Philadelphia vs Toronto: What’s the Difference?
Philadelphia and Toronto have much in common.
Both are bustling metropolises, separated by miles of open landscape and cultural diversity. These two urban giants also share a common allure, drawing in dreamers, adventurers, and seekers of a better life.
But if you are planning to move, choosing between the two isn’t as easy as deciding what to eat for lunch.
If you appreciate a blend of history and modernity, and you want to be exposed to vibrant arts and cultural scenes, Philadelphia might be the place you’ll call home. But if you thrive in a bustling and diverse environment, Toronto is the better pick.
Here are several comparisons and discussions that led us to draw this conclusion
Philadelphia vs Toronto: What’s the Difference?
Cost of living in Philadelphia vs. Toronto
The average monthly living cost in Philadelphia is 4.9% more expensive than in Toronto. The average monthly living cost in Toronto is $2,348, while it’s $2,463 in Philadelphia.
We broke this data down to make it easier to absorb. Check the table below to statistics from LivingCost.org:
While the difference in the monthly total estimated cost of living in Philadelphia and Toronto is not that big, utility bills and transportation are generally more expensive in Philadelphia.
There’s also a very high demand for housing in Philadelphia but with limited available accommodations. Moreover, their property taxes are also higher than Toronto’s.
Real Estate Prices in Philadelphia vs. Toronto
Toronto’s real estate prices are 329.3% more expensive compared to Philadelphia. Meanwhile, a condo apartment is 43.4% cheaper in Philadelphia.
While the cost of living and rent are relatively cheaper in Toronto, the same can’t be said when it comes to purchasing real estate. Not when the difference between the average cost of a basic house in the two cities is close to a whopping million dollars!
The following factors continue to encourage the price hike of real estate in Toronto: high demand and limited supply, foreign investment, and low-interest rates for house loans.
The table below compares the average price of single-family homes in the suburbs and condo apartments in Philadelphia and Toronto.
Diversity and Demographics in Philadelphia vs. Toronto
In Toronto, 51.5% of the population identifies as a visible minority, while that number is only 39.33% in Philadelphia.
In addition, 48.8% of the population in Toronto speaks a language other than English at home, while it’s only 29.5% in Philadelphia.
Here are statistics gathered from World Population Review to break down the demographic diversity in the two cities:
While the majority of Philadelphia’s population is Black/African-American, Toronto’s population and ethnic groups are much more culturally diverse in comparison.
In terms of both land size and population, Philadelphia is substantially smaller than Toronto. In addition, it has a lower life expectancy at birth and younger median age than Toronto.
Career Opportunities in Philadelphia vs. Toronto
Employment opportunities in Philadelphia are 46.34% higher than Toronto’s. As of 2023, the unemployment rate in Toronto is 6.2%, while it’s 4.1% in Philadelphia.
Despite the lower unemployment rate in Philadelphia, workers in Toronto are paid 4.6% more on average. The average annual salary in Philadelphia is $68,297, while it’s $71,427 in Toronto.
Crime and Safety in Philadelphia vs. Toronto
Toronto is generally safer than Philadelphia in terms of reported violent and property crimes. As of 2022, Toronto’s safety index is 36.85% higher than Philadelphia’s.
Below is a comparison of Philadelphia’s and Toronto’s violent crime rate, property crime rate, and safety index according to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program in 2022.
Philadelphia is among the cities in the United States with high crime rates. Some of the main factors that influence this are poverty, gun violence, and a growing and diverse population.
Lifestyle in Philadelphia vs. Toronto
If you’re looking for a city with a lot of energy, embraces sports, and has a tight-knit community, you’ll fit right in Philadelphia.
But if you’re more of a cosmopolitan and are looking for a city that values inclusivity and multiculturalism, then Toronto is your best bet.
We compared the two urban centres based on a number of factors, including the weather, recreational possibilities, and healthcare services, to get a better idea of the lifestyle each city has to offer.
Weather in Philadelphia vs. Toronto
The weather in Philadelphia and in Toronto is not much different from each other. Both cities are located in the mid-latitudes, meaning both follow the same four-season weather patterns.
If you enjoy summer, Philadelphia might be your best pick. On the other hand, you’ll enjoy Toronto if you’re a winter fan.
The winters in Philadelphia and Toronto are quite similar, with both cities getting plenty of snow. However, the summers in Philadelphia are slightly warmer and more humid than the summers in Toronto.
Things to Do in Philadelphia vs. Toronto
Both Philadelphia and Toronto are keen on sports, entertainment, and offer a wide range of options for outdoor activities.
Philadelphia offers a blend of historical charm and modern attractions, providing a range of recreational activities for residents and visitors alike. Some of the iconic landmarks in the city are the Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
Toronto, on the other hand, embraces its multicultural identity and dynamic city life. It’s a welcoming and educational city for anyone looking for a cosmopolitan lifestyle, cultural encounters, and outdoor excursions.
Healthcare in Philadelphia vs. Toronto
Both Philadelphia and Toronto have robust healthcare systems, but they operate under different healthcare models.
Philadelphia, being in the United States, uses a mix of private and public systems. Most of its citizens rely on private health insurance coverage provided by employers or purchased individually.
The good news is, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health assists low-income residents who can’t afford healthcare.
Toronto has a publicly funded healthcare system called the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). OHIP provides basic healthcare coverage to all residents of Ontario, including primary care, dental care, and mental health services.
There are also a number of private healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices that offer a wider range of services than that covered by the public healthcare system, but they may be more expensive.
Philadelphia vs. Toronto: Unraveling Your Perfect Urban Match
In the end, discovering your ideal city hinges on understanding your personal preferences and priorities. Both cities offer distinctive advantages and drawbacks, underscoring the need to thoughtfully evaluate before arriving at a choice.
Here’s an overview for your reference: