United States · tool
How much does Philadelphia cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Philadelphia trip before you book anything.
Philadelphia, United States travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
Hostels, street food, public transit
Hostel dorm bed or a very basic private room outside the city center.
Street food, food trucks, casual delis, and grocery store snacks.
SEPTA public transport (subway, bus, trolley) and walking.
Free museums (e.g., Philadelphia Museum of Art steps), walking tours, exploring neighborhoods like Old City.
Souvenirs, coffee, small incidentals.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Comfortable 3-star hotel or a well-located Airbnb/boutique hotel.
Mix of casual restaurants, gastropubs, and one nicer dinner.
Occasional ride-shares (Uber/Lyft) or taxis, plus public transport.
Entry fees to major attractions like the Franklin Institute, National Constitution Center, or a guided historical tour.
Shopping, drinks, additional incidentals.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
Luxury 4-5 star hotel in a prime location with amenities.
Fine dining, tasting menus, premium bars, and room service.
Private car service, airport transfers, and premium ride-shares.
Private guided tours, exclusive experiences, premium seats at performances.
High-end shopping, spa treatments, premium beverages.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Philadelphia is very card-friendly; most places accept major credit cards. Look for ATMs within major banks to avoid higher fees.
- •Tipping is expected: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, $1-2 per bag for hotel bellhops, and 10-15% for taxi/rideshare drivers.
- •While many attractions have entry fees, Philadelphia offers many free historical sites and museums (like the PMA on certain days) which are great budget-saver.
- •Food in Philadelphia can range from very affordable (cheesesteaks, Reading Terminal Market) to quite expensive; plan your dining budget accordingly.
- •Consider purchasing a CityPASS if you plan to visit multiple major paid attractions, as it can offer significant savings.