Hiring long-distance movers and moving to Philadelphia will give you the opportunity to live in a city filled with American history. It is the place where the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were signed, so it’s safe to say it is the birthplace of the United States.
City hall with old building and traffic, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
There is a lot of history celebrated in the Old City district, which is filled with famous landmarks such as Benjamin Franklin’s grave, the Constitution Hall, the Liberty Bell, etc. It’s worth mentioning that Philadelphia is where the first library in the country was established, as well as many other important institutions. Besides cherishing its history, relocating to Philadelphia will offer you inspiring moments with its gastronomy, culture, sports, and art.
Is Moving to Philly the Right Choice for You?
Moving to Philly can be the right choice for some people depending on their individual circumstances. Philadelphia is a vibrant city with a rich cultural history and a diverse population. The city has a lot to offer in terms of arts, entertainment, sports, and cuisine. It also has a relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities on the East Coast. However, as with any move, it’s important to consider factors such as job prospects, cost of housing, transportation, and safety. It’s also important to do your research and visit the city to get a feel for whether it’s a good fit for you.
Ultimately, whether moving to Philly is the right choice for you depends on your own personal circumstances and preferences. Choosing to call this place home is an amazing decision, and you’ll have tons of good times once you move. Learn how to pack an apartment and how car shipping works, and get ready for the road. We can promise that you’ll enjoy everything that awaits you here. Additionally, if you enjoy arts, this is the place for you. The Mural Arts Program in Philadelphia has produced over 4,000 murals throughout the city, covering more than 30,000 square feet of public space. You can see some of them in the following video.
What to Know Before Moving to Philly?
Moving to Philly can be an exciting change as it has its own rules and way of living. There are some things that are specific only to this place, and as it is with every metropolitan area, some are great and some not so much. However, it will take time to adjust to the new town, especially if you are moving state to state or relocating from a small town to a big city.
If you decided that you’re moving to Philly, know that you’ll be residing in the largest community in Pennsylvania and the sixth-largest in the USA by population. Also, planning on moving across the country to come here means residing where James Madison, George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and many other historical figures lived. But before you make the final decision, there are some basic pros and cons you should know about.
What Are the Pros of Relocating to Philadelphia?
Affordable Cost of Living
Compared to cities with a similar number of residents and area, The P has lower costs of being a resident. For example, if we compare it with the neighbor New York, we can see that all everyday costs including groceries, rent, consumer prices, and restaurant prices are higher than here.
Easy to Get a Job
Finding a job here will be as simple as ABC. There are plenty of companies that are hiring. Anyone who has knowledge and skill will have many opportunities to get hired in this place.
Mild Climate
Because of the various geographical characteristics of the region, the town has a very diverse climate. It belongs to the humid subtropical climate zone that has moderately cold winters and hot summers. Both autumn and spring vary a lot, but they are mostly mild and tolerable. There are approximately 207 sunny days in one year but also more rain than the US average.
Plenty of Things to Do and See
With such a vivid history and a peculiar way of life, the place has been attracting people for centuries, creating a real melting pot of cultures. The cultural mix also left its mark on the city’s cuisine, which you can experience in the best restaurants in Philadelphia. There are also amazing museums and artistic venues to visit, and many other fun and educational things to do in Philadelphia.
Easy to Get Around
If you’re a fan of simplicity, you will enjoy the layout in the form of a grid, which allows you to navigate the place easily. Since it is an old town, most streets are narrow; some are one-way streets, while many of them in the old areas are cobblestone, which makes them beautiful for walking and sightseeing. There are five public squares, and the streets are named after trees and numbers.
The Location of the City
The P is close to New York and the Atlantic shore, which is another benefit. You can have weekend trips to the Big Apple anytime you want while avoiding the expensive cost of residing there.
What Would Be the Cons?
Overpopulation and Shortage of Residential Space
There is a shortage of residential areas, and the population is in constant increase. Currently, 5.7 million people reside in the metro area, while there are 1.5 million residents in the inner-city area.
