Best San Diego to Philadelphia Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from San Diego to Philadelphia and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,724 mile move from California to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 46 San Diego to Philadelphia moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is EverSafe Moving Co.), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego 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.

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Best San Diego to Philadelphia Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1EverSafe Moving Co.9.509.5Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2The Rock Movers9.499.53Authorized For HHGContact
3Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.9.469.62Authorized For HHGContact
4Pineapple Movers9.449.62Authorized For HHGContact
5Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.8.948.13Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from San Diego to Philadelphia

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,724 miles from San Diego, CA to Philadelphia, PA will cost on average $4,098 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Philadelphia move is roughly $9,907. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,747300 ft³9.16
1 Bedroom$4,098450 ft³9.11
2 Bedrooms$6,792750 ft³9.06
3 Bedrooms$9,9071100 ft³9.01
4 Bedrooms$14,3301600 ft³8.96
5+ Bedrooms$16,0311800 ft³8.91
*Please note: These California to Pennsylvania moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Pennsylvania. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to PA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Philadelphia to San Diego guide.

Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Philadelphia Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

EverSafe Moving Co. Logo

EverSafe Moving Co.

Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,941+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261303 / 771755

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2021)
View Full Review
1
The Rock Movers Logo

The Rock Movers

Exceptional9.49/10
based on 2,305+ data points

7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306

San Diego, CA, 92111

About The Rock Movers

The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....

Services

  • Local Residential
  • Furniture Moving
  • Full Packing Service

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3653432 / 1541470

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Exceptional9.46/10
based on 477+ data points

2020 Camino De La Reina

San Diego, CA, 92108

About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3177184 / 1157114

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Pineapple Movers Logo

Pineapple Movers

Exceptional9.44/10
based on 701+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3579435 / 1208543

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. Logo

Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.

Superb8.94/10
based on 2,147+ data points

13026 Stowe Dr A

Poway, CA, 92064

About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.

Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...

Services

  • Long Distance Moving
  • International Moving
  • Storage Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

877737 / 383831

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved8,778 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

San Diego vs. Philadelphia Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can feel daunting, especially to a city you're not familiar with. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with Philadelphia, PA, by using San Diego, CA, as a baseline. We'll explore some top neighborhoods in San Diego and pair them with their Philadelphia counterparts, spotlighting similarities that might make you feel right at home.

San DiegoPhiladelphiaHow They're Similar
La JollaRittenhouse SquareUpscale living, fine dining
Pacific BeachFishtownVibrant nightlife, young professionals
North ParkPassyunk SquareArtsy vibe, eclectic dining
Gaslamp QuarterOld CityHistoric charm, rich nightlife
HillcrestWashington Square WestLGBTQ+ friendly, lively community
Del MarChestnut HillAffluent, serene neighborhoods
CoronadoSociety HillHistoric homes, waterfront views
Ocean BeachManayunkRelaxed atmosphere, waterfront dining
EncinitasNorthern LibertiesCreative scene, modern living
Little ItalySouth PhiladelphiaRich culinary heritage, vibrant markets

Intrigued by San Diego's relaxing Ocean Beach? Manayunk in Philadelphia offers a similarly laid-back vibe with unique shops and bustling restaurants like the Manayunk Brewery lining the waterfront, perfect for weekend exploration. If the cultured and creative spirit of North Park appeals to you, then Passyunk Square in Philadelphia will charm you with its mosaic art installations and the famous Singing Fountain, a gathering spot for community events and local eateries. Meanwhile, the historical allure of Coronado finds its match in Philadelphia's Society Hill, where cobbled streets and Georgian architecture evoke a sense of the past, highlighted at landmarks like the Powel House. This exploration reveals not just the architectural and environmental parallels but the vibrant communities and lifestyles that await you.

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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

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Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Philadelphia

Moving between cities, especially from San Diego, CA to Philadelphia, PA , involves weighing the pros and cons to better understand the transition. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the benefits and drawbacks associated with moving from the sunny beaches of San Diego to the historic streets of Philadelphia.

