This Sunday, Feb. 9, the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs will fight for the championship title. While the Eagles and Chiefs face off on the football field, their cities will go head-to-head as well…and you can be the judge.
Philadelphia: A Historic Highflier
One of the oldest cities in the U.S., Philadelphia’s reputation precedes it. Recent years have seen the team focusing on economic development to match its historical significance, and the 2024 season was no different. The Center City Retail Report says that between January and October 2024, 13 new retailers and 44 new restaurants opened in Center City.
2024-2025 season stats
Philadelphia’s stats have remained relatively stable over the past several seasons, making Philadelphia a predictable contender. From 1700 to 2016, the City of Brotherly Love was in the top five most populated cities in the United States. It’s currently ranked sixth.
- Population: Approximately 1.6 million residents, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
- Median household income: $60,302, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,694/month
- Median home value: $265,000
Game strategy
Philadelphia’s offensive strategy lies in its history and culture. Between the historic landmarks, numerous museums, diverse food scene, and nightlife in Center City, residents never run out of things to do in Philly. Navigating the city is made easy by the city’s SEPTA system, which includes buses, trolleys, subways, and regional rails. Philly’s urban atmosphere makes it a great place to live and a strong opponent for Kansas City.
Weaknesses
The median household income in Philadelphia is 25% lower than the national median household income of $80,000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. However, the overall cost of living in Philadelphia is 2.6% higher than the national average. This disconnect between the median household income and cost of living makes Philadelphia relatively expensive, especially compared to Kansas City. Still, there are plenty of affordable places to live in Philadelphia where you can enjoy the city without breaking the bank.
Kansas City: A Midwestern Metropolis
Kansas City’s rapid yet sustainable growth has put the city on the map. KC’s population grew by 9.51% between 2010 and 2020, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, a significant difference compared to Philadelphia’s increase of 4.85%.
2024-2025 season stats
Kansas City’s stats in prior seasons reflect its Midwestern core while still being an urban oasis. Home to about 8% of Missouri’s population, Kansas City presents a more metropolitan option than its surrounding cities.
- Population: Approximately 510,000 residents, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
- Median household income: $65,225, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,169/month
- Median home value: $280,000
Game strategy
Kansas City’s urban environment combined with its lower cost of living pose a threat to Philadelphia’s offensive strategy. The numerous entertainment options like exhibits at Union Station, shows at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, and nightlife in Downtown and Midtown make Kansas City a Midwestern powerhouse. Kansas City’s extensive public transportation system, RideKC, further enhances its strategy going into the face-off with Philadelphia.
Weaknesses
Compared to a city like Philadelphia, Kansas City is relatively secluded. While Philadelphia is within driving distance of major cities like New York City, Jersey City, and Pittsburgh, KC lacks the same connectivity to major cities. However, the nearby Kansas City International Airport is within a 3-hour flight from the East and West Coasts.
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