Quick answer: For a 2,709-mile move from Los Angeles to Philadelphia, expect to spend around $1,975–$9,959 and seven to 21 days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Philadelphia to Los Angeles guide.

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Recommended by The New York Times
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Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Los Angeles to Philadelphia

Choosing a long-distance mover for your move from Los Angeles to Philadelphia can be tough. With so many options, it's hard to know which companies you can actually trust.

Skip the hassle of endless research — we've narrowed down the top choices for you. We picked these movers based on real reviews, competitive pricing, and the variety of services they offer.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your CA to PA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 277 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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.

Find trusted moving companies for your Los Angeles to Philadelphia journey

Organizing a move from Los Angeles to Philadelphia can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. The choices are vast, but which ones stand out?

We've done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in Los Angeles known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Los Angeles to Philadelphia.

  1. Seka Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  2. Rigo's Moving Company Inc: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Move Central Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Prodigy Moving & Storage, LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/sekamoving, https://twitter.com/SekaMoving/
88% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Seka Moving receives high praise for delivering professional, careful, and efficient moves, according to 88% of analyzed feedback. Customers frequently mention polite staff, careful handling of belongings, quick and smooth processes, and genuinely helpful crew members. Many note that moves finished ahead of schedule, and damage-free delivery is a strong trend.
Clients appreciate Seka's responsive communication and flexibility, making relocation much easier and less stressful compared to other movers. While most feedback highlights reliable performance, some negative input mentions incidents of damaged items, unsatisfactory complaint handling, and at times, unprofessional behavior. These issues contrast sharply with the positive experiences, but are relatively rare—only 12% of reviews. Seka stands out as a leading choice in the moving industry for professionalism and diligence, though customers facing problems report dissatisfaction with how disputes are resolved.
Show more
Get a Quote (323) 483-4288

Company Info

State license #: 0192497

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3014539

Alternate Names: Seka Moving Corporation


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
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/RigosMovingAndStorage/,
80% of all reviews were positive
20% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move without the headache—most feedback for Rigo's Moving Company highlights fast, polite service, and movers who treat customers’ belongings with respect. Out of 522 reviews, almost 80% of clients offered positive input, more than is typical for moving companies. People value how efficiently teams load and unload, the professionalism of movers, and their careful approach to furniture and fragile items.
Staff routinely communicate well and work quickly to reduce stress during the move. Yet, some customers call out issues, especially regarding damages to furniture or property, unexpected fees, and crews arriving late. A few also mention being charged for unworked hours. Compared to other movers, Rigo's stands out for its reliability and strong work ethic, but should improve on punctuality and handling claims to give customers peace of mind. Most who used Rigo's would recommend the service and use it again, but caution others to clarify policies and extra charges before hiring.
Show more
Get a Quote (323) 519-2845

Company Info

State license #: 0191663

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3075110


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/NorthStarMoving/, https://twitter.com/NorthStarMoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers call NorthStar Moving Company a standout in the moving industry, praising efficiency, careful handling, professionalism, quick process, and communication. Out of 1,215 reviews, 92% gave positive input. Customers frequently thank staff for protecting their belongings, arriving promptly, and making stressful transitions much easier.
Rates are seen as competitive or a good value, especially compared to other movers who charge more or damage items. Communication with office staff and movers is often highlighted as a reassurance during stressful moves, with efficient booking and helpful support being noted advantages. Negative feedback appears in only 6% of responses, with the biggest concerns being damaged items, higher-than-expected charges, and some delayed arrivals or deliveries. A few customers experienced discrepancies between estimates and final pricing, or had items lost or mishandled. Others mentioned follow-up to resolve issues but found the claims process or communication for resolution challenging. NorthStar earns its reputation by consistently going above and beyond for most customers, solving moving day obstacles, and delivering quick, safe service at fair prices. Compared to many moving operations, NorthStar offers greater reliability, more careful crews, and much better results in both local and long-distance jobs. Customers said they’d continue to choose NorthStar, while advising others to keep an eye on pricing details and final inventory. The overwhelmingly positive feedback positions this company as a top choice in professional moving services.
Show more
Get a Quote (213) 622-7767

Company Info

State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 1836576


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064228921165,
67% of all reviews were positive
28% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
A reputation built on hustle, but not without headaches—Move Central Moving & Storage analyzed 1,279 reviews with 67% praising their services. People call out efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, quick-moving crews, and reliable communication as top strengths. Customers often highlight how movers protect fragile items and show respect throughout the process.
Yet, difficult stories are all too common and focus on high final costs, surprise charges, and damage to belongings. Negative feedback consistently reports being billed far over initial quotes, with some mentioning extra fees that weren’t clear at booking. Damage during moves and lackluster resolution of claims are also hot topics. While the company stands out for working quickly and having courteous staff, the challenges around price accuracy and risk of breakage make the experience less predictable compared to competitors. Most choose them for their fast, friendly approach, but buyers should watch for cost details and pay attention to documentation before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (323) 827-8950

Company Info

State license #: 0191020

Years in Business: 13

DOT #: 2365576

Alternate Names: Move Central Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/prodigymove/, https://twitter.com/_prodigymoving_
95% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
When moving day arrives, most customers describe Prodigy Moving & Storage as a well-oiled, professional operation. Out of 1,834 customer feedback entries, over 95% reported a positive experience. Clients consistently praise the teams for speed, careful handling, courteous staff, and clear communication.
Crews arrive on time, work quickly, and show particular attention to protecting furniture and property. Customers repeatedly mention helpful coordination, efficient processes, and staff who make a notoriously stressful task simple and manageable. Prodigy’s service quality and consistency put it ahead of most moving companies in the region. Some negative feedback points to extra charges, lost or damaged items, and—less often—problems with communication or claims resolution. The most common complaints are surprise fees or rare mishandling of possessions. Compared to the industry, Prodigy stands out for its exceptional reliability, but as with any moving company, occasional mistakes can happen and a few cases reported difficulty resolving those. For those seeking an efficient, attentive, and professional move, Prodigy Moving & Storage is widely trusted and repeatedly recommended by both first-time and repeat customers.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 991-6683

Company Info

State license #: 191106

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 3983945


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Los Angeles to Philadelphia?

