Cost of Living? NYC vs Philly vs DC

[CourtneyJ8]

Hi!

I currently live in DC and am considering leaving my full time job to go to grad school FT at either NYU or Penn. I'm trying to work out the budget specifics before I make my decision - any thoughts on how the cost of living compares in each city? I know it all depends on individual standards, but any thoughts for someone who's not looking to live in a luxury apartment but also not looking to eat ramen every night?

I'm comparing a guess at an average rent of $1,000 in NYC to $800 in Philly - sound about right? And so on that it's about 20% cheaper in Philly?

Thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

[Darth.Vegan]

Where are you finding an apartment in NYC for $1000? Queens? Anyway, in my experience Philly considerably cheaper than both DC and NYC. Congrats on the great acceptances though, super exciting!