Traffic Congestion
The struggle with traffic congestion comes along with the number of residents. Locals say that you never know how much time you will need to get somewhere, which can cause problems when commuting to work.
Taxes Are Higher Than National Average
Every resident must pay a wage tax of 3.8%, while non-residents who work here must pay 3.5%. The minimum combined 2020 sales tax rate is 8%, which is the total of state, county, and city sales tax rates.
Crime Rates
Almost all big cities in the world have this problem, and The City of Brotherly Love isn’t an exception. According to the website NeighborhoodScout, this place is safer than only 8% of US cities. However, there are always safer areas that you can choose to reside in, and you’ll have no problems with crime.
You Can Witness All Four Seasons in a Day
That’s right, it’s both a pro and a con. There are all four seasons here, but they could change in a single day. Most summer days seem muggy and uncomfortable for anyone who is not used to this kind of weather. There are also thunderstorms and lightning storms that can cause floods and some damage towards the end of summer.
The Cost of Living in Philadelphia Is Lower Than the US Average
Some research shows the cost of living in Philadelphia for a family of four would amount to $3,600 a month without rent and around $1,000 for a single person.
So, Is it expensive to live in Philly?
Affordability is the word in Philly since its rent prices are lower than in other cities of the same size and prominence. Renting costs from $1,200 to $1,800, depending on the area. For example, a one-bedroom apartment costs $1,440 on average and a two-bedroom apartment around $1,700. If you add monthly expenses on utilities around $150, internet around $65, and public transportation around $95, there’s your calculation of affordable living. However, according to some predictions, the real estate prices will jump in the near future.
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What Salary Do You Need to Live in Philadelphia? Know the Facts Before Hiring a Long-Distance Moving Company
The average monthly salary here is currently $3,300 after you pay all the taxes. According to our analysis, that isn’t enough, and Curbed confirms it. One of the important facts in our moving to Philadelphia guide is to look for a better-paid position, such as:
- Anesthesiologists and jobs in the medical industry in general
- Orthodontists
- Dentists
- Natural sciences managers
- Financial managers
- Sales managers
- Marketing managers
- Pharmacists
- Lawyers
Knowing the costs of your future destination will help you prepare your budget when moving cross country
Cross-Country Moving to Philadelphia – Choose Where to Live Before You Invest in Cross-Country Moving Services
What are the best neighborhoods in Philadelphia? Well, that will mostly depend on your preferences. Here’s our pick of favorite places in The P:
- For history lovers, the old Downtown is the most attractive part because of numerous historic sites, such as the Liberty Bell, the Franklin Institute, the Museum of American Revolution, the National Constitution Center, the Free Library, but also due to the beautiful architecture. Like other downtown areas, it’s full of shops, restaurants, and street art.
- The Bella Vista neighborhood deserves its name, which means “beautiful view,” but it is also known as “Little Italy” after the Italian settlers who preserved their culture and customs. This neighborhood is very charming, especially its oldest outdoor attraction, the 9th Street Italian Market. With a lot of parks and playgrounds, it is one of the best places to live in Philadelphia for a family. Not to mention that it has some of the best Philadelphia public schools.
- Northeast of the center is the Northern Liberties area, once known just as a manufacturing community, but now a developing area with restaurants, bars, and boutiques. It’s very attractive for the younger population because of its hipster music scene and elevated train line, which makes getting downtown or elsewhere very comfortable and quick.
- Originating from the Native American word, which means “a place we go drink,” the name Manayunk perfectly suits this neighborhood close to the river even today because of its numerous bars. It features Victorian-style houses lined along the steep streets.
- South Philly is known for its sports stadiums but also for its Italian Market, while the West is famous for its universities and various services for students along with a lot of green spaces. The Northeast part is mostly a residential area with a suburban spirit, therefore suitable for raising children, and Northwest has a lot of alleys lined with trees and charm of its own.
