Best San Francisco to Philadelphia Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Philadelphia and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,885 mile move from California to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 San Francisco 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 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 | 9.44 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Francisco to Philadelphia
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,885 miles from San Francisco, CA to Philadelphia, PA will cost on average $4,235 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Philadelphia move is roughly $10,241. 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 | $2,838 | 300 ft³ | 9.46 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,235 | 450 ft³ | 9.41 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,020 | 750 ft³ | 9.36 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,241 | 1100 ft³ | 9.31 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,816 | 1600 ft³ | 9.26 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $16,578 | 1800 ft³ | 9.21 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Philadelphia to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco 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) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
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.
San Francisco vs. Philadelphia Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can feel like navigating unchartered waters, especially when the cities are as diverse as San Francisco, CA, and Philadelphia, PA. To help bridge this transition, we've created a comparison of popular neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Philadelphia, PA . This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your current city as a baseline.
| San Francisco | Philadelphia | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Marina District | Rittenhouse Square | Upscale, vibrant nightlife |
| Mission District | Fishtown | Artistic, trendy with unique food scene |
| Noe Valley | Chestnut Hill | Family-friendly, affluent with boutiques |
| Haight-Ashbury | Manayunk | Bohemian, with a strong sense of community |
| SOMA (South of Market) | Northern Liberties | Industrial, vibrant arts scene |
| Pacific Heights | Society Hill | Historic, with elegant architecture |
| The Castro | Washington Square West | LGBTQ+-friendly, lively atmosphere |
| Nob Hill | Old City | Affluent, historical landmarks |
| Outer Sunset | East Passyunk | Eclectic, with a great mix of dining options |
| Russian Hill | Fairmount | Scenic views, cultural institutions |
Discovering parallels between neighborhoods can ease the stress of moving. For instance, if you're charmed by the vibrant arts scene and eclectic energy of SOMA in San Francisco, Northern Liberties in Philadelphia will captivate you with its similar industrial vibe and thriving creative community. Fans of the historic elegance found in Pacific Heights might find Society Hill's well-preserved architecture and cobblestone streets equally enchanting. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts previously fond of jogging or enjoying leisurely picnics in Marina District's parks might find Rittenhouse Square's green spaces and bustling ambiance a perfect alternative. Whether it's enjoying a cup of coffee from La Colombe while exploring Fishtown's street art or taking a historical tour through Old City, there's a Philadelphia neighborhood that mirrors the unique charm of your San Francisco favorite.
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 San Francisco to Philadelphia
Considering relocating from San Francisco, CA to Philadelphia, PA requires a balanced look at both the upsides and downsides of such a move. To help you weigh these factors, we've created charts that boldly contrast the pros and cons , offering an honest reflection of the transition. This comparison aims to provide clarity and aid in your decision-making process.
San Francisco, CA- High cost of living
- Dense population
- Frequent fog
- Steep hills
Philadelphia, PA- More affordable housing
- Less crowded
- More seasonal weather
- Flatter terrain
Philadelphia, PA- Fewer tech opportunities
- Hot summers, cold winters
- Fewer global icons
- Smaller culinary spectrum
San Francisco, CA- Tech job hub
- Mild climate
- Iconic landmarks
- Vibrant food scene
While moving from San Francisco to Philadelphia, you'll trade the iconic Golden Gate views and the tech-centered environment of Silicon Valley for the historic charm of neighborhoods like Old City and the lush expanses of Fairmount Park. Philadelphia's culinary scene, though perhaps smaller, is robust and diverse, with gems like Reading Terminal Market offering a taste of local flavors and cultures. The change in weather will introduce you to the beauty of four distinct seasons, allowing you to experience the vibrant fall foliage in the Wissahickon Valley Park or the lively spring blooms at the Philadelphia Flower Show. This move opens up opportunities to explore a city rich in American history, from the Liberty Bell to Independence Hall, while enjoying the benefits of a more affordable and less crowded living environment.
San Francisco vs. Philadelphia Food Guide
Food is an integral aspect of experiencing a new city's culture and lifestyle. In our guide, we make a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Philadelphia to give you a taste of what your new home has to offer, ensuring a smoother transition. Whether you're craving sourdough in San Francisco or a cheesesteak in Philadelphia, understanding the local food scene is essential.
| San Francisco | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Philly Cheesesteak |
| Most popular meat dish | Cioppino | Roast Pork Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Mission Burrito | 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 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
San Francisco's food scene is characterized by its innovation and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, as showcased by the city's signature sourdough bread and the diverse offerings at Tartine Bakery, Slanted Door, and Sotto Mare. Mission District's burritos pay homage to the city's rich Mexican-American heritage. On the east coast, Philadelphia's culinary identity is deeply connected to comfort food, with the Philly Cheesesteak standing as a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural pride. Pat's King of Steaks and Reading Terminal Market are quintessential stops for anyone looking to dive into Philadelphia's food scene. Whether it's San Francisco's health-conscious and vegan-friendly options or Philadelphia's hearty and comforting meals, each city offers a unique taste of local culture that reflects their diverse communities and histories.
