đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Quincy and Philadelphia
Head-to-Head Analysis
Quincy vs Philadelphia
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Quincy | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $92,085 | $60,302 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.7% | 4.7% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $687,500 | $270,375 |
| Price per SqFt | $416 | $204 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $2,377 | $1,451 |
| Housing Cost Index | 148.2 | 117.8 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 104.7 | 100.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $2.83 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 234.0 | 726.5 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 52.6% | 35.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 38 | 40 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Philadelphia vs. Quincy: The Ultimate East Coast Showdown
Let's cut through the noise. You’re trying to decide between Philadelphia and Quincy. This isn't just about picking a dot on a map; it's about choosing a lifestyle. One is a gritty, historic powerhouse that fuels the Mid-Atlantic. The other is a polished, affluent coastal gem just south of Boston.
I’ve crunched the numbers, walked the streets (virtually and literally), and laid it all out. Grab your coffee, and let’s dive in.
The Vibe Check: Grit vs. Gloss
Philadelphia is the underdog that punches above its weight. It’s a city of neighborhoods, defined by a fierce sense of local pride (looking at you, South Philly) and a no-nonsense attitude. It’s fast-paced but not soul-crushing like Manhattan. You’ll find world-class museums, legendary cheesesteaks, and a blue-collar history that’s palpable in the brick and mortar. It’s for the person who values cultural depth, walkability, and urban energy without the astronomical price tag of NYC or D.C.
Quincy is the definition of "polished." It’s a coastal city (technically a peninsula) that feels like a permanent vacation for the wealthy. It’s clean, historic (John Adams was born here), and offers stunning waterfront views. The vibe is quieter, more family-oriented, and deeply connected to the Boston metro area. It’s for the person who craves coastal serenity, top-tier schools, and proximity to a major tech/finance hub (Boston) without the chaos of living in the city proper.
Who is it for?
- Philly: Young professionals, culture hounds, history buffs, and anyone who wants a major city experience on a mid-sized budget.
- Quincy: Established families, maritime lovers, Boston commuters, and those who prioritize safety and scenic beauty over urban grit.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Go?
This is where the rubber meets the road. Quincy’s median income is nearly 50% higher than Philly’s, but so is everything else. Let’s break down the cold, hard cash.
The Cost of Living Showdown
Here’s a direct comparison of core expenses. We’re using Philadelphia as the baseline (100) to highlight the differences.
| Category | Philadelphia | Quincy | The Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $270,375 | $687,500 | Quincy is 154% more expensive to buy. That’s not a gap—it’s a canyon. |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,451 | $2,377 | Renting in Quincy costs 64% more per month. |
| Housing Index | 117.8 (vs US avg) | 148.2 (vs US avg) | Quincy’s housing market is 25% more expensive relative to the national average. |
| Utilities | ~$170/mo | ~$210/mo | Quincy edges out Philly here, likely due to older housing stock and coastal weather. |
| Groceries | ~$400/mo | ~$450/mo | A 12% premium in Quincy, reflecting the higher cost of living in Massachusetts. |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
Let’s run a scenario. You earn $100,000 a year.
- In Philadelphia: Your paycheck feels robust. The median home price is 2.7x the median income. With a $100k salary, you’re well above average and can afford a comfortable lifestyle, save for a home, and enjoy the city’s amenities. Your purchasing power is strong.
- In Quincy: Your $100k salary feels... average. The median home price is 7.5x the median income. You’re competing with a high-income demographic and Boston salaries. While you’ll live comfortably, owning a home is a significant stretch without a dual income or substantial savings. Your purchasing power is diminished.
Tax Insight: Both cities have state income taxes. Massachusetts has a flat 5% income tax. Pennsylvania has a flat 3.07% tax. This gives Philly a slight edge in take-home pay, further boosting your purchasing power there.
Verdict on Dollar Power:
Philadelphia wins, and it’s not even close. If you want your salary to stretch further, buy a home without being house-poor, and simply get more bang for your buck, Philly is the clear financial choice. Quincy is for those with higher incomes who can absorb the cost of living.
The Housing Market: To Buy or Rent?
Philadelphia:
The market is competitive but accessible. With a median home price under $300k, homeownership is a realistic goal for many. You’ll find a mix of historic rowhomes (that need some love), modern condos, and single-family homes in the suburbs. It’s a buyer’s market in many neighborhoods, meaning you have negotiating power. Renting is a popular and viable option, with decent inventory.
Quincy:
This is a seller’s market with high barriers to entry. The median home price of $687,500 is daunting. Inventory is tighter, and competition is fierce, especially for waterfront or move-in-ready properties. You’re paying a premium for location and prestige. Renting is common but expensive—many opt to rent while saving for a future purchase or while working in Boston.
