How we chose the best moving companies for your TN to PA move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 71 Tennessee moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Tennessee to Pennsylvania?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Tennessee to Pennsylvania.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,144 – $4,305 |
$728 – $1,837 |
$570 – $1,023 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,269 – $5,875 |
$1,282 – $2,709 |
$556 – $1,277 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$4,059 – $7,699 |
$1,775 – $3,467 |
$756 – $1,474 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 818-mile move from TN to
PA using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Tennessee to Pennsylvania
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Tennessee to Pennsylvania typically costs between
$1,144 and
$4,305.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,269
and $5,875
when moving from TN to PA.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Tennessee to Pennsylvania,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $4,059
up to $7,699.
Cost of moving containers from Tennessee to Pennsylvania
If you’re relocating from Tennessee to Pennsylvania,
you’ll typically spend between $728
and $1,837 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,282 up to
$2,709.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,775 and
$3,467. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Tennessee.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Tennessee to Pennsylvania
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, but remember,
you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between
$570 and
$1,023.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$556 to
$1,277.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $756 and
$1,474.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from TN to PA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Tennessee to Pennsylvania. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Tennessee, which usually means higher prices.
-
Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from TN to PA
Transitioning from Tennessee to Pennsylvania gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Tennessee vs. Pennsylvania
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Tennessee and Pennsylvania are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Tennessee |
Pennsylvania |
| Average rent |
$1,047 |
$1,110 |
| Average home cost |
$319,208 |
$268,824 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$64,035 |
$73,170 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
99 |
| Unemployment rate |
3.3% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
9.55% |
6.34% |
| State income tax |
0.0% |
3.07% |
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Rent is about 6% more expensive in Pennsylvania than in Tennessee. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
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Home prices in Pennsylvania are about 16% lower than in Tennessee, making your monthly mortgage much more manageable.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 14% more in Pennsylvania than in Tennessee. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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Moving to Pennsylvania means you’ll be spending 10% more than you did in Tennessee. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
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Unemployment rates are about the same in Tennessee and Pennsylvania, so you’re unlikely to see much difference in job opportunities or competition after you move.
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Sales tax in Pennsylvania is 34% lower than in Tennessee, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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Pennsylvania has a state income tax, while Tennessee does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
How life is different in Pennsylvania vs. Tennessee
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how Pennsylvania and Tennessee compare.
|
Pennsylvania |
Tennessee |
| Population |
12,961,683 |
7,126,489 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high |
83ºF |
88ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
27ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
53″ |
| Annual snow |
38″ |
5″ |
| Crime index |
17.62 |
29.24 |
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If you’re moving from Tennessee to Pennsylvania, you’ll find Pennsylvania has about 82% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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The last presidential election saw both Tennessee and Pennsylvania siding with the Republican party.
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The average summer high in Pennsylvania is 83°F, while Tennessee averages 88°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
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In the coldest months, Pennsylvania dips to about 19°F, colder than 27°F in Tennessee.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
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In Pennsylvania, you’ll get about 44 inches of rain each year, less than the 53 inches you’re used to in Tennessee.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
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Each year, Pennsylvania gets about 38 inches of snow, far more than the 5 inches you might be accustomed to in Tennessee.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
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Pennsylvania boasts a lower crime rate than Tennessee, with a crime index of 17.62 compared to 29.24.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of Tennessee vs. Pennsylvania
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Pennsylvania to Tennessee:
| Pros of living in Tennessee |
Pros of living in Pennsylvania |
| Abundant recreational opportunities |
Low cost of living |
| No income taxes |
Abundant fun and recreational activities |
| Legendary music scene |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Natural beauty and parks galore |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Delicious southern comfort food |
Excellent education options |
Comparing the cons of living in Tennessee vs. Pennsylvania
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Tennessee to Pennsylvania:
| Cons of living in Tennessee |
Cons of living in Pennsylvania |
| Tendency for severe weather |
Harsh winter weather |
| Oppressive summer heat and humidity |
Bad driving conditions |
| Abundant presence of nuclear power plants |
Nuclear power plants |
| Traffic congestion |
Unpredictable weather |
| High urban crime rates |
High taxes on gasoline |
Other things to consider for your Tennessee to Pennsylvania move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
-
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. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Pennsylvania moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Pennsylvania, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
-
Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to Pennsylvania. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in Pennsylvania
Get excited to explore Pennsylvania. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Pennsylvania
- Eastern State Penitentiary
- The Hershey Story Museum
- National Civil War Museum
- SteelStacks
- Steamtown National Historic Site
Parks in Pennsylvania
- Gettysburg National Military Park
- Presque Isle State Park
- Core Creek Park
- Allentown Fish Hatchery
- Rocky Ridge County Park
Sports teams in Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)
- Philadelphia Eagles Football (NFL)
- Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)
- Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)
- Philadelphia Union (MLS)
Universities in Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania
- Penn State University
- Carnegie Mellon University.
- University of Pittsburgh
- Temple University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Tennessee to Pennsylvania?
Do movers transport your car from Tennessee to Pennsylvania?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Tennessee to
Pennsylvania
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Tennessee to Pennsylvania?
Many people are making the move from Tennessee to Pennsylvania to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Pennsylvania has to offer, like low cost of living and abundant fun and recreational activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Tennessee or Pennsylvania?
Living in Tennessee usually costs less than in Pennsylvania.
Housing
is much more affordable in Pennsylvania,
with average rent about 6% less and home prices 16% lower than in Tennessee.
The tax rate is about the same between Tennessee and Pennsylvania.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Pennsylvania?
Planning to move to Pennsylvania? A single adult should aim for an income of around $56,150 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,452 for an individual, or $5,603 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Tennessee?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Tennessee:
5 provide military discounts;
3 have senior-discount programs;
2 list student deals;
1 advertise educator discounts;
2 extend special rates to law enforcement.
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Tennessee moving services
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When relocating from Tennessee to Pennsylvania, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,269 to
$5,875, roughly
$1,995 for a container move, and close to
$916
for a rental truck.
Fact Checked by:
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