đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Sumter and Philadelphia
Head-to-Head Analysis
Sumter vs Philadelphia
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Sumter | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $53,071 | $60,302 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.6% | 4.7% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $263,500 | $270,375 |
| Price per SqFt | $134 | $204 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $933 | $1,451 |
| Housing Cost Index | 54.2 | 117.8 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 95.6 | 100.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 530.7 | 726.5 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 28.6% | 35.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 36 | 40 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Philadelphia vs. Sumter: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
Choosing a place to live is one of the biggest decisions you'll ever make. It’s not just about a roof over your head; it’s about your daily vibe, your bank account, and your future. In this corner, we have the City of Brotherly Love, a gritty, historic, fast-paced metropolis. And in the other corner, the Palmetto City, a small, affordable, Southern hub with a slower pace.
This isn't just a data dump. We're going deep to help you decide. Let’s find out which city truly wins for you.
The Vibe Check: Gritty Metropolis vs. Laid-Back Southern Hub
Philadelphia is a major East Coast city that feels like a living museum. It’s dense, walkable, and packed with world-class museums, legendary sports venues, and a food scene that goes from iconic cheesesteaks to James Beard Award winners. The energy is palpable—think fast-talking locals, a thriving arts district, and a skyline that commands attention. It’s a city for people who crave culture, career opportunities, and the buzz of urban life.
Sumter, South Carolina, is the definition of a Southern small town. It’s known for its military history (Shaw Air Force Base is a major employer) and a deeply rooted community feel. Life moves at a different pace here. Think front porches, wide-open spaces, and a focus on family and local events. It’s a place where you know your neighbors, and stress is measured in traffic jams that last for minutes, not hours. It’s for those seeking affordability, space, and a quieter, more traditional lifestyle.
The Verdict: If you thrive on energy, options, and anonymity, Philadelphia is your playground. If you value community, affordability, and a slower pace, Sumter is your sanctuary.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Go Further?
This is where the rubber meets the road. Let’s talk purchasing power. It’s not just about what you earn, but what that money can actually buy.
Cost of Living Breakdown
| Category | Philadelphia, PA | Sumter, SC | The Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $60,302 | $53,071 | Philadelphia |
| Median Home Price | $270,375 | $263,500 | Sumter (Slightly) |
| Housing Index | 117.8 | 54.2 | Sumter (By a landslide) |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,451 | $933 | Sumter |
| Groceries & Utilities | 20-25% above avg | 5-10% below avg | Sumter |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
Let’s do a quick thought experiment. If you earn $100,000 in Philadelphia, your take-home pay after taxes is roughly $75,000 (PA has a flat 3.07% income tax, plus federal). In Sumter, on the same $100k, your take-home is closer to $78,000 (SC has a progressive tax, but it’s generally lower, and you avoid some of the Philly wage tax).
Now, where does that money feel like more? In Sumter, absolutely. The Housing Index tells the story: Sumter is 54.2, meaning it's 45.8% cheaper than the national average. Philadelphia is 117.8, meaning it's 17.8% more expensive. That’s a massive gap.
In Philly, your $1,451 rent for a 1BR might get you a decent spot in a decent neighborhood, but you’ll compete with a larger pool of renters. In Sumter, your $933 could secure a spacious apartment or even a small house. The sticker shock is real when you move from Sumter to Philly.
The Verdict: For pure purchasing power, Sumter wins decisively. Your $100k salary will feel like $130k in Philly. It’s a no-brainier for maximizing savings and financial comfort.
The Housing Market: Rent vs. Buy
Buy or Rent in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is a seller's market in desirable neighborhoods like Fishtown, Rittenhouse Square, and Queen Village. Median home prices hover around $270,375, but that number is deceptive. In prime areas, you’re looking at $400k+ for a rowhouse. Competition is fierce, and bidding wars are common. Renting is the default for many young professionals and transplants due to high entry costs and the flexibility to explore different neighborhoods. However, Philly’s rowhouse stock offers unique ownership opportunities you can’t find in many modern cities.
Buy or Rent in Sumter?
Sumter is a buyer's market. With a median home price of $263,500 and a housing index of 54.2, buying is incredibly accessible. You get significantly more square footage and land for your money. The rental market is less competitive, with lower prices and more availability. For those looking to plant roots and build equity, Sumter offers a clear path to homeownership without the financial strain of a major metro.
The Verdict: For buying a home, Sumter offers better value and less competition. For renting flexibility in a major city, Philadelphia is the choice, but be prepared for higher costs.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Deep Dive
Traffic & Commute
- Philadelphia: The city is notoriously congested. The average commute is 25-30 minutes, but public transit (SEPTA) is robust and a viable option for many. Traffic on I-76 and I-95 can be brutal during rush hours. Walkability is a major plus in center city.
