hub: Easy access to NYC, D.C., and the airport.
• Strong Job Market: Diverse economy in healthcare, finance, tech, and education.
• Historic & Walkable: Rich history and many walkable neighborhoods.
• Cultural Diversity: One of the most diverse cities in the U.S.

CONS:

• High Crime: Safety varies drastically by neighborhood; research is crucial.
• City Taxes: The combined wage tax is a hit to your take-home pay.
• Traffic & Congestion: Can be frustrating, though public transit helps.
• Urban Wear: Some areas show signs of decline and require investment.

Portsmouth

PROS:

• Extremely Safe: One of the safest cities in New England.
• No Income Tax: Keep more of your paycheck (if you earn it in NH).
• Natural Beauty: Coastal living, beaches, hiking, and scenic views.
• Clean & Charming: Beautiful historic downtown, excellent quality of life.
• Small-Town Feel: Strong sense of community and local pride.

CONS:

• High Property Taxes: The trade-off for no income tax can be steep for homeowners.
• Limited Housing Inventory: Very competitive, expensive real estate market.
• Isolation: Far from major metros (2 hrs to Boston, 5+ hrs to NYC).
• Seasonal Tourism: Summer crowds can clog the charming streets.
• Car Dependency: Public transit is minimal; you need a car for daily life.

The Bottom Line: Choose Philadelphia for career growth, urban energy, and cultural depth. Choose Portsmouth for safety, natural beauty, and a high quality of life in a smaller package. Your lifestyle, career stage, and tolerance for crime vs. cost will be the ultimate tie-breakers.