Top-rated movers to make your San Diego to Philadelphia move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in San Diego that offers long-distance services to Philadelphia can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 29 top local movers in San Diego 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 San Diego to Philadelphia.
- Republic Moving & Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
- Stella Moving & Delivery: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Grizzly Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Dominant Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- We Like To Move It Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 0190491
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 3369820
Alternate Names: Lovejoy’s Family Moving , Republic Relocation Services
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0191958
Years in Business: 6
DOT #: 3299407
Alternate Names: Stella Moving & Delivery , The Remarkable Movers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOD certified
Company Info
State license #: 0191376
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2642040
Alternate Names: Grizzly Movers LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 191165
Years in Business: 11
DOT #: 2718191
Alternate Names: Velorom LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0191446
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2843171
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from San Diego to Philadelphia?
In California, moving services typically cost around $128 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 | $1,237 – $5,294 | $1,348 – $3,424 | $1,473 – $2,800 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,844 – $7,702 | $2,489 – $5,240 | $1,517 – $3,503 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,800 – $12,050 | $3,464 – $6,865 | $1,937 – $4,257 |
Cost to hire movers from San Diego to Philadelphia
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Philadelphia from San Diego, you can expect prices to land between $1,237 and $5,294. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $3,844 to $7,702 for the trip from San Diego to Philadelphia. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $6,800 and $12,050.
Cost of moving containers from San Diego to Philadelphia
Moving containers from San Diego to Philadelphia will cost you $1,348 to $3,424 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,489 to $5,240. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,464 to $6,865. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from San Diego to Philadelphia
Renting a moving truck from San Diego to Philadelphia typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $1,473 and $2,800 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,517 to $3,503. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,937 to $4,257.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your San Diego to Philadelphia move
The cost of San Diego movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,781 for a one-bedroom, or up to $11,269 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in San Diego.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,473 to $3,957, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from San Diego to Philadelphia
Many movers find Philadelphia easier on the wallet than San Diego – roughly 24% less for singles and 20% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,541 for one person in Philadelphia versus $3,346 in San Diego. For a family of four, it’s $6,190 compared with $7,719.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| San Diego | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,704 | $1,791 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,914 | $3,116 |
| Average home value | $1,003,444 | $216,914 |
| Average income (per capita) | $72,963 | $70,746 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,346 | $2,541 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,719 | $6,190 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.6% | 10.6% |
| Sales tax | 7.75% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 3.07% |
- When relocating from San Diego to Philadelphia, expect to find rent about 41% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 78% more affordable in Philadelphia compared to San Diego.
- In terms of average income, Philadelphia and San Diego are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Philadelphia, as the cost of living for a single person is 24% lower compared to San Diego.
- 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 20% less than what it costs in San Diego.
- Philadelphia shows an unemployment rate that exceeds San Diego by around 61%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes hold steady between Philadelphia and San Diego (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
- 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 San Diego and Philadelphia:
| Living Expense | San Diego | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $277.55 | $269.29 |
| Cell phone plan | $66.79 | $61.40 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.26 | $4.30 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.50 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $21.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $65.68 | $48.67 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Diego than in Philadelphia.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in San Diego than in Philadelphia.
- Eggs cost more in San Diego than in Philadelphia.
- Bread is more expensive in San Diego than in Philadelphia.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in San Diego than in Philadelphia.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Diego than in Philadelphia.
- Gym memberships cost more in San Diego than in Philadelphia.
How life is different in San Diego vs. Philadelphia
| San Diego | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,386,932 | 1,603,797 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 9 |
| Walkability score | 53 | 75 |
| Bike friendliness score | 43 | 67 |
| Crime index | 39.83 | 66.09 |
| Safety index | 60.17 | 33.91 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Philadelphia’s population is about 16% greater than San Diego.
- Philadelphia’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than San Diego’s score of 6.
- Philadelphia is more walkable than San Diego with a score of 75 out of 100 vs San Diego’s 53 out of 100.
- With a score of 67 out of 100, Philadelphia is more bike-friendly than San Diego, which has a score of 43 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 San Diego with a score of 66.09 compared to San Diego’s 39.83. This means that Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Diego neighborhoods are safer than 39.83%.
- Philadelphia is considered to be less safe than San Diego with a score of 33.91 vs San Diego’s 60.17.
- Air quality in Philadelphia is Good, and in San Diego it’s Moderate.
Other things to consider for your San Diego 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 San Diego to Philadelphia?
Planning your move from San Diego to Philadelphia? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in San Diego.
When is the cheapest time to move from San Diego to Philadelphia?
Because most people are moving from San Diego 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 San Diego to Philadelphia take?
The 2,692-mile journey from San Diego, CA to Philadelphia, , typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in San Diego 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 San Diego?
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.
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 San Diego?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In San Diego, 21 movers can manage piano relocations. 16 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 297 piano movers and 227 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.
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