Round Rock vs Philadelphia

Category / Metric	Round Rock	Philadelphia
Financial Overview
Median Income	$102,420	$60,302
Unemployment Rate	4.2%	4.7%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$375,000	$270,375
Price per SqFt	$197	$204
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$1,635	$1,451
Housing Cost Index	126.4	117.8
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	91.9	100.3
Gas Price (Gallon)	$2.35	$3.40
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	189.0	726.5
Bachelor's Degree+	45.9%	35.7%
Air Quality (AQI)	34	40

Philadelphia vs. Round Rock: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown

Alright, let's cut through the noise. You're trying to choose between two cities that are worlds apart in almost every conceivable way. On one side, you've got Philadelphia—the gritty, history-soaked East Coast powerhouse. On the other, Round Rock—the polished, sun-drenched suburb of Austin, Texas. This isn't just a choice of address; it's a choice of lifestyle, pace, and values.

So, grab a coffee (or a sweet tea, depending on where you end up), and let's dive into the data and the vibes to help you make the right call.

The Vibe Check: Grit vs. Gloss

Philadelphia is the city that never forgot its roots. It's where the Declaration of Independence was signed, but it's also where you'll find the cheesesteak, the passionate (and sometimes volatile) sports fans, and a distinct neighborhood feel. It's a major metropolitan hub—the 6th largest city in the U.S. with 1.55 million people—teeming with world-class museums, diverse food scenes, and a palpable sense of history. It's fast-paced, walkable, and has an edge. Think "Rocky" underdog spirit meets Ivy League intellect.

Round Rock, on the other hand, is the essence of modern, planned suburban living. With a population of 131,735, it's a fraction of Philly's size. It's known as the "Home of the World's Best Donuts" (a famous local spot) and the headquarters of Dell Technologies. The vibe here is laid-back, family-oriented, and tech-adjacent. It's clean, green, and built around single-family homes, top-rated schools, and sprawling parks. The energy comes from Austin's music and tech scene, which is just a 30-minute drive south.

Who is each city for?

• Philadelphia is for the urbanist who craves culture, walkability, and a city that feels alive 24/7. It's for those who want history at their doorstep and don't mind a little grit in exchange for a rich, diverse community.
• Round Rock is for the suburban seeker who prioritizes safety, space, and a high quality of life. It's perfect for families, remote workers, and anyone who wants the amenities of a major tech hub (Austin) without the downtown density.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Go Farther?

This is where the rubber meets the road. Let's talk cold, hard cash.

The first thing to understand is the Texas advantage. Texas has no state income tax. Pennsylvania's state income tax is a flat 3.07%. That's a massive, immediate difference in your paycheck.

Let's say you earn a median salary in each city. In Philadelphia, the median income is $60,302. After federal and state taxes (3.07%), your take-home pay is roughly $49,500. In Round Rock, the median income is $102,420. With 0% state income tax, your take-home is closer to $80,000. The gap is staggering.

But does the higher income in Round Rock offset the higher costs? Let's break it down.

Expense Category	Philadelphia	Round Rock	The Takeaway
Median Home Price	$270,375	$375,000	Philly wins on raw price, but the market is intensely competitive (Housing Index: 117.8). Round Rock's market is even hotter (Index: 126.4).
Rent (1BR)	$1,451	$1,635	Rent is about 13% higher in Round Rock, a direct reflection of its booming popularity.
Utilities	~$150-$180/month	~$160-$200/month	Roughly comparable, though Round Rock's air conditioning costs in summer can spike.
Groceries	Slightly below national avg.	At or slightly above national avg.	Philly edges out Round Rock slightly here, thanks to its dense network of markets and competition.

Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
If you earn $100k, where does it feel like more?

• In Philadelphia: Your purchasing power is solid, especially if you're a homeowner locked in at a lower rate. The city's massive, diverse economy offers opportunities in healthcare, education, and finance. However, that 3.07% state tax is a permanent handshake fee.
• In Round Rock: Your $100k goes significantly further after taxes. The lack of state income tax is a permanent financial boost. However, you'll spend a larger chunk of that on housing and rent. The key is that high-paying tech jobs in the Austin metro area can easily push your income well above the median, amplifying the Texas tax advantage.

Verdict on Dollar Power: For pure financial efficiency and take-home pay, Round Rock has the edge due to the 0% state income tax. However, Philadelphia offers a lower entry point for homeownership and slightly cheaper daily expenses, making it potentially more accessible on a lower-to-moderate income if you can navigate the competitive market.

The Housing Market: Buy, Rent, or Squeeze In?

Philadelphia's Market:
This is a tale of two cities. The median home price of $270,375 is deceptively low. For that price, you're looking at a row home in a gentrifying neighborhood or a fixer-upper in a less central area. The desirable, historic neighborhoods (like Queen Village, Fishtown, or Rittenhouse) command prices far above the median. The market is a seller's market with fierce competition, especially for move-in-ready homes under $400k. Renting is viable, but prices are rising steadily.

Round Rock's Market:
The median home price of $375,000 reflects a classic, desirable suburban market. You're getting a modern 3-4 bedroom single-family home in a good school district with a yard and a two-car garage. The housing index of 126.4 indicates it's a very hot seller's market. Bidding wars are common, and inventory is tight. It's a premium market, but you're getting a premium suburban product.

