Ann Arbor, MI to Philadelphia, PA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Ann Arbor to Philadelphia typically costs $2,600–$6,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 582 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Ann Arbor to Philadelphia
Moving from Ann Arbor, MI to Philadelphia, PA typically costs $2,600–$6,300 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 582-mile move from Ann Arbor 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
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $2,111 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $4,871 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $1,314 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
Studio apartment
Feb 07, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 29, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 22, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 20, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 20, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 07, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 05, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 01, 2026
Studio apartment
Dec 20, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 29, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Ann Arbor to Philadelphia
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Ann Arbor to Philadelphia might be as low as $1,600, while a four-bedroom could reach $9,500.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Ann Arbor.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $500 to $1,400 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Philadelphia, PA to Ann Arbor, MI guide.
Best Ann Arbor to Philadelphia movers by type
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Best professional movers from Ann Arbor to Philadelphia
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Ann Arbor to Philadelphia, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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 MI→PA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 84 Michigan movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Ann Arbor to Philadelphia
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Philadelphia runs about 17% higher for singles and 16% higher for families than Ann Arbor.
Singles spend around $2,541 in Philadelphia versus $2,176 in Ann Arbor; families pay $6,190 compared with $5,344.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Ann Arbor | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,831 | $1,791 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,763 | $3,116 |
| Average home value | $474,909 | $216,914 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,964 | $70,746 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,176 | $2,541 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,344 | $6,190 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.5% | 10.6% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 3.07% |
- Good news! When moving to Philadelphia from Ann Arbor, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 25% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 54% cheaper in Philadelphia, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 6% higher in Philadelphia than in Ann Arbor, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Philadelphia, as the cost of living for a single person in Philadelphia is 17% greater than in Ann Arbor. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Philadelphia, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 16% more than it is in Ann Arbor.
- The unemployment rate in Philadelphia exceeds that of Ann Arbor by about 203%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Philadelphia exceed those in Ann Arbor by 33%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 28% lower in Pennsylvania than in Michigan. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Ann Arbor and Philadelphia, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Ann Arbor | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $158.05 | $269.29 |
| Cell phone plan | $48.64 | $61.40 |
| Dozen eggs | $2.70 | $4.30 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.60 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $75.00 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $44.00 | $48.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Ann Arbor than in Philadelphia, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Ann Arbor than in Philadelphia.
- Eggs are less expensive in Ann Arbor than in Philadelphia.
- Bread costs less in Ann Arbor than in Philadelphia.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Ann Arbor than in Philadelphia.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Ann Arbor than in Philadelphia.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Ann Arbor than in Philadelphia.
How life is different in Ann Arbor vs. Philadelphia
| Ann Arbor | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 123,851 | 1,603,797 |
| Transportation score | 7 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 52 | 75 |
| Bike friendliness score | 71 | 67 |
| Crime index | 31.0 | 66.09 |
| Safety index | 79.18 | 33.91 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Philadelphia's population is about 1195% greater than Ann Arbor.
- Philadelphia's public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Ann Arbor's score of 7.
- Philadelphia is more walkable than Ann Arbor with a score of 75 out of 100 vs Ann Arbor's 52 out of 100.
- Philadelphia has a bike-friendliness score of 67 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Ann Arbor, which has a score of 71.
- Philadelphia's crime rate is higher than Ann Arbor with a score of 66.09 compared to Ann Arbor's 31.0. This means that Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0%.
- Philadelphia is considered to be less safe than Ann Arbor with a score of 33.91 vs Ann Arbor's 79.18.
- Air quality in Philadelphia is Good, and in Ann Arbor it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Ann Arbor to Philadelphia move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Pennsylvania moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Pennsylvania, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Philadelphia without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Philadelphia
Ready to relocate to Philly? Here are some of the top 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
Now that you've made the move to Pennsylvania, it's the perfect time to explore Philadelphia. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Philadelphia include museums and art centers like the Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes, and Museum of the American Revolution.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Wissahickon Valley Park, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Fairmount Park, and Love Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on 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 Ann Arbor to Philadelphia?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Ann Arbor to Philadelphia. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Ann Arbor.
When is the cheapest time to move from Ann Arbor to Philadelphia?
With many people choosing to move from Ann Arbor to Philadelphia in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Ann Arbor to Philadelphia take?
Covering 582 miles, the move from Ann Arbor, MI to Philadelphia, PA typically takes one to six days. Some Ann Arbor movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Philadelphia can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Ann Arbor offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts. 1 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Ann Arbor can handle specialty items for my move to Philadelphia?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Ann Arbor, 20 movers can handle pianos. 7 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of MI, there are 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
