Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,359) Cost to Move From San Francisco, CA to Philadelphia, PA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 2,874 miles from San Francisco to Philadelphia, expect to pay between $1,774 and $8,464. The journey should take about seven–21 days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from San Francisco to Philadelphia

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from San Francisco to Philadelphia

For a stress-free interstate move from San Francisco to Philadelphia, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 71 interstate moving companies in San Francisco, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Philadelphia.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from San Francisco to Philadelphia

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,874-mile move from San Francisco to Philadelphia using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,661 – $5,809
  • Moving Container $1,861 – $3,551
  • Rental Truck $1,528 – $2,995
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,055 – $8,464
  • Moving Container $2,639 – $5,048
  • Rental Truck $1,774 – $3,638
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $7,328 – $12,741
  • Moving Container $3,609 – $7,105
  • Rental Truck $2,093 – $4,421
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Mayflower Transit
Cherryland, CA Ridley, PA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 17, 2025
North American Van Lines
Milpitas, CA Lower Gwynedd, PA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 17, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Danville, CA Richlandtown, PA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Fremont, CA Warminster, PA
Studio apartment
Oct 05, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Richmond, CA Cheyney University, PA
Studio apartment
Sep 20, 2025
Roadway Moving
Hillsborough, CA West Whiteland, PA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 10, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Union City, CA Malvern, PA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 08, 2025
Safeway Moving
Emeryville, CA Ivyland, PA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 03, 2025
PODS
Alhambra Valley, CA Arcadia University, PA
Studio apartment
Sep 03, 2025
American Van Lines
Pleasanton, CA Broomall, PA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 30, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Philadelphia, PA to San Francisco, CA guide.

Top-rated local movers that handle San Francisco to Philadelphia moves

When planning a move from San Francisco to Philadelphia, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 91 local movers in San Francisco who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from San Francisco to Philadelphia.

  1. Pure Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Good Green Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
97.6% of all reviews were positive
1.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
A standout among moving companies, Pure Moving Company consistently earns praise for efficiency, professionalism, and attention to detail. Input from 1,008 customers shows 97.6% positive feedback, making it one of the highest-rated moving services in the Bay Area. Clients highlight the team’s quick, organized approach and their careful handling of belongings, often noting that nothing was damaged and furniture was wrapped thoroughly. Customers also appreciate clear communication before and during moves, as well as polite staff and easy booking. Some mention affordable, transparent rates compared to local competitors. Feedback reveals a small number of negative experiences, mainly focused on item damage, slow arrival, or inexperienced staff, although management often responds and resolves complaints promptly. Compared to other moving services, Pure Moving stands out for combining efficient work with care and professional service. Most report smooth, stress-free moves, with only rare setbacks. For those seeking a reliable Bay Area mover, Pure Moving Company sets a benchmark for quality.
Get a Quote (415) 919-6497

Company Info

State license #: 0191103

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3207734

Alternate Names: Pure Moving & Storage, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.6% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never been this stress-free, according to feedback from 130 customers, and nearly 95% reflect positive experiences with Gentle Giant Moving Company. Clients highlight fast-moving teams, consistently polite and friendly staff, careful treatment of belongings, and swift, organized processes. Many describe their crews as efficient, hardworking, and genuinely committed to making moves smooth. Attention to detail and respectful communication set Gentle Giant apart from most competitors. Some mention higher costs than expected and a handful report frustration with unclear estimates or communication lapses. A few note setbacks like rude customer service or lack of follow-up. Still, the overwhelming majority find Gentle Giant’s efficiency, professionalism, and care exceptional compared to other moving firms.
Get a Quote (415) 544-7000

