Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($549) Cost to Move From Washington DC, MD to Philadelphia, PA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: For a 139 mile move from Washington DC to Philadelphia, costs typically range from $148 to $3,141. Plan for the travel time to be around one–two days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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 Washington DC 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 Washington DC to Philadelphia

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Washington DC to Philadelphia, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 73 interstate moving companies located in Washington DC, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Philadelphia seamless and enjoyable.

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 Washington DC to Philadelphia

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 139-mile move from Washington DC to Philadelphia using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $647 – $2,612
  • Moving Container $672 – $1,193
  • Rental Truck $137 – $218
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,088 – $3,141
  • Moving Container $906 – $1,593
  • Rental Truck $148 – $265
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,469 – $3,895
  • Moving Container $1,188 – $2,049
  • Rental Truck $179 – $294
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.
1-800-Pack-Rat
Seat Pleasant, MD Ambler, PA
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 23, 2025
BLVD Moving
Chevy Chase Section Five, MD Warwick, PA
2 Bedrooms
Nov 22, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Germantown, MD Springfield, PA
5+ Bedrooms
Nov 18, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Colmar Manor, MD Morrisville, PA
4 Bedrooms
Nov 11, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Port Tobacco, MD Broomall, PA
Studio apartment
Oct 11, 2025
PODS
Riverdale Park, MD Prospect Park, PA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 09, 2025
Roadway Moving
Oxon Hill, MD Westtown, PA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 09, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Jessup, MD Bechtelsville, PA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
United Van Lines
Odenton, MD Penndel, PA
Studio apartment
Sep 03, 2025
American Van Lines
Bensville, MD Abington, PA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Philadelphia, PA to Washington DC, MD guide.

The best local movers for Washington DC to Philadelphia moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Washington DC that also handles long-distance moves to Philadelphia. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 82 local movers in Washington DC who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Washington DC to Philadelphia.

  1. Olympia Moving & Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. Bookstore Movers, LLC: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. My Pro Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. Artisan Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. 495 Movers, Inc: 4.7 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
83.8% of all reviews were positive
14.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews dominate Olympia Moving & Storage’s customer feedback, with over 83% of 383 reviews rating the company positively. Customers consistently praise their efficient service, attentive staff, careful handling of possessions, strong communication, and the speed of their moving process. Olympia stands out for delivering a low-stress experience, seamless coordination, and trustworthy teams, which is especially noteworthy compared to many competitors in the moving industry. On the downside, a portion of clients report significant issues: the most common complaints involve damaged or lost items, cost overruns from inaccurate estimates, and missing possessions. Several negative comments highlight struggles with costly and frustrating claims processes, as well as challenges in resolving high-value property damage or loss after storage. Neutral feedback typically mentions minor mishaps, miscommunications, or additional fees, yet still acknowledges courteous service and competence from the moving crews. Olympia typically delivers an efficient, professional moving experience but, like most national movers, may fall short when it comes to high-value item care or providing exact cost certainty for larger, complex moves.
Get a Quote (703) 566-4391

Company Info

State license #: 70719

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 70719

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
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
96.1% of all reviews were positive
3.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never sounded easier—Bookstore Movers, LLC receives rave feedback from 96% of customers out of 230 reviews. Customers consistently praise efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, and clear communication. Most mention speedy, smooth moves and crews who protect property and approach each job with courtesy. Scheduling is simple and estimates align closely with costs, setting this company apart from less reliable movers. Only a few customers report problems: a small portion cite damaged items, rushed jobs, or unexpected extra charges. One neutral review points to delays, missing crew members, and difficult management contact during the move. Compared to most moving companies, Bookstore Movers earns superior marks for consistent reliability, making them a top choice for stress-free relocations.
Get a Quote (202) 570-4697

Company Info

State license #: 2005212

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 2005212

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.2% of all reviews were positive
5.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave reviews spotlight My Pro Movers’ reputation for speed, careful handling, and professionalism. Out of 353 pieces of customer input, 93% reflect positive experiences, with users frequently highlighting efficient crews, polite staff, and responsive helpers who protect belongings and make moving smoother than expected. Many describe high-quality service at a fair price, often outpacing competitors on speed, communication, and attention to detail. Negative input makes up just over 5% and flags issues with inaccurate estimates, higher-than-expected charges, and damaged items. Customers most often complained about large discrepancies between quoted and final costs, with some also noting occasional mishandling of property. Neutral feedback centers on incomplete follow-up and delays but acknowledges hard-working movers. The overall trend shows My Pro Movers exceeds the industry norm on efficiency and care, though clients should confirm pricing details to avoid surprises.
Get a Quote (703) 310-7333

Company Info

Years in Business: 7

DOT #: 3116640

Alternate Names: MyProMovers LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.8% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input points to Artisan Movers as a standout in the moving industry, with 259 reviews analyzed and nearly 94% offering positive input. Most feedback highlights a team respected for professionalism, careful handling, efficiency, effective communication, and quick moving processes—qualities consistently recognized in top-rated movers. Customers frequently note that their belongings arrive undamaged and praise the crew’s friendly, accommodating manner. On the downside, a small percentage report concerns like item damage, surprise charges, or slow responses from management. When compared with other companies, Artisan Movers receives higher marks for reliability, staff courtesy, and transparent communication, though there are isolated reports of property damage or issues with the billing process. These trends show a company excelling in service standards, with a few exceptions relating to damage and administrative follow-through.
Get a Quote (240) 570-8593

Company Info

State license #: 2957382

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 2957382

Alternate Names: Artisan Movers Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
83.7% of all reviews were positive
14.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with a well-organized team can transform a stressful day into a smooth experience. Across 410 reviews for 495 Movers, 83.7% of feedback is positive, reflecting results that outpace many competitors. Most customers found efficient service, careful handling, and friendly, professional movers who kept fragile belongings safe and finished jobs on (or ahead of) schedule. Many appreciated clear estimates, honest pricing, and responsive communication before and during the move. Free packing supplies and flexibility made preparation easier, and follow-up calls reassured customers their move details were covered. A much smaller portion of feedback reports dissatisfaction. Some customers cite damage to their items, unexpected charges not matching estimates, or lost belongings—especially for long-distance or storage moves. A few also mentioned that claims for lost or broken possessions were hard to resolve, and communication could suffer after the move. Negative experiences frequently came with higher costs or struggles reaching resolution, leaving affected customers frustrated. Most feedback highlights efficiency, a courteous team, attention to detail, and billing transparency. Problems with damage or unexpected fees, though rare, are more common than with industry leaders renowned for flawless claims handling and rigid cost guarantees. On balance, 495 Movers is rated better than most moving companies for local or regional moves, especially for customers seeking cost clarity and respectful crews.
Get a Quote (855) 243-1717

Company Info

State license #: 1893270

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 1893270

Services Offered

  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified

How much does it cost to move from Washington DC to Philadelphia?

The average hourly rate for movers in Maryland is $125. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $549 – $2,280 $477 – $1,074 $142 – $223
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,088 – $3,141 $906 – $1,593 $148 – $265
4+ bedrooms $1,469 – $3,895 $1,188 – $2,049 $179 – $294
*Approximate cost ranges for a 139-mile move from Washington DC to Philadelphia are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Washington DC to Philadelphia

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Washington DC to Philadelphia will cost between $549 and $2,280. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Washington DC to Washington DC will range from $1,088 to $3,141, and a large move from Washington DC to Philadelphia will cost from $1,469 to $3,895.