Key Insight: In Philly, you can often buy a home for what you’d pay for a 2-bedroom rental in Quincy. That’s a massive life-altering difference.
Housing Winner:
Philadelphia. It offers a pathway to ownership that is simply out of reach for the average person in Quincy.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
- Philadelphia: Traffic can be brutal, especially on I-95 and the Schuylkill Expressway. However, the city is exceptionally walkable, and public transit (SEPTA) is extensive. If you live and work in the city, you can often ditch the car.
- Quincy: Commuting to Boston is the primary concern. You’re looking at a 20-40 minute drive (with traffic) or hopping on the T (Red Line) for a roughly 30-40 minute ride. Traffic on I-93 is legendary. You’ll likely need a car for daily life.
Weather
- Philadelphia: Has a true four seasons. Summers can be hot and humid (90°F+), winters see snow (avg 13.7 inches), and spring/fall are beautiful. It’s inland, so humidity is a factor.
- Quincy: Coastal moderation keeps it slightly cooler in summer and warmer in winter than Philly. It’s 48°F on average, but the humid continental climate brings Nor'easters (heavy snow/rain) and chilly, damp winters. Less extreme heat, but more nor'easter drama.
Crime & Safety
This is a critical, honest look at the data.
- Philadelphia: Violent crime rate is 726.5 per 100k. This is significantly higher than the national average. Safety varies drastically by neighborhood. Areas like Society Hill and the Northeast are very safe, while others struggle. It requires street smarts and research.
- Quincy: Violent crime rate is 234.0 per 100k. This is much closer to the national average and is notably safer than Philadelphia. It’s a generally safe, family-friendly city.
Dealbreaker Verdict:
For Safety, Quincy wins decisively. For Commute & Walkability, Philadelphia wins if you work locally. For Weather, it’s a tie based on preference (coastal vs. inland).
Pros & Cons: The Final Breakdown
Philadelphia: The Underdog Champion
Pros:
- Incredible Affordability: Median home price under $300k is a rarity for a major East Coast city.
- Walkable & Transit-Rich: You can live a full life without a car.
- Cultural Powerhouse: World-class museums, food scene, and history at every turn.
- Strong Job Market: Diverse economy with healthcare, education, and tech.
- Purchasing Power: Your salary goes much, much further.
Cons:
- High Crime: The violent crime rate is a serious concern and varies widely.
- City Services & Schools: Can be inconsistent depending on the neighborhood.
- Urban Grime: It’s a big city with the expected noise, litter, and grit.
- Traffic: Getting in/out of the city can be a nightmare.
Quincy: The Polished Contender
Pros:
- Stunning Scenery: Waterfront views, parks, and a cleaner aesthetic.
- Top-Tier Schools: Excellent public education system, a huge draw for families.
- Safety: Violent crime is manageable and much lower than Philly’s.
- Boston Access: A prime commuter base for one of the world’s leading economic hubs.
- Historic Charm: Rich in American history with a more subdued, upscale vibe.
Cons:
- Sticker Shock: Homes cost more than double Philly’s median. Rent is punishing.
- Car Dependency: You’ll need a car for daily errands and commuting.
- Coastal Weather: Nor'easters and humid summers can be draining.
- Less Urban Energy: Quieter, more suburban feel within a city’s boundaries.
- Competitive Market: Buying a home requires deep pockets and patience.
The Final Verdict: Which City is for You?
After weighing the data, the culture, and the costs, here’s my final breakdown.
🏆 Winner for Families: Quincy
- Why: The trifecta of top-rated schools, significantly lower crime rates, and a family-oriented community is hard to beat. While the cost is high, it’s an investment in a stable, safe, and enriching environment for children. The access to Boston’s resources is a bonus.
🏆 Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Philadelphia
- Why: This is a no-brainer. You can afford to live alone in a vibrant neighborhood, enjoy a world-class city’s amenities, and build a career without being crushed by rent. The social scene is diverse, and your friends from NYC or D.C. can actually visit without going broke. It’s the city of opportunity without the oppression of cost.
🏆 Winner for Retirees: It Depends (But Philly has the edge on budget)
- Quincy is ideal if you have a healthy retirement nest egg and value healthcare proximity (Boston hospitals), safety, and scenic beauty. It’s peaceful and well-serviced.
- Philadelphia is the smarter choice if you’re on a fixed income. Lower property taxes (on a cheaper home), excellent healthcare (Penn, Jefferson), and walkability mean you can maintain an active lifestyle without needing to drive everywhere. The cost of living is simply more manageable.
The Bottom Line:
Choose Quincy if you can afford the premium for safety, schools, and coastal New England charm. Choose Philadelphia if you want the energy, history, and affordability of a major city, and you’re willing to trade some grit for a lot more financial freedom.
It’s not just about where you live—it’s about how you want to live. Choose wisely.