Quality of Life in Philadelphia, PA on a $35,870 Annual Salary

Overview of Income in Philadelphia

• Median Salary Comparison: The median household income in Philadelphia is around $50,000, which indicates that a $35,870 salary is below the city average.
• Disposable Income: With this salary, residents may have limited disposable income after covering basic expenses.

Cost of Living

• Overall Cost Index: The cost of living in Philadelphia is slightly above the national average, primarily influenced by housing, transportation, and utilities.
• Key Expenses:
  • Groceries and Transportation: These are relatively comparable to the national average but can still strain a limited budget.
  • Utilities: Often moderately priced in relation to other urban areas in the U.S., though the cost can vary with seasonal changes.

Housing Market

• Rent and Home Prices:
  • Renting an apartment or home in Philadelphia can be relatively steep, with average rents for a one-bedroom apartment significantly over $1,000 per month.
  • The median home price is above national averages, making homeownership challenging on a $35,870 salary.
• Affordable Housing: Options are limited, and securing affordable housing may require living farther from central business districts or considering shared housing solutions.

Quality of Life

• Entertainment and Dining: Philadelphia offers a wide range of cultural activities, but budget constraints may limit frequent participation in dining out or attending events.
• Public Parks and Libraries: The city provides accessible public spaces and libraries, offering low-cost recreational options.

Access to Healthcare

• Healthcare Access: While Philadelphia has numerous high-quality healthcare facilities, the cost of healthcare and insurance can be high, particularly for those with limited income.
• Public Health Services: Some services are available for lower-income individuals, but the availability and quality can sometimes be inconsistent.

Quality of K-12 Schools

• Public Schools: The quality of public K-12 education in Philadelphia varies widely, with some schools struggling with resources and others performing at a high level.
• Private and Charter Schools: These can provide alternative options, though they might not be financially feasible on a $35,870 salary.

Summary

Living on a $35,870 salary in Philadelphia presents challenges due to the cost of living, particularly in housing. Affordable healthcare access and varied school quality can impact overall life satisfaction.