Best Oakland to Philadelphia Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Oakland to Philadelphia and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,868 mile move from California to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Oakland to Philadelphia moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Oakland compared to Philadelphia. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best Oakland to Philadelphia Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | EverSafe Moving Co. | 9.50 | 9.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
3 | Pineapple Movers | 9.43 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Upline Moving | 8.60 | 8.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Oakland to Philadelphia
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,868 miles from Oakland, CA to Philadelphia, PA will cost on average $4,220 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to Philadelphia move is roughly $10,206. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $2,828 | 300 ft³ | 9.43 |
1 Bedroom | $4,220 | 450 ft³ | 9.38 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,996 | 750 ft³ | 9.33 |
3 Bedrooms | $10,206 | 1100 ft³ | 9.28 |
4 Bedrooms | $14,765 | 1600 ft³ | 9.23 |
5+ Bedrooms | $16,521 | 1800 ft³ | 9.18 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Philadelphia to Oakland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Oakland to Philadelphia Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |

EverSafe Moving Co.
8701 Torresdale Ave
Philadelphia, PA, 19136
About EverSafe Moving Co.
Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long-distance Movers
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261303 / 771755 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2021) |

Pineapple Movers
Collingswood, NJ, 08108
About Pineapple Movers
Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2023, they...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3579435 / 1208543 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 5,000 (2022) |

Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (2022) |

Upline Moving
30956 San Clemente St
Hayward, CA, 94544
About Upline Moving
For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the community...
Services
- Residential movers
- Long distance movers
- Local movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1881933 / 678648 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
Registered Drivers | 5 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2012) |

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Oakland vs. Philadelphia Neighborhood Comparison
When considering a move from one city to another, it helps to draw parallels between what you know and what you're about to discover. In this guide, we offer a unique comparison between Oakland, CA & Philadelphia, PA neighborhoods to ease your transition. Discover similar vibes, cultures, and amenities, making the unknown familiar.
Oakland | Philadelphia | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Rockridge | Chestnut Hill | Quaint shops, community vibe |
Piedmont Avenue | Manayunk | Diverse dining, shopping scene |
Temescal | Fishtown | Edgy art scene, innovative eateries |
Montclair | Chestnut Hill again | Both have lush green spaces, family-friendly |
Jack London Square | Old City | Waterfront ambience, rich history |
Lake Merritt | Rittenhouse Square | Urban park, community events |
Grand Lake | Passyunk Square | Bustling markets, local charm |
Uptown | Midtown Village | Nightlife, arts and culture |
West Oakland | Kensington | Industrial roots, creative spirit |
North Oakland | University City | Academic atmosphere, youthful energy |
For someone charmed by the trendy boutiques and artisanal coffee shops of Rockridge, you'll find a similar spirit in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, known for its quaint shops nestled amongst historic buildings. If the vibrant art community and bustling eateries of Temescal are what you love, Fishtown will impress with its edgy atmosphere and innovative food scene. Lastly, for those accustomed to the scenic runs and community gatherings at Lake Merritt, the urban greenspace of Rittenhouse Square offers a lively alternative with frequent events and a welcoming community feel. Each of these transitions underline how new surroundings in Philadelphia can echo the cherished characteristics of Oakland neighborhoods, ensuring you feel right at home.

