Best Philadelphia to Knoxville Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Philadelphia to Knoxville and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 626 mile move from Pennsylvania to Tennessee go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 42 Philadelphia to Knoxville 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 $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Philadelphia compared to Knoxville. 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 Philadelphia to Knoxville Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Philadelphia to Knoxville Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1EverSafe Moving Co.9.509.5Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2Pineapple Movers9.449.62Authorized For HHGContact
3Boundless Moving & Storage9.339.36Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4banning moving9.209.47Authorized For HHGContact
5Buster’s Box’s Moving8.989.01Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Philadelphia to Knoxville

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 626 miles from Philadelphia, PA to Knoxville, TN will cost on average $2,314 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Philadelphia to Knoxville move is roughly $5,545. 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$1,557300 ft³5.19
1 Bedroom$2,314450 ft³5.14
2 Bedrooms$3,818750 ft³5.09
3 Bedrooms$5,5451100 ft³5.04
4 Bedrooms$7,9861600 ft³4.99
5+ Bedrooms$8,8941800 ft³4.94
*Please note: These Pennsylvania to Tennessee moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Pennsylvania & Tennessee. 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 PA to TN mover.
Pennsylvania iconArrow iconTennessee icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Knoxville to Philadelphia guide.

Compare the 5 Best Philadelphia to Knoxville 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
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
2
Boundless Moving & Storage Logo

Boundless Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,378+ data points

5595 N. Lee Hwy

Cleveland, TN, 37312

About Boundless Moving & Storage

Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2798532 / 934519

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved358,520 (2022)
View Full Review
3
b

banning moving

Exceptional9.20/10
based on 437+ data points

2224 Apple Way

Bensalem, PA, 19020

About banning moving

Banning Moving is a professional moving company focused on providing reliable and caring services for its customers. With experienced movers, the...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3350149 / 1070919

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,675 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Buster’s Box’s Moving Logo

Buster’s Box’s Moving

Superb8.98/10
based on 430+ data points

5927 John May Dr

Knoxville, TN, 37921

About Buster’s Box’s Moving

Buster’s Box’s Moving is a Knoxville, TN-based moving company that offers a variety of services including local moves, out of state...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4125824 / 1578852

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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.

Philadelphia vs. Knoxville Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with the new area. This comparison guide is designed to compare local neighborhoods between Philadelphia, PA & Knoxville, TN, helping you find a new neighborhood that feels like home. By examining the similarities between popular neighborhoods in both cities, you can better envision your life in your new locale.

PhiladelphiaKnoxvilleHow They're Similar
Rittenhouse SquareSequoyah HillsAffluent, historic vibes
FishtownOld North KnoxvilleTrendy, artistic community
ManayunkBeardenBustling, eclectic shops
Center CityDowntown KnoxvilleUrban, cultural hub
University CityFort SandersVibrant student life
Northern LibertiesFourth and GillHistoric, with a modern twist
South PhillySouth KnoxvilleCommunity-centric, diverse
West PhiladelphiaWest HillsResidential, with parkland
Old CityMarket SquareRich history, entertainment
East PassyunkSequoyah HillsVibrant dining scene

If you're charmed by the historic and affluent atmosphere of Rittenhouse Square, you'll find a similar ambience in Sequoyah Hills, known for its beautiful homes and scenic parks like Cherokee Boulevard. Fans of Fishtown's vibrant art scene and cafes will appreciate Old North Knoxville's trendy personality and the creative flair of Central Street. For those drawn to the eclectic and bustling energy of Manayunk, Bearden offers a comparable mix of unique shops, dining, and local artistry, highlighting attractions like The Tree & Vine. Those moving from the heart of Philadelphia's urban core, Center City, will find Downtown Knoxville's Market Square equally appealing for its cultural events and historic charm, serving as a hub for both entertainment and dining like the famed Tupelo Honey.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Knoxville

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Philadelphia to Knoxville

Moving from one city to another offers a unique opportunity to reassess your lifestyle and priorities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation from Philadelphia, PA to Knoxville, TN . Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of such a move can help you make an informed decision tailored to your preferences and needs.

CONs
PROs
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Colder winters
  • Dense urban setting
  • Heavier traffic
Knoxville, TN iconKnoxville, TN
  • Lower cost of living
  • Milder winters
  • More green spaces
  • Less traffic
Knoxville, TN iconKnoxville, TN
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Fewer historical sites
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer job industries
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Vibrant city life
  • Rich historical sites
  • Diverse cultural experiences
  • More job opportunities

Moving from Philadelphia to Knoxville comes with its set of changes. You'll transition from the bustling streets and the historical beauty of places like Independence Hall and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, to the serene landscapes and vibrant culture of Knoxville. Knoxville is renowned for its access to the great outdoors, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just a short drive away. The city's Market Square is a hub of activity, offering a variety of restaurants, such as Knox Mason, and shops that foster a strong community vibe. While you might miss Philadelphia's extensive historical sites and cultural diversity, Knoxville's lower cost of living, milder winters, and abundance of green spaces like World’s Fair Park, offer a refreshing change. It's about finding the right balance between what you're leaving behind and the new experiences you're about to embrace.

