Best Boston to Philadelphia Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Boston to Philadelphia and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 311 mile move from Massachusetts to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 82 Boston 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boston 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 Boston to Philadelphia Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Intelligent labor & Moving | 9.51 | 9.55 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | EverSafe Moving Co. | 9.50 | 9.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Pineapple Movers | 9.44 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Boston to Philadelphia
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 311 miles from Boston, MA to Philadelphia, PA will cost on average $1,739 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Philadelphia move is roughly $4,157. 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 | $1,172 | 300 ft³ | 3.91 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,739 | 450 ft³ | 3.86 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,866 | 750 ft³ | 3.82 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,157 | 1100 ft³ | 3.78 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,979 | 1600 ft³ | 3.74 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,649 | 1800 ft³ | 3.69 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Philadelphia to Boston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Boston to Philadelphia Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 22 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (2022) |
Centaur Moving
This listing has been claimed by Centaur Moving171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |
Intelligent labor & Moving
18 Beck Rd
Arlington, MA, 2476
About Intelligent labor & Moving
Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance and interstate moving services
- Cheap moving rates with two or three movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2065664 / 725481 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 43,583 (2023) |
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) |
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.
Boston vs. Philadelphia Neighborhood Comparison
Moving between cities can be both exciting and daunting, especially when trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide aims to compare Boston, MA & Philadelphia, PA neighborhoods to help you familiarize yourself with your new city. By using Boston's beloved neighborhoods as a baseline, we'll match you with similar communities in Philadelphia to make your transition a little smoother.
| Boston | Philadelphia | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Back Bay | Rittenhouse Square | Upscale, historic charm |
| Beacon Hill | Society Hill | Cobblestone streets, historic homes |
| South End | Queen Village | Diverse, bustling community life |
| North End | Italian Market | Rich cultural heritage, culinary hotspot |
| Fenway | Fairmount | Vibrant arts scene, near beautiful parks |
| Jamaica Plain | Manayunk | Laid-back vibe, green spaces |
| Charlestown | Old City | Historical landmarks, waterfront views |
| East Boston | Fishtown | Up-and-coming, eclectic mix of options |
| Dorchester | Kensington | Diverse, community-centric |
| South Boston | Northern Liberties | Trendy, lively nightlife |
If you’re enchanted by the upscale and historic charm of Back Bay with its architectural marvels and stylish boutiques along Newbury Street, you’ll find a similar vibe in Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square. This area boasts an array of high-end shops and quaint parks, making it a quintessential blend of luxury and tranquility. For those captivated by the vibrant arts and sports scene in Fenway, Fairmount offers an equally engaging cultural experience with nearby attractions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and scenic park areas including the famous "Rocky" steps. Beacon Hill’s resemblance to Society Hill cannot be overstated, where the charm of cobblestone streets and an abundance of historical landmarks evoke a sense of timelessness, akin to wandering the Freedom Trail in Boston. As you venture into new dining experiences, the rich culinary heritage of the Italian Market serves as Philadelphia’s answer to the North End, offering an array of specialty foods that celebrate the city’s diverse culture.
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 Boston to Philadelphia
Deciding to relocate from Boston, MA to Philadelphia, PA requires thoughtful consideration of various factors. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, allowing you to weigh the cons of Boston against the pros of Philadelphia , and vice versa. Understanding both sides will help make an informed decision.
Boston, MA- Higher living costs
- Harsher winters
- Smaller city size
- Less historical sites
- More competitive job market
Philadelphia, PA- More affordable
- Milder winters
- Larger city feel
- Rich in history
- Diverse job opportunities
Philadelphia, PA- Fewer top-ranked universities
- Less seafood variety
- Fewer tech opportunities
- Smaller historical focus
- More modest cultural scene
Boston, MA- Renowned universities
- Better seafood
- More tech jobs
- Historic landmarks
- Richer cultural scene
Moving from Boston, MA to Philadelphia, PA introduces you to a city teeming with historical richness and cultural diversity. In Philadelphia, you'll find an array of neighborhoods each with its unique charm, from the vibrant streets of Fishtown known for its artsy vibe and trendy eateries like Pizza Brain, to the historic cobblestone lanes of Old City, where the past comes alive. While Boston offers renowned universities like MIT and Harvard, Philadelphia counters with prestigious institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia's milder winters compared to Boston's can mean more enjoyable outdoor activities year-round in Fairmount Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country. For those seeking a taste of history, Philadelphia's rich heritage is evident in landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, unlike Boston's focus on Revolutionary War sites. Ultimately, each city has its unique offerings, and this relocation could open the door to diverse job opportunities, a lower cost of living, and a chance to immerse yourself in America's rich historical fabric.