- Sumter: Traffic is minimal. The average commute is likely under 20 minutes. You’ll almost always drive, but you won’t be sitting in gridlock. It’s a car-dependent city, but the stress of commuting is a fraction of Philly’s.
Weather
- Philadelphia: Experiences all four seasons distinctly. Winters average in the 30s with occasional snow (12-15 inches annually). Summers are hot and humid, often hitting the 90s with high humidity. Spring and fall are beautiful but can be unpredictable.
- Sumter: Has a humid subtropical climate. Winters are mild (40s-50s), with rare snow. Summers are long, hot, and very humid, frequently exceeding 90°F. The growing season is long, but the heat can be a dealbreaker for some.
Crime & Safety
This is a critical, honest conversation. Data must be contextualized.
- Philadelphia: Violent crime rate is 726.5 per 100k. This is high, above the national average. However, crime is hyper-local. It’s concentrated in specific neighborhoods, while others (like Center City, Chestnut Hill) are very safe. It requires street smarts and neighborhood research.
- Sumter: Violent crime rate is 530.7 per 100k. This is also above the national average but lower than Philly’s. In a smaller community, crime can feel more personal, but the sheer volume is less.
The Verdict: Sumter has a lower violent crime rate and less traffic stress. Philadelphia offers better public transit but higher crime in aggregate (though highly neighborhood-dependent). For pure safety and commute ease, Sumter edges out.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins Each Category?
After breaking down the data and the vibe, here’s the final head-to-head tally.
🏆 Winner for Families: Sumter
Why: The math is undeniable. For a family, the combination of lower cost of living, affordable homeownership ($263k median), and safer neighborhoods (with a lower crime rate) is a powerful draw. The slower pace, community focus, and space for kids to play make it an ideal environment for raising a family without the financial squeeze of a major city.
🏆 Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Philadelphia
Why: While more expensive, Philly offers what small towns can’t: endless career opportunities, a vibrant social and dating scene, world-class entertainment, and cultural depth. The ability to live without a car (in many neighborhoods) and the sheer density of people and activities make it the clear choice for career-driven singles who thrive on urban energy.
🏆 Winner for Retirees: Sumter
Why: This is a close call, but Sumter takes it. The lower cost of living stretches retirement savings further. The mild winters are a huge plus for those who want to avoid harsh cold. The slower pace and strong community are perfect for retirement living. While Philly has excellent healthcare, the daily stress, higher costs, and cold winters can be a burden on a fixed income.
At a Glance: Pros & Cons
Philadelphia, PA
Pros:
- Culture & History: Unmatched museums, history, and arts.
- Job Market: Diverse economy with major employers in healthcare, education, and tech.
- Walkability & Transit: Car-free living is possible in many areas.
- Food Scene: From street food to fine dining, it’s a top-tier city.
- Sports: Legendary sports culture.
Cons:
- Cost of Living: Significantly higher than Sumter, especially housing.
- Taxes: City wage tax (3.7978% for residents) adds up.
- Crime: Requires careful neighborhood selection; rates are high.
- Traffic & Congestion: Daily grind can be exhausting.
- Weather: Harsh winters and humid summers.
Sumter, SC
Pros:
- Affordability: One of the most affordable places in the US.
- Housing Value: Get a lot of house for your money.
- Slower Pace: Less stress, more community focus.
- Mild Winters: Escape the deep freeze.
- Safety: Lower crime rate than Philly (though still above avg).
Cons:
- Limited Career Options: Fewer high-paying jobs outside military/defense.
- Limited Culture/Entertainment: Fewer concerts, museums, and dining options.
- Car Dependency: You’ll need a car for almost everything.
- Heat & Humidity: Summers can be brutal.
- Smaller Dating Pool: For singles, the options are limited.
The Bottom Line
This isn't about which city is "better." It's about which city is better for you.
Choose Philadelphia if: You prioritize career growth, cultural experiences, and urban energy. You’re willing to pay a premium for the privilege and can navigate a complex, high-stakes environment. You want a city that feels alive 24/7.
Choose Sumter if: Your priority is financial freedom, space, and a relaxed pace of life. You value community over anonymity and want your dollar to stretch as far as possible. You’re looking for a place to put down roots without the pressure of a major metro.
The data is clear: Sumter wins on affordability and safety. Philadelphia wins on opportunity and culture. Your personal values and life stage will determine the champion. Now, go with your gut—and your budget.