Levittown, PA vs. Upper Darby, PA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
In 2025, renters in Levittown pay nearly $250 less per month compared to similar apartments in Upper Darby. For those weighing the pros and cons of these two Philadelphia suburbs, cost of living is a central factor.
While just 30 miles apart, Levittown and Upper Darby offer distinct lifestyle tradeoffs. Levittown provides more space and a quieter family environment, while Upper Darby delivers urban access and amenities. But which town fits your budget? Let’s break down the key cost of living differences in 2025.
Housing Costs: Levittown Offers More Bang for Your Buck
Housing is the biggest line item in most household budgets, and it’s where Levittown shines. Median rents for a 2-bedroom apartment hover around $1,450 in Levittown compared to nearly $1,700 in Upper Darby. Homebuyers also find better value in Levittown, with typical 3-bedroom homes selling for $325,000 versus $375,000 in Upper Darby.
While both towns have a mix of rentals and owner-occupied homes, Levittown trends more affordable across all housing types. Newer construction in outlying Levittown neighborhoods often means lower utility and maintenance costs than Upper Darby’s older housing stock. However, Upper Darby offers more rental availability for those not ready to buy.
| Housing Type | Levittown | Upper Darby |
|---|---|---|
| 1BR Apartment | $1,100 – $1,300 | $1,300 – $1,500 |
| 2BR Apartment | $1,300 – $1,600 | $1,500 – $1,900 |
| 3BR House | $300K – $350K | $350K – $400K |
For families looking to stretch their space and budget, Levittown offers clear savings. A household earning the same income could afford a larger home in Levittown than Upper Darby. Young professionals may prefer Upper Darby’s urban edge, but they’ll pay a premium in rent.
Winner: Levittown. Lower housing costs across the board give Levittown the advantage for both renters and buyers.
Keep the Lights On for Less in Levittown
Utility bills are another unavoidable expense, and again, Levittown comes out ahead. Residents report average monthly utility costs (electricity, gas, water, and sewer) of $180 for a 2-bedroom apartment in Levittown. The same size unit in Upper Darby typically runs $220 or more per month.
Seasonal swings impact both towns, with higher heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. However, Levittown’s newer, more efficient homes often mean lower peak bills. Families in larger homes may still spend more on utilities overall, but the per-square-foot cost favors Levittown.
Winner: Levittown. Cheaper base utility rates and more efficient housing stock help keep monthly bills in check.
Groceries and Goods: A Toss-Up
For everyday staples like groceries, household items, and dining out, Levittown and Upper Darby are closely matched. Both towns have a mix of big-box retailers, local markets, and chain restaurants with similar pricing.
Grocery costs for a typical family of four average $850 to $950 per month in either town. However, Upper Darby does offer more specialty food stores and local dining options, which can mean slightly higher tabs for frequent diners.
Winner: Tie. Aside from the widest array of restaurant choices, grocery and household costs are comparable between Levittown and Upper Darby.
Taxes and Fees Favor Levittown
For homeowners, property taxes are a significant factor in long-term affordability. Levittown’s property tax rate of 1.45% beats Upper Darby’s 1.8%. On a $350,000 home, that’s a difference of $1,225 per year.
Both towns charge a 1% local earned income tax on top of the 3.07% state income tax. However, Upper Darby’s local services tax of $52 per year applies to anyone working in the township, even non-residents. Levittown has no such tax.
Winner: Levittown. Lower property taxes and no added local fees make Levittown more tax-friendly for most households.
Monthly Cost of Living Comparison
| Expense Category | Levittown | Upper Darby |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Apartment) | $1,450 | $1,700 |
| Utilities | $180 | $220 |
| Groceries & Dining | $900 | $900 |
| Transportation | $250 | $200 |
| Taxes (Income & Property*) | $600 | $750 |
| Miscellaneous | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,780 | $4,170 |
*Assumes $350,000 home value and $80,000 household income. Property taxes are divided into monthly costs for comparison.
Levittown comes out ahead by nearly $400 per month, mainly due to lower housing and utility costs. For a household earning around $80,000 per year, that’s a significant difference in disposable income. Even with slightly higher transportation costs from a longer commute, Levittown still offers a lower overall cost of living.
Lifestyle Factors to Consider
Of course, cost isn’t the only consideration. Upper Darby offers an undeniable lifestyle advantage for those who value urban access and amenities. With more frequent public transit, greater walkability, and a wider array of dining and entertainment options, Upper Darby can be worth the added cost for the right resident.
Conversely, Levittown’s family-friendly neighborhoods, parks, and slower pace are ideal for those looking for a bit more breathing room. Commute times from Levittown average 30-35 minutes, which is still manageable for many workers.
Ultimately, the best fit depends on your stage of life and personal preferences. Young professionals may find Upper Darby’s vibrancy worth the premium, while families can get more for their money in Levittown. Regardless of the town, living near Philadelphia comes with an inherent cost—but also undeniable opportunity and amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Levittown more affordable than Upper Darby in 2025?
Yes, Levittown has a lower overall cost of living than Upper Darby in 2025, particularly for housing, utilities, and taxes. Renters can save around $250 per month on a typical 2-bedroom apartment in Levittown.
How do property taxes compare between Levittown and Upper Darby?
Levittown’s 2025 property tax rate of 1.45% is lower than Upper Darby’s rate of 1.8%. For a $350,000 home, that means paying about $1,225 less per year in Levittown.
Are utility bills higher in Upper Darby or Levittown?
Residents report higher monthly utility costs in Upper Darby, averaging $220 for a 2-bedroom apartment compared to $180 in Levittown in 2025. Newer, more efficient housing stock in Levittown helps keep bills down.
What is the average cost of living for a family of four in Levittown vs. Upper Darby?
In 2025, a typical family of four can expect to spend around $4,500 per month living in Levittown. The same family would average closer to $5,000 monthly in Upper Darby due to higher housing, utility, and tax expenses.
Is Levittown considered a better value for homebuyers than Upper Darby?
Yes, Levittown offers more affordable home prices and lower property taxes than Upper Darby in 2025, making it a better value for many buyers. However, some may prefer Upper Darby for its urban amenities and transit access.
Making Your Move in 2025
As these cost of living trends show, Levittown offers a lower-cost alternative to Upper Darby without sacrificing easy access to the Philadelphia region. For budget-conscious households, Levittown’s affordable housing and lower tax rates can provide much-needed breathing room.
Still, the decision between these two towns is highly personal. Those who prioritize urban amenities and transit access may find Upper Darby worth the added expense. Wherever you land, working with a reputable moving company can help you start your new chapter on the right foot.
Want to see how your current expenses stack up to life in Levittown or Upper Darby? Check out our cost of living calculator to run the numbers for yourself. With a clear picture of the costs and tradeoffs, you can make a confident choice in 2025 and beyond.