Things to Do in Philadelphia
- Tour the Liberty Bell Center
- Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art
- Eat at Reading Terminal Market
- Explore the Philadelphia Zoo
- Stroll through Longwood Gardens
- Tour Eastern State Penitentiary
- Bike on Schuylkill Banks
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia
Moving from one city to another involves weighing various factors to make the best decision for you and your family. This guide compares moving from Oakland, CA to Philadelphia, PA, showing an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation. Through detailed charts, we aim to make the decision-making process easier by highlighting the pros and cons.
- Higher cost of living
- Less historical sites
- Smaller public transit system
- Less seasonal weather
- Lower cost of living
- Rich historical heritage
- Larger public transit options
- Distinct seasons
- Smaller arts scene
- Less cuisine diversity
- No Silicon Valley access
- Harsher winters
- Vibrant arts scene
- Diverse cuisines
- Proximity to Silicon Valley
- Milder winters
Moving to Philadelphia from Oakland offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a city with a rich historical heritage and vibrant arts scene. While Oakland is known for its proximity to Silicon Valley and diverse cuisines, Philadelphia boasts a larger public transit system and more affordable living. For arts and culture enthusiasts, places like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the vibrant murals throughout the city provide a cornucopia of visual delights. In contrast, Oakland offers proximity to tech innovations and a milder climate. Each city has its perks and challenges, but no matter where you decide to live, exploring local neighborhoods, parks like Fairmount Park in Philly, and local eateries will help you feel at home.
Oakland vs. Philadelphia Food Guide
Food greatly shapes the local culture and everyday living experience in a city. Understanding the culinary scene of your new home is essential for a smooth transition. Therefore, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland, CA & Philadelphia, PA to provide a closer look at what each city offers food-wise.
Oakland | Philadelphia | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Philly Cheesesteak |
Most popular meat dish | Korean BBQ | Roast Pork Sandwich |
Most popular street food item | Tacos | Pretzels |
Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Seitan Cheesesteak |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Philadelphia, the iconic Philly Cheesesteak is an experience in itself, best enjoyed in its birthplace amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Popular eateries like Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks in South Philly offer authentic tastes of this beloved sandwich. For those seeking a twist on traditional flavors, Reading Terminal Market provides a culinary adventure with its plethora of diverse stalls. The city's food scene embraces both history and innovation, ensuring there's always something new to taste. Additionally, Philly's growing vegan scene, highlighted by offerings such as seitan cheesesteaks, caters to a diverse range of dietary preferences, solidifying its status as a city that loves its food in all forms.
Oakland vs. Philadelphia Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to spots for dining out. This restaurant comparison is designed to bridge the culinary gap between Oakland and Philadelphia, helping you transition smoothly by identifying counterparts to your favorite Oakland eateries in your new home city. Whether you’re in search of high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic food experiences, this guide aims to make Philadelphia feel like home, one meal at a time.
Oakland | Philadelphia | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Commis | Vetri Cucina | Both offer a high-end dining experience with a focus on meticulous preparation and local ingredients. |
Brown Sugar Kitchen | South | Southern comfort food with a contemporary twist, capturing the essence of Brown Sugar Kitchen's soulful dishes. |
Shan Dong Restaurant | Han Dynasty | Authentic Chinese cuisine with a reputation for bold flavors and traditional dishes, reminiscent of Shan Dong. |
La Farine Bakery | Belle Cakery | Both specialize in French-inspired pastries and breads, making them local favorites for sweet and savory treats. |
Wood Tavern | The Love | Cozy, upscale casual dining with a diverse menu that focuses on American cuisine, much like Wood Tavern. |
Pizzaiolo | Pizzeria Vetri | Artisanal pizzas that draw inspiration from traditional Italian techniques, paralleling Pizzaiolo's craftsmanship. |
Dona Tomas | El Vez | Both are celebrated for their innovative approach to Mexican cuisine, featuring vibrant, flavorful dishes. |
Hawking Bird | Federal Donuts | While known for donuts, Federal Donuts also serves up crave-worthy fried chicken, echoing Hawking Bird’s specialty. |
Mama's Royal Cafe | Honey's Sit 'N Eat | Both are go-to spots for hearty, homestyle breakfasts and brunches with a unique and comforting twist. |
Burma Superstar | Vientiane Café | Showcasing the flavors of Southeast Asia with a focus on authenticity and bold spices, similar to Burma Superstar. |
Embarking on a culinary expedition in Philadelphia can be just as rewarding as it was back in Oakland. Venturing into Vetri Cucina will remind you of the intricate and refined dishes that Commis is known for, while exploring South’s menu offers a slice of Brown Sugar Kitchen’s comforting soul food, reimagined with a Philly twist. Meanwhile, the transition from Hawking Bird's signature fried chicken to the equally delicious and intriguing options at Federal Donuts reveals how similar culinary concepts can find fresh expressions in new locales. Each restaurant on this list has been carefully selected to help bridge the gap between what was cherished back home and what awaits to be discovered in Philadelphia, ensuring that every meal is a step towards feeling more at home in your new city.

Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. Philadelphia Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is crucial when considering a move. Understand how Oakland and Philadelphia compare in housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and walkability to make an informed decision.
Comparison | Oakland | Philadelphia |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | Georgian and Federal |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Outdoor Space | Historic Details, Proximity to Amenities |
Examining the real estate landscape, Oakland's market is significantly pricier than Philadelphia's, reflecting the broader cost-of-living differences between California and Pennsylvania. Philadelphia offers a surprisingly rich architectural tapestry, with historic Georgian and Federal styles pervasive throughout its neighborhoods, a stark contrast to Oakland’s mix of Victorian and modern homes. The higher walkability and bikeability scores in Philadelphia suggest a more compact and accessible urban layout, enhancing the day-to-day urban lifestyle compared to Oakland. Additionally, listings in Philadelphia often highlight historic details and proximity to local amenities, showcasing the city's rich history and vibrant urban life.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Philadelphia, PA
1. Manayunk: With its easy access to the Wissahickon Valley Park trails and numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops, Manayunk is a paradise for pet owners.
2. Fairmount: Known for its proximity to the expansive Fairmount Park, this neighborhood offers endless green spaces and dog parks for your furry friends to explore.
3. Queen Village: This community shines with its welcoming attitude towards pets, featuring several pet stores, doggy daycares, and the beloved Mario Lanza Park where local dogs love to play.
Oakland vs. Philadelphia Weather Considerations
When relocating, it's crucial to understand how the weather in Oakland and Philadelphia will impact your daily life. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences and prepare you for what lies ahead, ensuring no surprises as you transition from the west to the east coast.
Oakland, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oakland, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Oakland | Philadelphia |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Snowstorms, Hurricanes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia, you'll find significant weather differences. For starters, summers in Philadelphia are hotter and more humid, which might require some adjustment for those accustomed to Oakland's milder climate. Winter brings another distinct change; Philadelphia experiences colder temperatures and snowfall, unlike Oakland's mild, rainier winters. Additionally, the transition from an area prone to earthquakes to one where snowstorms and occasionally hurricanes occur may demand new forms of preparedness. Understanding these nuances will help you adapt more comfortably to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the shift in cost of living, tax rates, and economic conditions between Oakland and Philadelphia becomes crucial. This comparison will give you a clearer idea of what to expect financially as you transition from the West Coast to the East Coast.
Comparison | Oakland | Philadelphia |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $82,236 | $52,899 |
Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 126.5 |
State Income Tax | 9.3% | 3.07% |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.74% | 1.34% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25% | 8% |
Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Retail | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
Affluence | High | Moderate |
Poverty | Moderate | High |
Homelessness | High | High |
Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia will notably change your financial landscape. Not only is the average household income lower in Philadelphia, but the cost of living is substantially less, bringing some balance. The lower state income tax in Pennsylvania can offer some relief despite the generally higher property tax rate compared to California. Key industries shift from tech-heavy in Oakland to a focus on education and healthcare in Philadelphia, which may influence job opportunities. Understanding these economic conditions is essential for adjusting your budget and expectations upon relocation.
Oakland vs. Philadelphia Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider moving from Oakland to Philadelphia, understanding the comparison of the politics between Oakland & Philadelphia and the religious landscape offers insight into the community you're joining. This snapshot provides a quick look at the political leanings, local governmental structures, and religious affiliations prevalent in each city.
Oakland | Philadelphia | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Strongly Liberal | Strongly Liberal |
Local Politics | Progressive City Council | Diverse City Council with strong Democratic presence |
Religion | Diverse; notable presence of Catholic and Protestant communities | Diverse; large Catholic community alongside significant Protestant and Muslim populations |
In both Oakland and Philadelphia, you'll find a strongly liberal political makeup, reflecting in local governance and policies which might affect the social and economic environment you'll live in. Oakland's city council is known for its progressive stance, often pushing forward policies that champion social justice and equity. Philadelphia, while also liberal, has a city council that showcases a wider political diversity, still predominantly Democratic but with a rich history of political engagement that shapes its policies. Religious diversity is another commonality, with both cities home to a variety of faith-based communities. However, Philadelphia stands out with its significantly larger Catholic presence, which influences local culture, festivals, and landmarks, offering a unique blend of historical and contemporary religious expression.
Oakland vs. Philadelphia Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
As you consider moving from Oakland, CA to Philadelphia, PA, understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic is crucial. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Oakland & Philadelphia aims to help you navigate this transition smoothly.
Comparison | Oakland | Philadelphia |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29.2 | 32.8 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Yes, but it's challenging | Yes, more feasible |
In moving from Oakland to Philadelphia, you'll find that both cities offer robust public transit options, though Oakland ranks slightly higher in availability. However, Philadelphia's layout and services may make it more feasible to live without a car. Oakland's commute times are on average shorter, reflecting possibly less distance but higher traffic congestion compared to Philadelphia. Yet, Philadelphia's slightly lower congestion score hints at potentially smoother traffic flows, an aspect worth considering if driving is a significant part of your daily routine.



Additional Resources
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Popular Oakland to Pennsylvania Routes
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