Philadelphia vs. Knoxville Food Guide

Comparing the local cuisine between Philadelphia & Knoxville is essential for anyone moving. Food plays a crucial role in understanding the local culture and what living in a new city will be like. This comparison will help you get familiar with the food scene in your new home.

PhiladelphiaKnoxville
Most iconic local food itemPhilly CheesesteakBiscuits and Gravy
Most popular meat dishRoast Pork SandwichBBQ Pulled Pork
Most popular street food itemSoft PretzelSmoked Sausages
Most popular vegan foodSeitan CheesesteakBBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Pat's King of Steaks
  • Reading Terminal Market
  • Zahav
  • Sweet P's BBQ
  • Stock & Barrel
  • The French Market
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Philadelphia, the iconic Philly Cheesesteak is a must-try, with places like Pat's King of Steaks offering an authentic experience. Reading Terminal Market, another landmark, showcases the city's diverse culinary scene. Moving to Knoxville, the food landscape changes with Southern classics taking center stage, such as biscuits and gravy. Sweet P's BBQ is renowned for its BBQ pulled pork, embodying Knoxville's love for smoky flavors. Additionally, Knoxville's expanding food truck scene and vegan options, like BBQ jackfruit, indicate a growing foodie culture that's inviting for newcomers.

Philadelphia vs. Knoxville Restaurant Comparison

As you plan your move from Philadelphia to Knoxville, finding those go-to restaurants in your new city is crucial for feeling at home. This comparison of top eateries from Philadelphia to Knoxville aims to help you discover your next favorite dining spots, using familiar favorites as a guide.

PhiladelphiaKnoxvilleWhat You'll Love
ZahavEmiliaOffers inventive, seasonal dishes that match Zahav’s modern approach to traditional flavors.
Reading Terminal MarketMarket Square Farmer's MarketA diverse and vibrant space offering local eateries and artisan goods reminiscent of Reading Terminal’s bustling atmosphere.
Vetri CucinaAltruda's Italian RestaurantClassic, hearty Italian cuisine that echoes Vetri Cucina’s upscale ambiance and attention to authentic flavors.
Federal DonutsDuck DonutsKnown for made-to-order donuts that provide a similar custom and unique donut experience as Federal Donuts.
Pat's King of SteaksCurious DogOffers a cheesesteak that rivals the original Philly experience with their unique take and high-quality ingredients.
El VezSoKno TacoProvides an eclectic mix of innovative Mexican fare, capturing El Vez’s vibrant and spirited dining experience.
Franklin FountainPhoenix Pharmacy and FountainA nostalgic trip with homemade ice cream and a personalized pharmacy experience reminiscent of Franklin Fountain’s charm.
ParcThe French Market CreperieOffers a slice of Parisian café culture in Knoxville, with a focus on fresh, authentic French crepes and pastries.
SurayaYassin's Falafel HouseCelebrated for its heartwarming Middle Eastern cuisine that mirrors Suraya’s focus on family recipes and quality ingredients.
Pizzeria BeddiaA Dopo PizzaEmphasizes sourdough wood-fired pizzas, offering a similar commitment to quality and craft as Pizzeria Beddia.

Exploring Knoxville's dining scene reveals a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences paralleling those in Philadelphia. For instance, Emilia's seasonal approach to cooking offers an inventive menu that would remind you of Zahav's modern take on traditional dishes. Meanwhile, Duck Donuts, with its made-to-order approach, captures the same innovative spirit that makes Federal Donuts a Philadelphia staple. For those missing the Italian grandeur of Vetri Cucina, Altruda's Italian Restaurant provides a slice of comfort with its classic and hearty Italian offerings. Each Knoxville counterpart doesn’t simply mimic; they reinterpret with local flair, ensuring each meal is a discovery, an adventure, and a taste of home — new or old.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Philadelphia vs. Knoxville Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial element of any move. Understanding how Philadelphia's and Knoxville's housing markets compare will help you make an informed decision. This comparison covers everything from costs to the lifestyle each city offers.

ComparisonPhiladelphiaKnoxville
Typical Architecture StyleGeorgian, Federal, and Row HousesCraftsman, Cottage, and Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to public transportation, historic detailsViews of the Smoky Mountains, spacious yards

Choosing where to live involves more than comparing numbers; it's about understanding what daily life looks like in your new city. For instance, Philadelphia's rich history is reflected in its architecture, boasting Georgian and Federal styles, whereas Knoxville presents a more down-to-earth appeal with Craftsman and Cottage styles. The walkability score of Philadelphia implies a more foot-friendly city, ideal for those who prefer to rely less on a car. In contrast, Knoxville, with its spacious yards and picturesque mountain views, offers a quieter pace. Both cities provide unique urban lifestyles; the decision comes down to which environment best fits your personal and financial needs.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Knoxville, TN

1. Sequoyah Hills: With expansive green spaces like Sequoyah Park, your pets can enjoy long walks along the Tennessee River, making it a haven for dog owners.