San Francisco vs. Philadelphia Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the epicurean landscape of a new city can be a cornerstone of feeling at home. This comparison aims to bridge the gap between San Francisco and Philadelphia, highlighting comparable top restaurants, to make the transition smoother. Whether you're after fine dining or cozy cafés, let this guide serve as your culinary compass.
| San Francisco | Philadelphia | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| State Bird Provisions | Vernick Food & Drink | American cuisine with a creative twist |
| Zuni Café | Parc | French bistro with an iconic setting |
| The Slanted Door | Vietnam Restaurant | Renowned for its Vietnamese cuisine and elegant setting |
| Tartine Bakery | La Colombe | Expertly crafted pastries and coffee |
| Nopa | Osteria | Rustic Italian fare in a warm environment |
| Mission Chinese Food | Dim Sum House | Bold and flavorful Chinese cuisine |
| Gary Danko | Zahav | Modern Israeli dishes in an upscale setting |
| La Taqueria | South Philly Barbacoa | Authentic Mexican street food |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Sam's Morning Glory Diner | Fresh and high-quality seafood options |
| Bi-Rite Creamery | Franklin Fountain | Old-fashioned ice cream parlor vibes |
Exploring the culinary scene is a vital part of getting to know your new city. For instance, San Francisco's State Bird Provisions offers a unique dining experience with American cuisine served dim sum-style, a concept mirrored by Philadelphia's Vernick Food & Drink through its inventive American dishes. On the other end of the spectrum, La Taqueria, known for its mission-style burritos in San Francisco, finds its Philadelphia counterpart in South Philly Barbacoa, celebrated for authentic Mexican fare. Thus, moving from the west to the east coast doesn't mean you have to leave behind the flavors you love. Philadelphia offers an array of dining experiences that echo the iconic and diverse tastes of San Francisco, ensuring that you'll find a new favorite spot in no time.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Philadelphia Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. Here's how San Francisco and Philadelphia compare to ensure you make an informed decision. This chart aims to highlight the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle between these two vibrant cities.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian & Modern | Colonial & Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean Views, Tech-friendly | Historical Landmarks, Green Spaces |
The substantial difference in median home prices and rent between San Francisco and Philadelphia might catch your eye first. San Francisco boasts breathtaking ocean views and state-of-the-art amenities in its homes, catering to a tech-savvy population. Meanwhile, Philadelphia offers a rich tapestry of history and greenery, with housing that frequently highlights proximity to historical landmarks and expansive parks. This contrast in lifestyle and surroundings reflects in the cities' architecture as well, where San Francisco’s Victorian meets modern style contrasts with Philadelphia's blend of colonial and modern designs. Both cities score high on walkability, but if biking is your preference, Philadelphia offers slightly better infrastructure. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate your big move more smoothly.
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 Francisco vs. Philadelphia Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather may change is crucial. Comparing the weather patterns between San Francisco and Philadelphia is essential to prepare for the new climate you'll encounter. This includes everything from summer highs to the number of sunny days you can expect.
San Francisco, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Philadelphia, PA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Fires | Snowstorms, Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from the mild, foggy climate of San Francisco to the more extreme seasonal variations of Philadelphia requires adjustments. Philadelphia experiences hot, humid summers and cold winters with significant snowfall, contrasting with San Francisco's cooler, more temperate conditions year-round. The higher summer temperatures and humidity in Philadelphia might require a different approach to hydration and cooling. Likewise, the winter cold and potential for snow in Philadelphia are significant changes that may necessitate investing in warmer clothing and perhaps even snow removal equipment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Philadelphia
When planning a move from San Francisco, CA to Philadelphia, PA , understanding the financial landscape of your new city is crucial. This comparison sheds light on what you might expect in terms of living costs, taxes, and economic opportunities, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $52,899 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 126.5 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 (max) | 3.07 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 1.399 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 8 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Moving from San Francisco to Philadelphia, you'll find stark differences in financial landscapes. While San Francisco boasts a high average household income, it's also marked by a considerable cost of living—a contrast to Philadelphia's more moderate standards. Philadelphia offers a lower state income tax, which could mean more of your earnings stay in your pocket. However, it's important to factor in Philadelphia's higher property tax. The shift from technology and finance to education and health services industries may also impact your career opportunities. Understanding these dynamics can help you prepare for a smoother transition.
San Francisco vs. Philadelphia Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be a transformative experience, especially when it comes to adapting to a new community. This quick comparison of the political and religious makeup of San Francisco & Philadelphia offers a glimpse into what you might expect from your new neighbors and the overall community vibe. Whether you're politically active, seeking spiritual connections, or just curious about your future city's social fabric, this overview is designed to help.
| San Francisco | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic-majority | Liberal/Democratic-majority |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, strong LGBTQ+ advocacy | Progressive with focus on social equity, rising progressive voices |
| Religion | Diverse; includes Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism, and others | Diverse; stronger emphasis on Christianity, but includes other faiths |
While San Francisco and Philadelphia share a liberal and Democratic-majority political landscape, the local political scene in each city has its nuances. San Francisco is well-known for its progressive stances and strong LGBTQ+ advocacy, reflected in policies and local community support. In contrast, Philadelphia's political scene is also progressive but focuses more broadly on social equity and is witnessing a rise in progressive voices across the board. When it comes to religion, both cities boast diversity, with San Francisco having a slightly more varied religious landscape compared to Philadelphia's stronger emphasis on Christianity amidst its diversity. Transitioning from San Francisco to Philadelphia, you'll find common ground in political beliefs and values, with local flavors and priorities adding depth to your new home's character.
San Francisco vs. Philadelphia Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Francisco, CA to Philadelphia, PA will bring significant changes to your daily commute and transportation experience. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Philadelphia is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, preparing you for a smoother transition.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 32 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Yes |
In San Francisco, the high availability of public transit options such as BART and Muni, combined with congested roads, makes it quite feasible to live without a car. Philadelphia, while slightly less congested, also boasts accessible public transportation like SEPTA, which makes navigating the city without a car possible. The average commute time is slightly shorter in Philadelphia, possibly due to its less intense traffic congestion compared to San Francisco. This information should prove useful as you adapt to your new city's rhythms and plan your daily commutes.
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