Boston vs. Philadelphia Food Guide
When relocating, diving into the local food scene is key to understanding your new home. In this guide, we will conduct a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Philadelphia to help you get a taste of what each city offers. This comparison will allow you to be better informed about the culinary delights awaiting you.
| Boston | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Clam Chowder | Philly Cheesesteak |
| Most popular meat dish | Lobster Roll | Roast Pork Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Food Trucks offering Seafood | Pretzels |
| Most popular vegan food | Arugula Fig Salad | Vegan Philly Cheesesteak |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In both Boston and Philadelphia, the local cuisines reflect the cities' rich histories and cultural diversities. Boston's famed Clam Chowder and Lobster Rolls are must-try dishes that can be found at the historic Union Oyster House among others, reflecting the city's deep connection with its seafood heritage. On the other side, Philadelphia takes pride in its iconic Philly Cheesesteak, with legendary spots like Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks standing as pillars of this culinary tradition. Moreover, Philadelphia's food scene is slightly more vegan-friendly, offering unique takes on classic dishes such as the Vegan Philly Cheesesteak. Both cities, however, cater well to foodies and health-conscious individuals alike, boasting a vibrant array of food trucks and restaurants that serve up a plethora of cuisines suited for every palate.
Boston vs. Philadelphia Restaurant Comparison
Making a new city feel like home starts with finding those special eateries that resonate with your tastes and dining habits. This restaurant comparison between Boston, MA and Philadelphia, PA aims to ease your transition by suggesting new haunts based on your old favorites. Whether you're into high-end dining, casual meals, or iconic spots, this guide has got you covered.
| Boston | Philadelphia | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| O Ya | Vetri Cucina | Elevated Italian courses with a similar focus on detail and quality. |
| Neptune Oyster | Oyster House | Iconic seafood offerings in a comparable cozy setting. |
| Uni | Double Knot | Inventive sushi and izakaya dishes with a trendy atmosphere. |
| Toro | Amada | Authentic Spanish tapas offering a similar vibrant and social dining experience. |
| Tatte Bakery & Café | La Colombe | Artisan coffee and pastries, perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch. |
| Mike's City Diner | Honey's Sit 'n Eat | Home-style comfort food with a Philly twist. |
| No. 9 Park | Parc | Upscale bistro dining mirroring the elegant ambiance and French influences. |
| Santarpio's Pizza | Pizzeria Vetri | Crafting Neapolitan pizzas with a dedication to traditional techniques. |
| Flour Bakery + Cafe | Metropolitan Bakery | Freshly baked goods and a local favorite for light fare. |
| The Daily Catch | Little Fish | Small-scale seafood restaurant serving fresh, seasonal dishes. |
In transitioning from Boston's diverse and exciting culinary landscape to Philadelphia's rich food culture, you will find parallels that offer the same level of satisfaction. Venturing into Vetri Cucina, you'll discover a level of culinary artistry that mirrors O Ya, with both restaurants providing a gastronomic experience defined by their meticulous attention to quality and detail. If it's the casual yet iconic seafood setting of Neptune Oyster you fear missing, Philadelphia's Oyster House stands ready to welcome you with open arms and dishes that echo the freshness and ambiance you've cherished. And for those weekend brunch outings to Tatte Bakery & Café, La Colombe in Philadelphia offers a sanctuary for coffee enthusiasts and brunch lovers alike. Each establishment on this list has been selected for their ability to offer a similar vibe, quality of food, and dining experience to ease your transition and make Philadelphia feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Boston vs. Philadelphia Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape of your destination is crucial. This comparison between Boston, MA, and Philadelphia, PA sheds light on their housing characteristics, aiding in making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Boston | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Federal and Victorian | Colonial and Federal |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to parks and historic landmarks | Access to public transportation and vibrant neighborhoods |
When comparing Boston and Philadelphia, it's evident that the cost of living in terms of housing is significantly lower in Philadelphia. For instance, the median home price in Philadelphia is less than half that of Boston, making it an attractive option for homebuyers. Moreover, the Urban Lifestyle score, slightly higher in Boston, reflects its denser, more walkable urban fabric, although Philadelphia is not far behind with its own vibrant neighborhoods and high Bikeability score. Philadelphia's architecture, with its deep roots in Colonial and Federal styles, offers a rich historical backdrop, akin to but distinct from Boston's Federal and Victorian scene. These differences in housing costs, lifestyle, and urban character between the two cities can greatly influence your decision on where to relocate.