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:

• Buy in Philly: If you're handy, willing to live in an up-and-coming area, and can handle city living, buying can be a great long-term investment. The barrier to entry is lower, but maintenance costs on older homes are higher.
• Buy in Round Rock: If you want a traditional suburban home, good schools, and minimal maintenance, buying here is the goal. It's expensive, but the product is consistent and modern.
• Rent in Both: Renting in either city is a valid strategy, especially given the current market volatility. In Philly, you'll find more varied rental stock (apartments, brownstones). In Round Rock, rentals are often in large complexes or newer single-family homes.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

Traffic & Commute:

• Philadelphia: A public transportation dream compared to most U.S. cities. The SEPTA system (subway, buses, trolleys) is extensive. Many residents live car-free or car-lite. Driving is another story—parking is a nightmare and traffic can be gridlocked. The average commute is 27 minutes.
• Round Rock: You will need a car. Period. The city is designed for driving. Commutes to Austin can be brutal on I-35, with 50+ minute commutes being common during rush hour. However, if you work from home or locally, traffic is manageable.

Weather:

• Philadelphia: Has four distinct seasons. Winters are cold (avg. 52°F is misleading—it's often below freezing with snow). Summers are hot and humid. Spring and fall are gorgeous. Be prepared for layering.
• Round Rock: Subtropical climate. Summers are long, hot, and brutally humid, with temperatures regularly hitting 95-100°F+ for months. Winters are mild (rarely below freezing). The trade-off is less seasonal variation but more intense summer heat.

Crime & Safety:
Let's be direct, as the data demands.

• Philadelphia: The violent crime rate is 726.5 per 100k. This is significantly above the national average. Safety varies drastically by neighborhood. Some areas are perfectly safe, while others have significant challenges. It requires street smarts and research.
• Round Rock: The violent crime rate is 189.0 per 100k. This is well below the national average. It's consistently ranked as one of the safest cities of its size in Texas. This is a major selling point for families.

The Final Verdict: Who Wins This Showdown?

There is no single "winner." The right city is the one that aligns with your non-negotiables. After weighing the data and the lifestyle factors, here’s the final breakdown.

🏆 Winner for Families: Round Rock
Why: This isn't even close. The combination of top-rated schools, substantially lower crime rates (189 vs. 726.5 per 100k), and the classic suburban space (yards, parks, safety) makes it the clear choice. The higher median income and no state income tax provide financial stability for raising a family. You can buy a home in a safe, modern community with excellent schools.

🏆 Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Philadelphia
Why: The energy, culture, and walkability are unmatched. The cost of entry (both for renting and buying) is lower than in Round Rock, allowing for more disposable income for dining out, concerts, and experiences. Philadelphia's dense, diverse neighborhoods foster a sense of community and spontaneity that a car-dependent suburb can't replicate. You can live a vibrant, car-free life if you choose the right neighborhood.

🏆 Winner for Retirees: A Tie (But Leans Round Rock)
Why: This is nuanced.

• Round Rock wins on safety, mild winters (no snow shoveling!), and lower taxes. The healthcare system is strong (proximity to Austin's medical facilities), and the pace is less stressful. However, the summer heat can be punishing, and the car dependency is a burden for some.
• Philadelphia wins on walkability, culture, and healthcare (world-class hospitals like Penn and Jefferson). The four-seasons climate is appealing to many. However, the higher violent crime rate and more challenging winters can be dealbreakers for older adults.

Final Call: For most retirees seeking safety, tax benefits, and a mild climate, Round Rock has the edge. But for the retiree who values urban walkability and cultural amenities above all, Philadelphia remains a compelling option.

---

At a Glance: Pros & Cons

Philadelphia

PROS:

• Vibrant Culture & History: Unbeatable museums, theaters, and historic sites.
• Walkable & Car-Optional: Excellent public transit (SEPTA).
• Lower Entry Point: More affordable median home price than Round Rock.
• Diverse Neighborhoods: Each area has a distinct personality.
• Major City Amenities: Big-league sports, top-tier universities, renowned hospitals.

CONS:

• High Crime: Violent crime rate is a serious concern in many areas.
• Painful Taxes: 3.07% state income tax adds up.
• Aging Infrastructure: Older homes require more upkeep; roads and transit need investment.
• Harsh Winters: Cold, snowy winters can be a grind.
• Parking & Traffic: Driving in the city is notoriously difficult.

Round Rock

PROS:

• Top-Tier Safety: Violent crime rate is exceptionally low.
• Excellent Schools: Consistently high-rated public school system.
• No State Income Tax: A permanent financial boost.
• Family-Friendly: Parks, community events, and a safe environment.
• Proximity to Austin: Access to a world-class city's food, music, and tech scene.

CONS:

• High Cost of Living: Rent and home prices are steep for the area.
• Car Dependency: You cannot live here without a car.
• Brutal Summer Heat: Months of extreme heat and humidity.
• Limited Urban Culture: It's a suburb, not a city center.
• Competitive Housing Market: Bidding wars are common; inventory is tight.