Read every guide and choose your favorite area before moving to Philadelphia
Moving to Philadelphia Guide on Neighborhoods
Philadelphians are very careful when it comes to choosing the best neighborhood in P. However, being an old town, it does not have a big real estate market, so residential construction is developing fast. If you love vintage houses, make sure to check if your potential home is free of lead paint. The security deposit when renting usually amounts to two months’ rent, but it is returned after the lease expires if you have not caused any damage. A renter’s insurance policy is rather cheap, especially if you’re bundling.
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Sit back and relax, we’ve got packing services covered. We use moving blankets, shrink wrap, bubble wrap and even custom wooden crating. Your stuff will be protected and carefully handled during the move.
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Move your car across the country in an open or enclosed trailer – for an affordable fee. We offer car transport as a standalone service, but you can bundle it with your household move and get a hefty discount.
Learn moreChoose Between Many Vibrant Areas
But when moving to Philadelphia, where to live? For people who are relocating here with a tight budget, there are affordable areas such as East Passyunk and Manayunk, and for the wealthy ones, there is Society Hill or Rittenhouse. Students usually settle in University City, Graduate Hospital, or Powelton Village. If you’re relocating with kids, you can settle well in Spring Garden, Fairmount, Bella Vista, and East Passyunk. Retired people tend to flock to the Old City, Chestnut Hill, Spruce Hill, Cedar Park, or Chinatown.
Things You Need to Know Before You Rent a Great Apartment in Philly and Hire Cross-Country Movers
Before packing your items and moving to Philadelphia, you’ll have to do a lot of research if you want to find your future home. You should keep in mind that the real estate market is very expensive here, and it may be hard to find the perfect place. Because of that, many choose to rent instead of buying.
One of the most important moving to Philadelphia tips is to know that the home market is not very big. It mostly offers row homes with their simple layouts and some modern apartments in condo complexes emerging around the town. Some have rooftops displaying beautiful views of the skyline that you’ll surely like. However, it’s easier nowadays to rent an apartment than to rent a house.
Do your research before buying or renting a place
There Are Many Local and International Companies That Are Hiring
If you’re relocating for a job, you’re settled. If not, you don’t have to be intimidated. Philadelphia is home to ten law firms ranking among the largest in the country and twelve companies from the prestigious Fortune Global 500 list. There are also federal government institutions present, including the Federal Reserve Bank and US Mint as major employers.
Philadelphia is also a hub for health education and research, so there are job vacancies you can apply for in this field, as well as in education and accounting due to the growing population. Other big employers are the University of Pennsylvania and the Children’s Hospital. Being a multilingual environment, it also employs professionals to cover these needs, so you won’t have any trouble getting a job in the new city.
Finding a job is easy when moving long-distance and coming to The P
Know the Transportation Options Before Long-Distance Moving
Even though it is difficult to cope with traffic jams, there are plenty of other transportation options. Firstly, there’s a well-maintained subway system that connects the suburbs and the Downtown area, and it can take you anywhere fast. There are also buses, taxis, a lot of bike lanes, and bikes for rent, as well as a railway.
If you’d like to move to the suburbs and your job is located in the center, you can rely on the subway, but it would be a smart idea to have a car with you. You can get auto transport services and have your vehicle delivered to your future home.
It is easy to get around even if you don't drive
Before Hiring Long-Distance Movers, Here Are Some More Moving to Philadelphia Tips for Newcomers
The City of Brotherly Love has plenty to offer to all newcomers, and there are many things you will love. Here’s a list of a few more things you should learn before relocating to Philadelphia:
- Pop-up parks here are booming. The most famous one is Spruce Street Harbor Park, organized along the river every summer.
- The Museum of the American Revolution and the Philadelphia History Museum are great places to learn about history.
- When it comes to art, don’t miss the Barnes Foundation, which has an exquisite collection of impressionists’ and modern art painters’ work. Other museums to visit are the Rodin Museum, the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
- People here call the downtown area Center City. This part of the town is known for numerous restaurants and bars, but also for its gothic-style Town Hall.
- You might notice some attitude, so be sure to treat everyone with respect.
- Order “one whiz with” – a sandwich with cheese and grilled onions. The most popular meal is the famous cheesesteak, which is a beefsteak with melted cheese served with onions and peppers or other side servings.
- There are many sports teams, and the locals love them, so if you want to make friends in a new city quickly, make sure to start cheering for their teams.
- Make sure you check how much does it cost to move to Philadelphia – compare moving quotes of several companies that provide cross-country moving services and different types of moving insurance.
You'll feel like a local in no time
Do You Need Any More Reasons for Moving to Philadelphia?
Relocating to Philadelphia can be a great option for those looking for a vibrant, diverse city with a rich cultural history and a relatively low cost of living. Philadelphia offers a variety of entertainment options, including world-class museums, theaters, and sports teams, as well as beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. While the city does have higher taxes than the national average, it also offers relatively affordable housing options and a strong job market in a variety of industries.
In case you’re not so sure about this long-distance moving adventure as a permanent solution, you can always come and rent a place and just see how you like it here before spending your money. Now that you know the prices of rent, figure out the moving out for the first-time budget so you can cover the costs of long-distance moving services, and enjoy all that Philly has to offer.
FAQ
What Is the Cost of Living in Philadelphia?
The cost of living in Philadelphia is generally considered to be lower than that of other major cities on the East Coast, such as New York or Boston. However, the cost of living in Philadelphia can vary depending on factors such as neighborhood, housing type, and lifestyle. In general, housing costs in Philadelphia are relatively affordable compared to other large cities, although prices can vary widely depending on the area. Additionally, while the city has a relatively high local income tax and sales tax, the cost of goods and services can be lower than in other major cities. Overall, the cost of living in Philadelphia is manageable for many residents, although it’s important to research the specific costs and lifestyle factors that are most important to you before making a decision to move there.
What Are the Most Popular Neighborhoods to Live in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has many diverse neighborhoods that appeal to different types of people, but some of the most popular areas to live in include Center City, Rittenhouse Square, Fishtown, University City, and South Philadelphia. Center City is Philadelphia’s downtown district and offers a mix of modern high-rise apartments and historic townhomes. Rittenhouse Square is a trendy area known for its upscale shops, restaurants, and apartments.
Fishtown is a rapidly gentrifying neighborhood with vibrant nightlife and a growing arts scene. University City is located near several of Philadelphia’s universities and is popular with students and young professionals. South Philadelphia is a working-class area known for its Italian-American heritage and diverse restaurant scene. These neighborhoods offer a variety of housing options, amenities, and lifestyles, making them popular with a diverse range of residents.
What Is the Public Transportation System Like in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has an extensive public transportation system, which includes buses, trolleys, trains, and a subway system known as SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority). SEPTA operates both above-ground and underground rail lines, as well as bus and trolley lines that run throughout the city and the surrounding suburbs. The system is generally considered to be affordable and convenient, with a variety of payment options and frequent service on many lines.
In addition, SEPTA offers a number of services to assist passengers with disabilities or other special needs, including paratransit services and accessible stations and vehicles. While delays and service disruptions can occur, overall the public transportation system in Philadelphia is a reliable and convenient way to get around the city and the surrounding areas.
How Is the Job Market in Philadelphia?
The job market in Philadelphia is generally considered to be strong, with a diverse range of industries and a growing economy. Philadelphia is home to several major universities and hospitals, which are major employers in the city. In addition, the city has a strong manufacturing industry, as well as a growing technology sector. Other major industries in Philadelphia include finance, tourism, and retail. While the job market has experienced some challenges in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other economic factors, the city’s economy is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
What Are the Best Schools in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is home to several highly-regarded schools and universities, making it a popular destination for students of all ages. Some of the top schools in Philadelphia include the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and Temple University, all of which offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. Additionally, the city has a strong public school system, with several highly-ranked high schools and middle schools. Other notable schools in Philadelphia include the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts, which is known for its strong arts programs, and the Science Leadership Academy, which focuses on project-based learning and technology education.
What Are Some of the Best Things to Do in Philadelphia?
Some of the best things to do in the city include visiting historic sites such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, exploring world-class museums such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Franklin Institute, and experiencing the vibrant food and beverage scene in neighborhoods such as Fishtown and East Passyunk. Philadelphia is also known for its parks and outdoor spaces, including Fairmount Park and the Schuylkill River Trail, as well as its many festivals and events, such as the Philadelphia Flower Show and the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts. With its rich history, diverse culture, and lively atmosphere, there is always something to do in Philadelphia.
What Is the Weather Like in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has a humid subtropical climate, which means that the city experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers and cold winters. In the summer months, temperatures in Philadelphia can reach into the high 80s or low 90s (Fahrenheit) with high humidity levels, while in the winter months, temperatures can drop below freezing with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall in Philadelphia are generally mild, with comfortable temperatures and occasional rain. It’s important to note that weather patterns in Philadelphia can be unpredictable, with sudden temperature changes and storms occurring throughout the year.
Is Philadelphia a Safe Place to Live?
Like any large city, Philadelphia has both safe and less safe neighborhoods, and crime rates can vary depending on the area. While the city does have some areas with higher crime rates, overall, Philadelphia is considered a relatively safe place to live. The city has implemented a number of measures to improve public safety in recent years, including increased police patrols, improved lighting, and the installation of surveillance cameras in high-crime areas. It’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings when living in any urban area, but for the most part, Philadelphia is a safe and enjoyable place to call home.
How Diverse Is the Population of Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is a very diverse city, with a population that reflects a range of cultures and backgrounds. According to the most recent US Census data, the city’s population is approximately 44% African American, 35% White, 14% Hispanic or Latino, and 7% Asian. In addition to these larger groups, Philadelphia is home to many smaller communities of people from around the world, including large populations of Irish, Italian, and Polish Americans, as well as a growing community of immigrants from Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. This diversity is reflected in the city’s cultural institutions, restaurants, and festivals, and is a source of pride for many residents.
How Do I Find Housing in Philadelphia?
Online resources such as Zillow, Trulia, and Apartments.com offer listings of available apartments and homes for rent or sale and are a good place to start your search. Additionally, many property management companies in the city maintain their own websites with information about available properties. Social media platforms like Facebook and Craigslist can also be helpful for finding housing opportunities. If you’re interested in a particular neighborhood, it can be helpful to walk or drive around the area and look for “For Rent” signs or apartment buildings that may not be listed online. It’s also a good idea to work with a local real estate agent, who can help you navigate the housing market and find properties that meet your needs and budget.
What Are the Best Places to Eat in Philadelphia?
Some of the best places to eat in Philadelphia include Reading Terminal Market, a historic indoor market that features dozens of vendors selling everything from traditional Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels to fresh seafood, Pat’s King of Steaks, a legendary sandwich shop that claims to have invented the Philly cheesesteak, and Zahav, a high-end Israeli restaurant that has won numerous awards for its innovative cuisine. Other notable restaurants in Philadelphia include Federal Donuts, a popular chain of donut and fried chicken shops, DiNic’s, a sandwich shop that is known for its roast pork sandwiches, and Vetri Cucina, an Italian restaurant that has been named one of the best in the country. With its diverse culinary offerings and exciting dining options, Philadelphia is a foodie’s paradise.
What Are the Best Ways to Get Around in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia offers several convenient and affordable ways to get around the city. One of the most popular options is SEPTA, the city’s public transportation system, which includes buses, trolleys, trains, and a subway system. SEPTA is a great way to get around the city and the surrounding suburbs, with frequent service and affordable fares. In addition, Philadelphia has a bike-sharing program called Indego, which allows users to rent bikes for short trips around the city. For those who prefer to drive, Philadelphia has several major highways and thoroughfares, although traffic can be heavy during rush hour. Parking can also be challenging in some areas, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead if you’re driving.
What Is the Nightlife Like in Philadelphia?
Some of the best nightlife areas in Philadelphia include Center City, Old City, and Fishtown, which offer everything from upscale cocktail bars to dive bars and nightclubs. The city is also home to several major sports teams, including the Philadelphia Eagles and Philadelphia 76ers, making it a great destination for sports fans. In addition, Philadelphia has a strong music scene, with several venues that host live music and performances on a regular basis.
