Los Angeles, CA to Philadelphia, PA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Los Angeles to Philadelphia typically costs $4,500–$8,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,709 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Los Angeles to Philadelphia
Moving from Los Angeles, CA to Philadelphia, PA typically costs $4,500–$8,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,709-mile move from Los Angeles 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 $9,734 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $3,834 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $5,504 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 15, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 12, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 31, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 27, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 10, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 06, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 01, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 26, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 12, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 07, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Los Angeles to Philadelphia move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $3,000 for a one-bedroom, or up to $13,500 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Los Angeles.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,800 to $4,800, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA guide.
Best Los Angeles to Philadelphia movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Los Angeles to Philadelphia
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Los Angeles to Philadelphia much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
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 CA→PA movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 372 California movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Los Angeles to Philadelphia
Many movers find Philadelphia easier on the wallet than Los Angeles - roughly 56% less for singles and 51% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,541 for one person in Philadelphia versus $5,833 in Los Angeles. For a family of four, it's $6,190 compared with $12,720.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Los Angeles | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,603 | $1,791 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,443 | $3,116 |
| Average home value | $2,368,088 | $216,914 |
| Average income (per capita) | $74,993 | $70,746 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,833 | $2,541 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $12,720 | $6,190 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 10.6% |
| Sales tax | 9.5% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 3.07% |
- When relocating from Los Angeles to Philadelphia, expect to find rent about 43% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 91% more affordable in Philadelphia compared to Los Angeles.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 6% lower in Philadelphia compared to Los Angeles.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Philadelphia, as the cost of living for a single person is 56% lower compared to Los Angeles.
- A move to Philadelphia can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 51% less than what it costs in Los Angeles.
- With Philadelphia and Los Angeles having similar unemployment rates, deviating by approximately 5%, job opportunities and market competitiveness remain consistent.
- Sales taxes are 16% less in Philadelphia relative to Los Angeles. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Pennsylvania are 77% below those in California. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Los Angeles and Philadelphia:
| Living Expense | Los Angeles | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $192.54 | $269.29 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.50 | $61.40 |
| Dozen eggs | $7.02 | $4.30 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.58 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $47.76 | $48.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Los Angeles than in Philadelphia, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Los Angeles than in Philadelphia.
- Eggs cost more in Los Angeles than in Philadelphia.
- Bread is more expensive in Los Angeles than in Philadelphia.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Los Angeles than in Philadelphia.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Los Angeles than in Philadelphia.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Los Angeles than in Philadelphia.
How life is different in Los Angeles vs. Philadelphia
| Los Angeles | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,820,914 | 1,603,797 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 69 | 75 |
| Bike friendliness score | 59 | 67 |
| Crime index | 53.81 | 66.09 |
| Safety index | 46.19 | 33.91 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Philadelphia's population is about 58% less than Los Angeles.
- Philadelphia's public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Los Angeles's score of 8.
- Philadelphia is more walkable than Los Angeles with a score of 75 out of 100 vs Los Angeles's 69 out of 100.
- With a score of 67 out of 100, Philadelphia is more bike-friendly than Los Angeles, which has a score of 59 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Philadelphia's crime rate is higher than Los Angeles with a score of 66.09 compared to Los Angeles's 53.81. This means that Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Los Angeles neighborhoods are safer than 53.81%.
- Philadelphia is considered to be less safe than Los Angeles with a score of 33.91 vs Los Angeles's 46.19.
- Air quality in Philadelphia is Good, and in Los Angeles it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Los Angeles to Philadelphia 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: 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Pennsylvania’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Pennsylvania 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 Philadelphia. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Philadelphia
Planning your move to Philly? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home 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
After settling into your new Pennsylvania home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Philadelphia has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Philadelphia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — 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 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 Los Angeles to Philadelphia?
Planning your move from Los Angeles to Philadelphia? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Los Angeles.
When is the cheapest time to move from Los Angeles to Philadelphia?
Because most people are moving from Los Angeles to Philadelphia 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 Los Angeles to Philadelphia take?
The 2,709-mile journey from Los Angeles, CA to Philadelphia, PA, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Los Angeles offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Philadelphia.
Are there special savings available from movers in Los Angeles?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 2 have discounts for military personnel. 4 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 Los Angeles?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Los Angeles, 83 movers can manage piano relocations. 72 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 298 piano movers and 229 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