Company Info

State license #: 0167668

Years in Business: 44

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Great Giant Moving Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.9% of all reviews were positive
11.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy is how customers describe Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc., with 86.9% of the 634 feedback entries rating their services positively. Reviewers consistently mention efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams. The booking process is straightforward and communication is strong, making moves feel stress-free compared to larger companies. Many highlight how quickly items are moved and the competitive pricing, with exceptional care towards fragile and valuable belongings. In contrast, 11.7% report issues, mainly with damaged items, late arrivals, or communication lapses during scheduling and claims. While the company receives high praise for their courteous movers and fast work, cases of lost or broken property and delayed deliveries set them apart from top-tier providers who resolve complaints faster and provide more consistent updates. Neutral input often cites both efficient execution and minor damages. Eagle stands out for its efficiency and customer-focused approach but should address recurring concerns with item handling and reliability during high-stress moves.
Get a Quote (415) 404-7400

Company Info

State license #: 0190673

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 3670248

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
6.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving dreams made easier: NorthStar Moving Company impresses with consistent high marks from more than 1,100 customer reviews, and more than 91% of that input is positive. Feedback repeatedly praises NorthStar’s efficient and friendly movers, careful handling of belongings, and prompt, open communication. Customers highlight quick moving processes, responsible care for fragile items, and smooth, stress-free experiences from booking to delivery. The price is regularly described as reasonable, and transparent quotes are common. When compared to other companies, NorthStar stands out for its professionalism and reliability. Some customers report issues such as damage to furniture, delayed arrival or delivery, or difficulties reaching customer service for status updates or claims. The most common negative feedback involves item damage, poor communication during or after moves, and occasional scheduling errors. While these issues are in the minority, prospective clients may want to clarify all details and ask specific questions about protection policies. NorthStar Moving consistently maintains better customer satisfaction rates than most competitors, making it a leading choice for efficient, careful, and responsive moving services.
Get a Quote (415) 635-3844

Company Info

State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 30

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/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.6% of all reviews were positive
10.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Good Green Moving earns high marks for professionalism and efficiency, with nearly 89% of 341 customer feedback entries praising their staff’s courtesy, clear communication, and careful handling of belongings. Customers frequently mention efficient service, stress-free moves, and quick, reliable crews—traits that set the company apart from many others in the industry. The reusable eco-friendly bins and transparent pricing also are widely appreciated. Negative feedback, making up about 11%, primarily centers on damaged items, poor follow-up from management, and late arrivals or missed time commitments. Some customers report unresolved complaints or lost belongings, especially with storage services. Compared to typical movers, Good Green Moving stands out for its positive staff interactions and above-average customer satisfaction, though a few reports of communication lapses and damaged property remind potential clients to clarify expectations for timing and claims handling.
Get a Quote (855) 613-4663

Company Info

State license #: 0191035

Pricing: $70/hr

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2604063

Alternate Names: Green Move, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from San Francisco to Philadelphia?

Movers in California charge $128 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 $1,359 – $5,786 $1,361 – $3,569 $1,638 – $2,874
2 – 3 bedrooms $4,055 – $8,464 $2,639 – $5,048 $1,774 – $3,638
4+ bedrooms $7,328 – $12,741 $3,609 – $7,105 $2,093 – $4,421
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 2,874-mile relocation from San Francisco to Philadelphia, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from San Francisco to Philadelphia

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from San Francisco to Philadelphia, you can expect to spend between $1,359 and $5,786. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $4,055 to $8,464 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from San Francisco to Philadelphia typically runs between $7,328 and $12,741.

Cost of moving containers from San Francisco to Philadelphia

When moving from San Francisco to Philadelphia, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,361 and $3,569. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,639 to $5,048. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,609 up to $7,105. 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 San Francisco to Philadelphia

Renting a moving truck in San Francisco is usually your cheapest option to get to Philadelphia. 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 $1,638 and $2,874. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,774 and $3,638. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $2,093 and $4,421.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from San Francisco to Philadelphia

The cost of San Francisco movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,686, but larger homes can run up to $11,320.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in San Francisco.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($1,638–$4,193) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from San Francisco to Philadelphia

Many movers find Philadelphia easier on the wallet than San Francisco – roughly 33% less for singles and 29% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,541 for one person in Philadelphia versus $3,781 in San Francisco. For a family of four, it’s $6,190 compared with $8,717.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

