($1,168) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA

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Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Philadelphia

When planning a move to Philadelphia from Chicago, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,168 and $3,647. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,213 and $5,275 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,656 to $7,809.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Philadelphia

When you’re heading from Chicago to Philadelphia, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $722 and $1,750. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,367 and $2,527. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,779 to $3,531. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Illinois easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Philadelphia

A moving rental truck from Chicago to Philadelphia is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $553 to $1,010. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $568 to $1,211, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Chicago to Philadelphia costs around $712 to $1,512.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

• Rent is about 17% less expensive in Philadelphia than in Chicago, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
• Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 27% cheaper in Philadelphia than in Chicago.
• There’s good news: the average income differences between Philadelphia and Chicago are within a modest 5%, minimizing financial adjustments.
• Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Philadelphia. The cost of living for a single person there is 30% below that of Chicago.
• A move to Philadelphia can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 33% lower compared to Chicago.
• Philadelphia has a higher unemployment rate than Chicago by about 18%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
• Sales taxes are 22% cheaper in Philadelphia compared to Chicago. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
• Income taxes are 38% less in Pennsylvania compared to Illinois, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

• Philadelphia’s population is about 42% less than Chicago.
• Philadelphia’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Chicago, making them very similar.
• Philadelphia and Chicago are similarly walkable.
• Philadelphia has a bike-friendliness score of 67 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
• Philadelphia’s crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 66.09 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Philadelphia and Chicago have a similar safety level, with scores of 33.91 and 33.87.
• Air quality in Philadelphia is Good, and in Chicago it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Costs across Chicago and Philadelphia are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
• Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
• 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. Ensure the company you choose is 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: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Pennsylvania, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
• Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Philadelphia. Get started here.
• Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

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

With your move to Pennsylvania complete, you can dive right into experiencing Philadelphia. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

• Arts and culture: Philadelphia is home to museums and cultural arts centers 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 spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
• Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)Philadelphia Eagles (NFL)Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)Philadelphia Union (MLS) game.