2. Bearden: Bearden offers a pet-friendly community vibe, with numerous farmers' markets and outdoor cafes where your pets are welcome to join you.

3. Old City: The Old City neighborhood is bustling with pet-friendly bars and restaurants, alongside stylish boutiques that often allow pets to accompany their owners while shopping.

Philadelphia vs. Knoxville Weather Considerations

Moving between cities means adapting to new weather patterns. This comparison aims to show you how weather conditions between Philadelphia, PA and Knoxville, TN significantly differ, understanding these changes is crucial to your adjustment. Let’s explore how the climate varies to help you prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
87°F / 68°F

Philadelphia, PA

88°F / 67°F

Knoxville, TN

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
40°F / 26°F

Philadelphia, PA

47°F / 29°F

Knoxville, TN

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47"

Philadelphia, PA

50"

Knoxville, TN

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
13"

Philadelphia, PA

6"

Knoxville, TN

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonPhiladelphiaKnoxville
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersWinter Storms, HurricanesThunderstorms, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Philadelphia and Knoxville experience warm summers and cool winters, Knoxville, on average, enjoys slightly warmer winters. This could mean lighter winter clothing and possibly less heating costs for you. However, Knoxville tends to have more thunderstorms and a higher chance of tornadoes, something to consider for emergency preparedness. The two cities have comparable days of sunshine and humidity levels, but with Knoxville having a slightly better air quality, you might find breathing easier, especially if you have respiratory concerns. Adapting to local allergens, however, will be an essential part of your move, with Knoxville having mold as a top seasonal allergy risk not as prevalent in Philadelphia.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, it's crucial to understand how your finances might be affected. By comparing the cost of living, taxes, and income between Philadelphia, PA and Knoxville, TN , you can make a more informed decision about your relocation.

ComparisonPhiladelphiaKnoxville
Avg. Household Income$52,899$45,700
Cost of Living Index126.589.4
State Income Tax3.070 (no state income tax)
Avg. Property Tax0.990.74
Avg. Sales Tax89.75
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Health Services, Professional & Business ServicesManufacturing, Retail Trade, Health Services
AffluenceModerately affluentLess affluent
PovertyRelatively highModerate
HomelessnessModerateLower

Moving from Philadelphia to Knoxville can significantly affect your finances. You may find Knoxville's lower cost of living and absence of state income tax appealing; however, it's accompanied by a lower average household income. Property taxes are also more favorable in Knoxville, potentially making homeownership more accessible. Despite these benefits, it's important to consider the contrast in the local economies and job markets -- Philadelphia's dominance in professional services versus Knoxville's manufacturing and retail landscape could impact your career opportunities and lifestyle.

Philadelphia vs. Knoxville Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Philadelphia, PA, to Knoxville, TN, it’s important to get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the differences you might encounter in your new home. This includes understanding how local views may shift, particularly focusing on the comparison of the politics between Philadelphia & Knoxville and the religious landscapes of both cities. This comparison aims to prepare you for the cultural and community environment you're about to become part of.

PhiladelphiaKnoxville
Political Make-upLean heavily DemocraticMore balanced, but leans Republican
Local PoliticsProgressive policies more commonConservative policies more prevalent
ReligionDiverse religious communitiesStrongly Christian, with a significant Baptist presence

Transitioning from Philadelphia to Knoxville, you might notice a distinct shift in the local political and religious climate. Philadelphia typically supports more progressive policies and has a diverse religious landscape, reflecting its larger population and metropolitan nature. In contrast, Knoxville, while offering a welcoming environment, tends to lean more conservative, especially locally, and has a strong Christian community, particularly within the Baptist denomination. Understanding these dynamics can help you better integrate and engage with your new community.

Philadelphia vs. Knoxville Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Philadelphia, PA to Knoxville, TN, it's essential to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Philadelphia & Knoxville will help you know what to expect on the roads and when planning your travels in these cities.

ComparisonPhiladelphiaKnoxville
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3222
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, with some planningChallenging

Moving from Philadelphia to Knoxville will introduce you to a different commuting landscape. In Philadelphia, the average commute time is longer due to higher traffic congestion, scored at 7 out of 10. However, the city’s robust public transit system, rated an 8, including buses, subways, and trains, makes navigating the city without a car feasible, though it requires some planning. In contrast, Knoxville offers a more relaxed commute, with shorter average times and lower congestion. Yet, the city’s public transit scores significantly lower, making it more challenging to rely solely on these services for daily commutes. For residents, especially those used to Philadelphia's convenience, this might mean adjusting to increased car dependency in Knoxville.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Philadelphia to Knoxville Movers Featured Image