San Francisco Philadelphia
Average 1 BR rent $3,259 $1,791
Average 3 BR rent $5,475 $3,116
Average home value $1,241,003 $216,914
Average income (per capita) $136,689 $70,746
Cost of living (single) $3,781 $2,541
Cost of living (family of four) $8,717 $6,190
Unemployment rate 5.4% 10.6%
Sales tax 8.63% 8.0%
State income tax 13.3% 3.07%
  • Experience a potentially easier financial adjustment with rent being about 48% lower in Philadelphia than in San Francisco, giving you more disposable income monthly.
  • Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 83% lower in Philadelphia than in San Francisco.
  • It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 48% less in Philadelphia than in San Francisco.
  • Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in Philadelphia, where the cost of living for a single person is 33% less than in San Francisco.
  • Moving to Philadelphia could be an economically beneficial choice, reducing your family’s regular costs such as groceries, transport, and utilities. The cost of living for a family is 29% less than in San Francisco.
  • The unemployment rate in Philadelphia is 96% higher compared to San Francisco, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
  • Sales taxes are 7% lower in Philadelphia than in San Francisco. If you have a larger family or higher consumption habits, the lower sales tax in Philadelphia can reduce your overall living expenses.
  • Income taxes are 77% lower in Pennsylvania compared to California. With these reduced income tax rates, your paycheck will reflect more of your earnings, allowing you greater freedom in managing your finances.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing San Francisco with Philadelphia:

Living Expense San Francisco Philadelphia
Basic utilities $229.35 $269.29
Cell phone plan $62.91 $61.40
Dozen eggs $5.91 $4.30
Loaf of bread $5.06 $4.15
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $20.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $125.00 $90.00
Gym membership $99.96 $48.67
  • Basic utilities cost less in San Francisco than in Philadelphia, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in San Francisco than in Philadelphia.
  • Eggs cost more in San Francisco than in Philadelphia.
  • Bread is more expensive in San Francisco than in Philadelphia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in San Francisco than in Philadelphia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Francisco than in Philadelphia.
  • Gym memberships cost more in San Francisco than in Philadelphia.

How life is different in San Francisco vs. Philadelphia

San Francisco Philadelphia
Population 808,988 1,603,797
Transportation score 10 9
Walkability score 99 75
Bike friendliness score 99 67
Crime index 61.41 66.09
Safety index 38.59 33.91
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Philadelphia’s population is about 98% greater than San Francisco.
  • Philadelphia’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is lower than San Francisco’s score of 10.
  • Philadelphia is less walkable than San Francisco with a score of 75 out of 100 vs San Francisco’s 99 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 San Francisco, which has a score of 99.
  • Philadelphia’s crime rate is higher than San Francisco with a score of 66.09 compared to San Francisco’s 61.41. This means that Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and San Francisco neighborhoods are safer than 61.41%.
  • Philadelphia is considered to be less safe than San Francisco with a score of 33.91 vs San Francisco’s 38.59.
  • Air quality in Philadelphia is Good, and in San Francisco it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your San Francisco to Philadelphia move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Pennsylvania moving company’s license by visiting 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: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Philadelphia smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Philadelphia

Now that you’ve chosen Philly as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Philadelphia to check out.

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 getting comfortable in your new Pennsylvania home, it’s time to see what Philadelphia is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Philadelphia offers cultural landmarks like 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 — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during 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 Francisco to Philadelphia?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from San Francisco to Philadelphia are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in San Francisco are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from San Francisco to Philadelphia?

Because spring and fall moves from San Francisco 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 San Francisco to Philadelphia take?

A move of 2,874 miles from San Francisco, CA to Philadelphia, generally takes seven to 21 days. Movers in San Francisco sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Philadelphia is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which discounts can you find from movers in San Francisco?

Plenty of moving companies offer ways to help you save, from seasonal promotions to ongoing deals. In San Francisco, 2 movers provide AAA member discounts.

Discount types, amounts, and availability can differ, so it’s worth confirming the details with each mover before you book.

Which movers in San Francisco offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 72 movers in San Francisco have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 64 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across CA, there are 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle