Factors influencing moving costs from Philadelphia to Columbustoggle

The cost of Philadelphia movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Philadelphia to Columbus can be as low as $1,365 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $ 8,021.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Philadelphia, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $744 to $1,767. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Philadelphia to Columbus

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

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

Philadelphia Columbus
Average rent cost $1,695 $1,100
Average home value $216,914 $157,861
Average income (per capita) $70,746 $50,542
Cost of living (single person) $2,541 $2,041
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,190 $3,834
Unemployment rate 10.6% 5.3%
Sales tax 8.0% 9.0%
State income tax 3.07% 5.49%
  • Rent prices in Columbus are 35% lower than in Philadelphia, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Columbus.
    Home prices in Columbus are 27.2% lower than in Philadelphia.
  • Income in Columbus is 28.6% lower than in Philadelphia, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Columbus include Aflac, TSYS, and Synovus.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Columbus is 19.7% lower than in Philadelphia. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Columbus is 38.1% lower than in Philadelphia.
  • The unemployment rate in Columbus is 50.00% lower than in Philadelphia.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Columbus, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Columbus are 12.50% higher than in Philadelphia.
  • State income taxes in Columbus are 78.83% higher than in Philadelphia.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,409.68 in Columbus to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Philadelphia.

How life is different in Philadelphia vs. Columbus

Columbus Philadelphia
Population 206,922 1,603,797
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 2 9
Walkability score 25 75
Bike friendliness score 31 67
Crime Index 72.18 66.09
Safety Index 27.82 33.91
Air Quality Good Good
  • Columbus's population is about 87% less than Philadelphia.
  • Columbus's public transportation has a score of 2 out of 10 versus Philadelphia's higher score of 9.
  • Columbus is less walkable than Philadelphia with a score of 25 out of 100 vs Philadelphia's 75 out of 100.
  • Columbus has a bike-friendliness score 31 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Philadelphia, which has a score of 67 out of 100.
  • Columbus's crime rate is higher than Philadelphia with a score of 72.18 compared to Philadelphia's 66.09. This means that Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 72.18% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09%.
  • Columbus is considered to be less safe than Philadelphia with a score of 27.82 vs Philadelphia's 33.91.
  • Air quality in Columbus is good, and in Philadelphia it's good.

Other things to consider for your Philadelphia vs. Columbus move

  • Weather: Columbus has hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโ€”some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • State licensing: Moving companies in Georgia are regulated by the the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GDPS). Regulations include insurance requirements and the handling of consumer complaints. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Georgia moving company\โ€™s license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
  • Moving permits: You wonโ€™t need a moving permit in Georgia, though it\โ€™s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • 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 toColumbus Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations.Opt for Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness, offered by movers at no extra charge. However, it provides minimal coverage, with the mover's responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, explore other options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Columbus

Now that youโ€™ve chosen "Lowell of the South[" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Columbus to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • MidTown
  • Uptown
  • Downtown Columbus
  • Overlook
  • Lakebottom

Best neighborhoods for families

  • North Columbus
  • Brookstone
  • Green Island Hills
  • MidTown
  • Ivy Park

Things to do in Columbus

Now that you've made the move to Georgia, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Columbus. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Columbus, such as the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center, National Civil War Naval Museum, Columbus Museum, Coca-Cola Space Science Center, and The Lunch Box Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Flat Rock Park โ€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Columbus Lions (NAL), Columbus River Dragons (FPHL), Columbus Chatt-a-Hoots (SBL), or Columbus Rapids (NISL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Philadelphia to Columbus?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Philadelphia to Columbus?

Because most people are moving from Philadelphia to Columbus 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 Philadelphia to Columbus take?

The 886-mile move from Philadelphia, PA, to Columbus, GA, takes two to seven days. Some Philadelphia movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Columbus.

Helpful moving resources