CONs
PROs
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Less historic sites
  • Less seasonal change
  • Milder winters
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Lower living costs
  • Rich history
  • Distinct seasons
  • White winters
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Colder winters
  • Fewer beaches
  • Faster pace
  • Far from coastline
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Warmer winters
  • More outdoor activities
  • Laid-back lifestyle
  • Beautiful beaches

Moving from San Diego to Philadelphia brings a plethora of lifestyle changes. In Philadelphia, you'll find yourself enveloped in America's rich history, with landmarks like the Independence National Historical Park and the iconic Liberty Bell. The city's four distinct seasons offer picturesque white winters, a stark contrast to San Diego's mild ones. Philadelphia's culinary scene, highlighted by the famous Reading Terminal Market, offers diverse and exquisite dining options that extend beyond its renowned cheesesteaks. Although you might miss San Diego's laid-back lifestyle and stunning beaches, areas like Rittenhouse Square and the vibrant Fishtown neighborhood present an exciting urban life with plentiful parks, restaurants, and sightseeing opportunities. This move, while challenging, offers an enriching experience, blending the comfort of familiar things with the thrill of discovering new ones.

San Diego vs. Philadelphia Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Philadelphia illuminates how food is an essential aspect of local culture and daily life. Whether moving for work, family, or adventure, knowing the culinary landscape helps you adapt and immerse in your new city.

San DiegoPhiladelphia
Most iconic local food itemFish TacosCheesesteak
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaRoast Pork Sandwich
Most popular street food itemCalifornia BurritoSoft Pretzel
Most popular vegan foodVegan TacosSeitan Cheesesteak
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
    • George's at the Cove
    • Juniper & Ivy
    • Mister A's
    • Reading Terminal Market
    • Pat's King of Steaks
    • Zahav
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In San Diego, the blend of Mexican and American cuisines shines through dishes like Fish Tacos and the California Burrito, found widely from beachside stands to gourmet restaurants in neighborhoods like La Jolla and North Park. Conversely, Philadelphia takes pride in its iconic Cheesesteak and Roast Pork Sandwich, echoing the city's rich history and culinary diversity. The Reading Terminal Market, a must-visit destination, offers an array of local flavors, including the internationally acclaimed Zahav in Society Hill for an innovative Middle Eastern dining experience. Whether you're craving street food or a sit-down meal, both cities cater to a range of palates and preferences, including those seeking vegan options like San Diego's Vegan Tacos and Philadelphia's Seitan Cheesesteak.

San Diego vs. Philadelphia Restaurant Comparison

Finding your next favorite meal is key to feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison chart between San Diego and Philadelphia is designed to guide you from familiar flavors to new establishments that promise to be just as enticing. Let's embark on this culinary journey together.

San DiegoPhiladelphiaWhat You'll Love
Juniper & IvyZahavInventive, upscale dining with a modern twist on traditional Israeli flavors
CUCINA urbanaVetri CucinaRenowned for its artisanal Italian dishes in an intimate setting
Phil's BBQFette SauOffers a similar smoke-infused BBQ experience with a focus on high-quality meats
George's at the CoveVernick Food & DrinkA perfect spot for sweeping views and modern American cuisine
Hodad'sPOPEIconic for its eclectic burger selection and laid-back vibe, akin to Hodad's
Lolita's Taco ShopSouth Philly BarbacoaFamed for its authentic, tender barbacoa and taco offerings
PuestoEl VezOffering a vibrant atmosphere with creatively plated Mexican favorites
Cowboy StarBarclay PrimeSteakhouse excellence with an emphasis on luxury and precision in every dish
Sushi OtaDouble KnotSushi destination celebrated for its quality and intimate dining experience
Born & RaisedButcher and SingerDelivers a classic, upscale steakhouse experience with a nostalgic ambiance

Philadelphia's culinary scene is as diverse and flavorful as San Diego's, offering newcomers a wide array of dining experiences. For instance, Zahav's uniquely Israeli approach to fine dining provides a fresh perspective similar to the innovative American cuisine at Juniper & Ivy. Fans of casual, yet gourmet tacos transitioning from Lolita's Taco Shop can find solace in the authentic offerings of South Philly Barbacoa. Moreover, steak enthusiasts will appreciate the careful attention to quality and ambiance found at both Cowboy Star and Barclay Prime, ensuring that the transition from coast to coast doesn't mean compromising on the dining experiences you've come to love.

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San Diego vs. Philadelphia Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate market in both your current city and prospective city can greatly influence your decision. This comparison between San Diego, CA and Philadelphia, PA offers insights into their housing landscapes, considering costs, architecture, and livability, to aid in your moving process.

