Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Chicago to Philadelphia typically costs $2,600–$6,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 759 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Chicago to Philadelphia
Moving from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA typically costs $2,600–$6,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 759-mile move from Chicago to Philadelphia, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $2,638 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $4,133 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $1,022 for a studio apartment using a moving container.
Studio apartment
Feb 04, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 04, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 02, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 30, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 12, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 07, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 01, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 02, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 27, 2025
Factors that affect moving costs from Chicago to Philadelphia
Your total cost will depend on:
- How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Chicago to Philadelphia may only cost $1,900, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $8,800.
- The season you're moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Chicago.
- Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($600–$1,600), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL guide.
Best Chicago to Philadelphia movers by type
Professional
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Local
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Chicago to Philadelphia
Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Chicago to Philadelphia. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best IL→PA movers
moveBuddha's dedicated analysts have scrutinized moving rates across 100 Illinois moving firms, selecting the top providers by assessing customer approval, reviews, and affordability.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The team ensures timely service delivery, engages in effective communication, and adheres to the projected costs.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Moving isn’t perfect, and mistakes will happen. We highlight movers that handle those situations honestly and put effort into resolving them fairly.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): This mover keeps its website up to date and provides timely, professional replies to questions or concerns raised online.
- Service options (10%): Companies stand out when they provide comprehensive options such as full-service packing, safe storage, handling of specialty items, and expedited shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Chicago to Philadelphia
Many movers find Philadelphia easier on the wallet than Chicago - roughly 30% less for singles and 33% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,541 for one person in Philadelphia versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it's $6,190 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,791 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $3,116 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $216,914 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $70,746 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $2,541 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $6,190 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 10.6% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 3.07% |
- Rent is about 17% less expensive in Philadelphia than in Chicago, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
- Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 27% cheaper in Philadelphia than in Chicago.
- There's good news: the average income differences between Philadelphia and Chicago are within a modest 5%, minimizing financial adjustments.
- Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Philadelphia. The cost of living for a single person there is 30% below that of Chicago.
- A move to Philadelphia can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 33% lower compared to Chicago.
- Philadelphia has a higher unemployment rate than Chicago by about 18%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
- Sales taxes are 22% cheaper in Philadelphia compared to Chicago. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
- Income taxes are 38% less in Pennsylvania compared to Illinois, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.
Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Chicago versus Philadelphia:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $269.29 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $61.40 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $4.30 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $48.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in Philadelphia, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Chicago than in Philadelphia.
- Eggs cost more in Chicago than in Philadelphia.
- Bread costs are about the same in both places.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Chicago than in Philadelphia.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Philadelphia.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Philadelphia.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Philadelphia
| Chicago | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 1,603,797 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 75 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 67 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 66.09 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 33.91 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Philadelphia's population is about 42% less than Chicago.
- Philadelphia's public transportation score is within about 5% of Chicago, making them very similar.
- Philadelphia and Chicago are similarly walkable.
- Philadelphia has a bike-friendliness score of 67 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
- Philadelphia's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 66.09 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Philadelphia and Chicago have a similar safety level, with scores of 33.91 and 33.87.
- Air quality in Philadelphia is Good, and in Chicago it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Philadelphia move
- HOA rules: Plan time to look into your HOA or community rules and regulations before moving day arrives, to avoid any delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- State licensing: For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services. Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in Pennsylvania, visit the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Pennsylvania, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
- Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Philadelphia. Get started here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
- Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Where to live in Philadelphia
With your sights set on Philly, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Philadelphia.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Cedar Park
- Fishtown
- Manayunk
- Point Breeze
- Washington Square West
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bella Vista
- Bustleton
- Chestnut Hill
- Fitler Square/Rittenhouse Square (City Center West)
- Foxchase
- Roxborough
Things to do in Philadelphia
With your move to Pennsylvania complete, you can dive right into experiencing Philadelphia. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you'll never run out of things to do:
- Arts and culture: Philadelphia is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes, and Museum of the American Revolution.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Wissahickon Valley Park, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Fairmount Park, and Love Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)Philadelphia Eagles (NFL)Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)Philadelphia Union (MLS) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Philadelphia?
If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Chicago to Philadelphia. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Chicago.
When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to Philadelphia?
Want to save on your move from Chicago to Philadelphia? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.
How long does a move from Chicago to Philadelphia take?
The 759-mile move from Chicago, IL, to Philadelphia, PA, takes two to seven days. Some Chicago movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Philadelphia.
What kinds of discounts do Chicago movers offer?
Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. 2 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.
Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.
Need help moving a piano or antiques in Chicago?
These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 54 movers in Chicago provide piano moving services. 40 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 70 piano movers and 48 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,296 and 1,463.
Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.
