Laurel, MS vs Philadelphia, MS

Philadelphia is moderately more affordable than Laurel, with a 5.8% lower cost of living index. Laurel scores 66 compared to 62 for Philadelphia, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Laurel can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Laurel is $839/month compared to $760/month in Philadelphia — a 10% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Philadelphia is more affordable at $95,600 median vs $110,200.

Median household income in Laurel is $37,781 compared to $36,781 in Philadelphia (+2.7%). Laurel does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Laurel spend roughly 26.6% of their income on rent, more than the 24.8% in Philadelphia.

Climate-wise, Laurel is notably warmer with an average of 66.5°F compared to 63.2°F in Philadelphia. Laurel receives more rainfall at 58.9" per year compared to 58.2" in Philadelphia.