Top-rated movers to make your Philadelphia to Los Angeles move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Philadelphia that offers long-distance services to Los Angeles can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 68 top local movers in Philadelphia who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Philadelphia to Los Angeles.
- Bellhop Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Anchor Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Suburban Solutions Moving & Transport: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Transtar Moving Systems: 4.48 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 2878240
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhop Moving Services
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 125550
Years in Business: 51
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: Anchor Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 10
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 373544
Years in Business: 44
DOT #: 373544
Alternate Names: Gentle Giant Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crane vans
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 39PC00058806
Years in Business: 63
DOT #: 939629
Alternate Names: A Action Family Moving Company, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Philadelphia to Los Angeles?
In Pennsylvania, moving services typically cost around $143 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,289 – $5,468 | $1,397 – $3,275 | $1,472 – $2,736 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,784 – $7,267 | $2,406 – $5,121 | $1,529 – $3,498 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,565 – $11,488 | $3,183 – $6,702 | $1,933 – $3,998 |
Cost to hire movers from Philadelphia to Los Angeles
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Los Angeles from Philadelphia, you can expect prices to land between $1,289 and $5,468. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,784 to $7,267 for the trip from Philadelphia to Los Angeles. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,565 and $11,488.
Cost of moving containers from Philadelphia to Los Angeles
Moving containers from Philadelphia to Los Angeles will cost you $1,397 to $3,275 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,406 to $5,121. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,183 to $6,702. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Pennsylvania.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Philadelphia to Los Angeles
Renting a moving truck from Philadelphia to Los Angeles typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $1,472 and $2,736 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,529 to $3,498. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,933 to $3,998.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Philadelphia to Los Angeles move
The cost of Philadelphia movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,549 for a one-bedroom, or up to $11,166 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Philadelphia.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,472 to $3,953, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Philadelphia to Los Angeles
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Los Angeles runs about 130% higher for singles and 105% higher for families than Philadelphia.
Singles spend around $5,833 in Philadelphia versus $2,541 in Philadelphia; families pay $12,720 compared with $6,190.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Philadelphia | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,791 | $2,603 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,116 | $4,443 |
| Average home value | $216,914 | $2,368,088 |
| Average income (per capita) | $70,746 | $74,993 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,541 | $5,833 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,190 | $12,720 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 10.6% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 9.5% |
| State income tax | 3.07% | 13.3% |
- Planning a move to Los Angeles? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 75% higher than in Philadelphia, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Los Angeles are about 992% higher than those in Philadelphia.
- Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 6% higher in Los Angeles compared to Philadelphia, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Los Angeles, as living costs for a single person are 130% higher than in Philadelphia. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you’re moving your family to Los Angeles, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Los Angeles is 105% higher than in Philadelphia.
- With Los Angeles and Philadelphia having similar unemployment rates, deviating by approximately 5%, job opportunities and market competitiveness remain consistent.
- Sales taxes in Los Angeles are 19% more than in Philadelphia, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in California are 333% above those in Pennsylvania. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Philadelphia and Los Angeles:
| Living Expense | Philadelphia | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $269.29 | $192.54 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.40 | $62.50 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.30 | $7.02 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $4.58 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $90.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $48.67 | $47.76 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Philadelphia than in Los Angeles.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Philadelphia than in Los Angeles.
- Eggs are less expensive in Philadelphia than in Los Angeles.
- Bread costs less in Philadelphia than in Los Angeles.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Philadelphia than in Los Angeles.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Philadelphia than in Los Angeles.
- Gym memberships cost more in Philadelphia than in Los Angeles.
How life is different in Philadelphia vs. Los Angeles
| Philadelphia | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,603,797 | 3,820,914 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 75 | 69 |
| Bike friendliness score | 67 | 59 |
| Crime index | 66.09 | 53.81 |
| Safety index | 33.91 | 46.19 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Los Angeles’s population is about 138% greater than Philadelphia.
- Los Angeles’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is lower than Philadelphia’s score of 9.
- Los Angeles is less walkable than Philadelphia with a score of 69 out of 100 vs Philadelphia’s 75 out of 100.
- Los Angeles has a bike-friendliness score of 59 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Philadelphia, which has a score of 67.
- Los Angeles’s crime rate is lower than Philadelphia with a score of 53.81 compared to Philadelphia’s 66.09. This means that Los Angeles neighborhoods are safer than 53.81% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09%.
- Los Angeles is considered to be safer than Philadelphia with a safety index of 46.19 vs Philadelphia’s 33.91.
- Air quality in Los Angeles is Moderate, and in Philadelphia it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Philadelphia to Los Angeles move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: California’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Los Angeles. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Los Angeles
Planning your move to City of Angels? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Los Angeles.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Echo Park
- Los Feliz
- Playa Del Rey
- Silver Lake
- Westwood
Best neighborhoods for families
- Brentwood
- Eagle Rock
- Mar Vista
- Playa Vista
- Studio City
Things to do in Los Angeles
After settling into your new California home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Los Angeles has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Los Angeles features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Getty Center, Griffith Observatory, Petersen Automotive Museum, and Battleship USS Iowa Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon Park, Lake Hollywood Park, and Echo Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Los Angeles Clippers (NBA)Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)Los Angeles FC (MLS)Los Angeles Kings (NHL)Los Angeles Lakers (NBA)Los Angeles Rams (NFL)Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Philadelphia to Los Angeles?
Planning your move from Philadelphia to Los Angeles? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Philadelphia.
When is the cheapest time to move from Philadelphia to Los Angeles?
Because most people are moving from Philadelphia to Los Angeles in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Philadelphia to Los Angeles take?
The 2,710-mile journey from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, , typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Philadelphia offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Los Angeles.
Are there special savings available from movers in Philadelphia?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 1 have discounts for military personnel. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Philadelphia?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Philadelphia, 53 movers can manage piano relocations. 41 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Pennsylvania has 77 piano movers and 55 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Philadelphia moving services
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