Cost of moving containers from Washington DC to Philadelphia

If you’re moving from Washington DC to Philadelphia, expect to pay between $477 and $1,074 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $906 up to $1,593. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,188 and $2,049. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Maryland.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Washington DC to Philadelphia

Renting a moving truck from Washington DC to Philadelphia is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $142 and $223. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $148 and $265. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $179 up to $294 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Washington DC to Philadelphia

The cost of Washington DC movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $765, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $3,732.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Washington DC, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($142–$269) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Washington DC to Philadelphia

Many movers find Philadelphia easier on the wallet than Washington DC – roughly 36% less for singles and 44% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,541 for one person in Philadelphia versus $3,963 in Washington DC. For a family of four, it’s $6,190 compared with $11,093.

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

Washington DC Philadelphia
Average 1 BR rent $2,568 $1,791
Average 3 BR rent $5,417 $3,116
Average home value $594,337 $216,914
Average income (per capita) $101,722 $70,746
Cost of living (single) $3,963 $2,541
Cost of living (family of four) $11,093 $6,190
Unemployment rate 7.0% 10.6%
Sales tax 6.0% 8.0%
State income tax 5.75% 3.07%
  • If you’re heading to Philadelphia from Washington DC, you’ll find that rent is roughly 29% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
  • Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 64% less in Philadelphia than in Washington DC.
  • Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 30% lower in Philadelphia compared to Washington DC.
  • 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 36% lower than in Washington DC.
  • Choosing to move to Philadelphia can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 44% less than in Washington DC.
  • In Philadelphia, the unemployment rate is approximately 51% higher than in Washington DC, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes rise by 33% in Philadelphia over Washington DC, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 47% less in Pennsylvania than in Maryland. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Washington DC and Philadelphia:

Living Expense Washington DC Philadelphia
Basic utilities $191.62 $269.29
Cell phone plan $65.80 $61.40
Dozen eggs $4.67 $4.30
Loaf of bread $4.43 $4.15
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $20.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $120.00 $90.00
Gym membership $103.76 $48.67
  • Basic utilities cost less in Washington DC than in Philadelphia, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Washington DC than in Philadelphia.
  • Eggs cost more in Washington DC than in Philadelphia.
  • Bread is more expensive in Washington DC than in Philadelphia.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Washington DC than in Philadelphia.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Washington DC than in Philadelphia.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Philadelphia.

How life is different in Washington DC vs. Philadelphia

Washington DC Philadelphia
Population 672,079 1,603,797
Transportation score 9 9
Walkability score 77 75
Bike friendliness score 70 67
Crime index 60.37 66.09
Safety index 39.63 33.91
Air quality Good Good
  • Philadelphia’s population is about 139% greater than Washington DC.
  • Philadelphia’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Washington DC, making them very similar.
  • Philadelphia and Washington DC are similarly walkable.
  • Both Philadelphia and Washington DC have similar bike-friendliness scores (70 vs 67), meaning Philadelphia is about as safe for cyclists as Washington DC. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
  • Philadelphia’s crime rate is higher than Washington DC with a score of 66.09 compared to Washington DC’s 60.37. This means that Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
  • Philadelphia is considered to be less safe than Washington DC with a score of 33.91 vs Washington DC’s 39.63.
  • Air quality in Philadelphia is Good, and in Washington DC it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Philadelphia move

  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Pennsylvania moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Pennsylvania doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Philadelphia. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Philadelphia

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Philly, these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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

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: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Philadelphia, such as 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 — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites 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 Washington DC to Philadelphia?

The best time to move from Washington DC to Philadelphia is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Washington DC.

When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Philadelphia?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Washington DC to Philadelphia, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Washington DC to Philadelphia take?

Moving from Washington DC, MD to Philadelphia, covers 139 miles and usually takes one to two days. Need to move faster? Some Washington DC movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Philadelphia.

Which movers in Washington DC give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 7 movers give special rates to military members. 13 movers have deals for seniors.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Washington DC?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 58 movers in Washington DC advertise piano moving expertise. 43 movers in Washington DC provide antique moving services. State totals show 37 piano movers and 30 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,300 and 1,465.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.

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