What Is the Sports Scene Like in Philadelphia?
The city is home to several major professional sports teams, including the Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), Philadelphia Phillies (MLB), Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), and Philadelphia Flyers (NHL). The city’s sports venues include Lincoln Financial Field, Citizens Bank Park, the Wells Fargo Center, and the Philadelphia Sports Complex. In addition to these major teams, Philadelphia is also home to several minor leagues and college sports teams, making it a great destination for sports enthusiasts of all kinds. Philadelphia’s sports scene is known for its intense rivalries, enthusiastic fans, and rich history, with many iconic moments and legends associated with the city’s teams.
How Do I Make Friends in Philadelphia?
One way to meet new people is to participate in group activities and classes, such as fitness classes, cooking classes, or language classes. Philadelphia also has many social clubs and organizations for people with similar interests, from running groups to book clubs to photography clubs. Another great way to make friends in Philadelphia is to volunteer for local causes and organizations, which can help you meet like-minded people and give back to the community at the same time. Finally, social media platforms like Meetup and Facebook can be helpful for finding events and groups that match your interests.
What Are the Best Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Philadelphia?
One of the most popular parks in Philadelphia is Fairmount Park, which spans over 2,000 acres and includes several historic mansions, gardens, and hiking trails. Other notable parks in the city include Rittenhouse Square, a popular gathering spot in the heart of Center City, the Schuylkill River Trail, a scenic bike and pedestrian path that runs along the Schuylkill River, and Wissahickon Valley Park, a nature reserve that offers hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and waterfalls. Philadelphia is also home to several public gardens, including the Morris Arboretum and the Philadelphia Zoo, which offer a unique and beautiful outdoor experience.
How Do I Get Involved in the Local Community in Philadelphia?
One way to get involved is to attend community events and meetings, which can provide an opportunity to meet people, learn about local issues, and participate in community activities. Additionally, many local non-profit organizations and community groups offer volunteer opportunities and ways to get involved in community projects and initiatives. Another great way to get involved is to join a neighborhood association or community group, which can help you connect with your neighbors and work together to make your community a better place.
What Are the Historical Landmarks to Visit in Philadelphia?
One of the most iconic landmarks in Philadelphia is Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed. The Liberty Bell, located just across the street from Independence Hall, is another must-see attraction, with its famous crack and storied history. Other notable historical landmarks in Philadelphia include the Betsy Ross House, where the first American flag is said to have been sewn, the National Constitution Center, which offers interactive exhibits and programming related to the US Constitution, and the Eastern State Penitentiary, a former prison that is now a museum and historic site.
What Are the Top Museums to Visit in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is home to many world-class museums, each offering a unique and fascinating look into the city’s history, art, and culture. Some of the top museums to visit in Philadelphia include the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which boasts an impressive collection of over 240,000 works of art from around the world, including famous pieces like Van Gogh’s Sunflowers and Marcel Duchamp’s Étant donnés. Another must-see is the Franklin Institute, a science museum that offers hands-on exhibits and interactive displays on topics ranging from space and astronomy to anatomy and physiology.
For those interested in American history, the National Constitution Center is a great place to explore the US Constitution and its impact on our country’s past, present, and future. Finally, the Barnes Foundation is a unique museum that features a collection of art from some of the most famous impressionist and post-impressionist artists in history, including Renoir, Cézanne, and Matisse.
What Are the Opportunities for Higher Education in Philadelphia?
The University of Pennsylvania, located in the heart of Philadelphia, is consistently ranked among the top Ivy League schools in the country and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across a variety of disciplines. Other notable universities in Philadelphia include Drexel University, Temple University, and Saint Joseph’s University, all of which offer a diverse selection of degree programs, ranging from business and engineering to health sciences and the arts. Community colleges, such as Community College of Philadelphia, also provide a more affordable option for those looking to begin their higher education journey or gain new job skills.