ComparisonSan DiegoPhiladelphia
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish Colonial, ModernGeorgian, Federal
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOcean Views, Outdoor LivingHistoric Details, Proximity to Public Transit

In both San Diego and Philadelphia, the housing market reflects the city's cultural and geographic atmosphere. San Diego's high median home price mirrors its coastal real estate premium, often highlighting ocean views and outdoor living spaces in listings. Philadelphia, with its more accessible median home price, boasts historic homes bearing Georgian and Federal architectural styles. The city's higher walkability and bikeability scores indicate a more urban, compact layout, catering well to those seeking an urban lifestyle with easy access to public amenities and transit options.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

San Diego vs. Philadelphia Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, grasping the climatic differences is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how the weather in San Diego contrasts with Philadelphia, providing insight into what you can expect. Knowing these differences ensures you are well-prepared for your new environment.

Summer icon
75°F / 64°F

San Diego, CA

87°F / 68°F

Philadelphia, PA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
66°F / 50°F

San Diego, CA

40°F / 25°F

Philadelphia, PA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
10

San Diego, CA

47

Philadelphia, PA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Diego, CA

22

Philadelphia, PA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSan DiegoPhiladelphia
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersWildfires, EarthquakesSnowstorms, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In summary, the moderate climate of San Diego, with its ample sunshine and generally low humidity, contrasts sharply with Philadelphia's more varied seasons, which include hotter summers and cold, snowy winters. Philadelphia experiences significantly more rainfall and snowfall annually, offering a distinct four-season climate as opposed to San Diego's milder, drier conditions. Additionally, the potential for different natural disasters exists in each location, from wildfires and earthquakes on the West Coast to snowstorms and floods in the East. Understanding these differences is key to a smooth transition to your new home.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Philadelphia

Relocating from one city to another involves many adjustments, especially in terms of finance. If you're considering a move, it's crucial to compare San Diego's and Philadelphia's cost of living, taxes, and economic environment to anticipate changes in your financial landscape.

ComparisonSan DiegoPhiladelphia
Avg. Household Income$93,042$52,899
Cost of Living Index132.3126.5
State Income Tax9.33.07
Avg. Property Tax0.760.99
Avg. Sales Tax7.758
Top 3 IndustriesMilitary, Manufacturing, TourismEducation, Health Services, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerateLow
PovertyLowHigh
HomelessnessHighModerate

When comparing San Diego and Philadelphia, there are significant differences that could impact your financial well-being. For instance, the average household income in San Diego is notably higher, which aligns with its elevated cost of living index. However, Pennsylvania's lower state income tax rate might offset some expenses for Philadelphia residents. It's also worth noting the contrasting top industries, which reflect the economic diversity of these locations and could influence job opportunities. Finally, while both cities face challenges with poverty and homelessness, the extent and nature of these issues vary, potentially affecting community involvement and support services.

San Diego vs. Philadelphia Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from San Diego, CA to Philadelphia, PA, it helps to understand the local landscape you're transitioning into. This includes a comparison of the politics between San Diego & Philadelphia, providing a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Here’s a brief overview to help you gauge the social climate of your new city.

San DiegoPhiladelphia
Political Make-upLean LiberalStrongly Liberal
Local PoliticsMixed, with progressive trends in urban planningDominantly Democratic, with a focus on social equity
ReligionDiverse, with a notable Christian and Catholic presenceHighly diverse, strong historical Quaker roots

As you prepare to move from San Diego to Philadelphia, you'll find that while both cities lean liberal, Philadelphia has a distinctly stronger liberal stance, reflected in its local politics and community projects aimed at social equity. Known for its Quaker heritage, Philadelphia boasts a rich tapestry of religious diversity, including a vibrant history of religious tolerance that mirrors its political landscape. San Diego, while also diverse, tends to have a more balanced political environment with its own unique religious communities making up the social fabric. Understanding these dynamics can help you anticipate the cultural shift and engage more deeply with your new community.

San Diego vs. Philadelphia Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another often means adapting to a new way of commuting. In this guide, our goal is to help you better understand the daily commute and traffic by comparing San Diego & Philadelphia . This comparison will give you insights into what to expect when it comes to navigating each city, whether you're behind the wheel or opting for public transportation.

ComparisonSan DiegoPhiladelphia
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2533
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingEasier

While San Diego offers a relatively relaxed commuting experience with an average commute time of around 25 minutes, Philadelphia's average is notably higher at 33 minutes. Philadelphia however, shines in terms of public transit availability, scoring an 8 out of 10 compared to San Diego's 6, making it easier to get around the city without a car. Traffic congestion in Philadelphia is slightly worse, but the robust public transit options, including buses, trolleys, and the subway system, largely offset the impact of traffic on your daily commute.

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