Darby, PA vs Freeland, PA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Freeland is 24.5% cheaper than Darby. With a cost index of 68 vs 85, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Freeland to Darby should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Darby is $1,337/month compared to $904/month in Freeland — a 48% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Freeland is more affordable at $97,100 median vs $101,900.

Median household income in Darby is $45,128 compared to $51,810 in Freeland (-12.9%). Freeland offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Darby spend roughly 35.6% of their income on rent, more than the 20.9% in Freeland. The Freeland ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.