Los Angeles movers charge $100 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,714 - $7,062 $1,767 - $4,402 $1,862 - $3,461
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,692 - $9,959 $3,167 - $6,479 $1,975 - $4,295
4+ bedrooms $9,099 - $14,369 $4,154 - $8,479 $2,599 - $5,431
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,709 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from California to Pennsylvania

If you're packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from California to Pennsylvania, you can expect prices to land between $1,714 and $7,062. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $4,692 to $9,959 for the trip from CA to PA. If you're moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you're likely looking at a price tag between $9,099 and $14,369.

Cost of moving containers from California to Pennsylvania

Moving from California to Pennsylvania? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $1,767 and $4,402. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $3,167 to $6,479. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $4,154 up to $8,479. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from California to Pennsylvania

Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option. Just keep in mind that you'll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you're moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,862 and $3,461. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,975 and $4,295. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,599 and $5,431.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that influence moving costs from Los Angeles to Philadelphiatoggle

The cost of Los Angeles movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Los Angeles to Philadelphia might cost as little as $1,714, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $13,862.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Los Angeles, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $1,862 to $4,953 Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Los Angeles to Philadelphia

Moving from Los Angeles to Philadelphia means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Los Angeles than in Philadelphia, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Los Angeles compares to Philadelphia so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Los Angeles Philadelphia
Average rent cost $2,960 $1,695
Average home value $2,368,088 $216,914
Average income (per capita) $74,993 $70,746
Cost of living (single person) $3,922 $2,541
Cost of living (family of 4) $9,213 $6,190
Unemployment rate 10.6% 10.6%
Sales tax 9.5% 8.0%
State income tax 13.3% 3.07%
  • Rent prices in Philadelphia are 43% lower than in Los Angeles, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Philadelphia.
    Home prices in Philadelphia are 90.8% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • Income in Philadelphia is 5.7% lower than in Los Angeles, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Philadelphia — including Amtak, Comcast, and COFCO — may pay more.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Philadelphia. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 35.2% lower than in 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 32.8% less than what it costs in Los Angeles.
  • The unemployment rate in Philadelphia and Los Angeles.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Philadelphia, since the city's sales taxes in Philadelphia are 15.79% lower than in Los Angeles.
  • One perk of moving to Philadelphia is paying less in state income taxes, which are 76.92% lower than in Los Angeles.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,943.65 in Philadelphia to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Los Angeles.

How life is different in Los Angeles vs. Philadelphia

Philadelphia Los Angeles
Population 1,603,797 3,820,914
AllTransit Transportation Performance 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
  • Philadelphia might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 58% less than Los Angeles.
  • Philadelphia offers better access to buses and trains than Los Angeles, based on public transportation ratings. Philadelphia has a transit score of 9 out of 10 compared to 8 in Los Angeles. The higher the score, the more public transportation pickup and dropoff locations a city provides.
  • Living in Philadelphia means you'll likely be within closer walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, and entertainment than you are in Los Angeles. Philadelphia is considered more walkable than Los Angeles, with a score of 75 out of 100 versus 69 out of 100 in Los Angeles. A city's walkability score indicates how pedestrian-friendly it is in terms of proximity of neighborhoods to amenities.
  • If cycling is your thing, Philadelphia is considered more bike-friendly than Los Angeles in terms of designated lanes and connectivity and how many residents opt to commute on two wheels rather than by car. Philadelphia has a bike-friendliness score of 67 out of 100, while Los Angeles is rated as 59 out of 100.
  • The crime rate in Philadelphia is higher than in Los Angeles, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 66.09 in Philadelphia, it is 53.81 in Los Angeles. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a city's crime levels.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in Philadelphia. With a crime index of 33.91, Philadelphia ranks lower in overall safety than Los Angeles, whose index is 46.19. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • You can breathe easy knowing that Philadelphia has better air quality than in Los Angeles. Philadelphia has Good air quality, compared to moderate in Los Angeles. Ratings of good to moderate mean very low risk of health concerns, although people with conditions like asthma or allergies could be affected. Beyond the moderate rating, health concerns increase for some or all residents.

Other things to consider for your Los Angeles vs. Philadelphia move

  • Weather: Philadelphia has hot and muggy summers and the fall and spring are generally mild, and winter is moderately cold. If you are planning a summer move make sure to check the weather to avoid overall humid and hot days,
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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: To confirm a moving company's license in Pennsylvania, visit the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While Pennsylvania doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • 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: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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

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)
  • Roxborough

Things to do in Philadelphia

Once you're settled into your new home in Pennsylvania, it's time to get out and discover what Philadelphia has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Philadelphia include museums and art centers like the Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes, Museum of the American Revolution, and The Franklin Institute.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Wissahickon Valley Park, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Fairmount Park, and Love Park — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), Philadelphia Flyers (NHL), or Philadelphia Phillies (MLB) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Los Angeles to Philadelphia?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Los Angeles to Philadelphia You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Los Angeles.

When is the cheapest time to move from Los Angeles to Philadelphia?

Because spring and fall moves from Los Angeles to Philadelphia are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you're looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

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.

Helpful moving resources