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.
Boston vs. Philadelphia Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Boston, MA to Philadelphia, PA, understanding how the weather will shift is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight weather differences to help you adapt to your new environment seamlessly.
Boston, MA
Philadelphia, PA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Philadelphia, PA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Philadelphia, PA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boston, MA
Philadelphia, PA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Boston | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Nor'easters, Blizzards | Thunderstorms, Hurricanes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both cities offer four distinct seasons, moving from Boston to Philadelphia will introduce slightly warmer temperatures, especially during summer nights. You'll enjoy a bit more sunshine in Philadelphia, a welcome change for many. However, be prepared for a different mix of natural disasters; Boston's daunting nor'easters and blizzards are traded for Philadelphia's risk of hurricanes and more frequent thunderstorms. Notably, despite these differences, air quality and top seasonal allergies are similar in both cities, ensuring a familiar challenge to those sensitive to such conditions.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Philadelphia
When planning a move from Boston, MA to Philadelphia, PA, it's vital to consider the financial aspects that accompany such a transition. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income between Boston and Philadelphia will affect your budget can help you make an informed decision and prepare for your new life.
| Comparison | Boston | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,283 | $52,899 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.5 | 126.5 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 3.07 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.2 | 1.399 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.25 | 8 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Finance | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Higher | Moderate |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Moderate to High |
Moving from Boston to Philadelphia can be a financially motivated decision for many, given Philadelphia's significantly lower cost of living index and average household income. This adjustment can be particularly advantageous if your income source remains constant or doesn't decrease proportionally. The difference in state income tax rates, with Pennsylvania at 3.07% suggests more take-home pay, but this benefit may be offset by Philadelphia's higher sales and property taxes. The economic landscape, marked by dominant industries in both cities, suggests a shift from finance in Boston to more manufacturing in Philadelphia. Understanding these dynamics is essential to navigate the economic changes moving brings.
Boston vs. Philadelphia Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Boston, MA to Philadelphia, PA, it helps to understand the communities you're moving between. Here's a comparison of the politics between Boston & Philadelphia alongside a snapshot of the religious landscape, giving you a quick, at-a-glance view of the local makeups.
| Boston | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive with strong support for education and healthcare initiatives | Progressive with an emphasis on economic development and public safety |
| Religion | Christianity (Catholicism predominant), followed by Judaism and Islam | Christianity (diverse denominations), followed by Islam and Judaism |
While both cities lean liberal and Democratic politically, the focus of their local politics differs. Boston is known for its prioritization of education and healthcare reforms, reflective of its broad array of educational institutions and medical facilities. Philadelphia, on the other hand, places greater emphasis on economic development and public safety, crucial for its diverse and densely populated urban landscape. The religious makeup in both cities is predominantly Christian, though the specific denominations and the prominence of other religions like Judaism and Islam vary slightly between them. Understanding these nuances can help you better anticipate the community vibe and local issues that might affect you after your move.
Boston vs. Philadelphia Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Boston, MA to Philadelphia, PA brings changes in your daily commute and how you'll navigate around the city. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Boston & Philadelphia aims to help you understand what you can expect in terms of commute times, traffic congestion, public transportation availability, and the feasibility of living without a car.
| Comparison | Boston | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 32 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Yes, but less conveniently |
In Boston, while you may often find yourself caught in traffic (with a congestion level of 7 out of 10), the city's robust public transit system, the MBTA, makes it easy to navigate the city without a car. Philadelphia, on the other hand, offers a somewhat less crowded commute, with its traffic congestion rating slightly lower at 6 out of 10. However, when it comes to public transportation, Philadelphia's SEPTA system, while extensive, doesn't quite match the convenience and coverage of Boston's. Both cities allow the possibility of living car-free, though Philadelphia might require a bit more planning for certain commutes.
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