Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Oakland to Philadelphia Movers

Moving from the vibrant, bustling city of Oakland, CA to the historic charm of Philadelphia, PA is an exciting adventure that promises new beginnings and opportunities. Leaving behind the sunny Bay Area, known for its tech hubs and cultural diversity, for the City of Brotherly Love, with its rich American history and iconic cheesesteaks, represents a significant shift in scenery and lifestyle. It's crucial to ensure this long-distance move is smooth and stress-free by entrusting your belongings to trusted and reliable professional movers, like Great Guys Moving, who use an unbiased algorithm to rank the best movers in the country.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Philadelphia to Oakland guide.

5 Best Oakland to Philadelphia Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,273+ data points

El Sobrante, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2597230 Verify

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san francisco 2023 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in oakland 2022 ocd moving services llc image
#2
EverSafe Moving Co. Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,941+ data points

Philadelphia, PA
Local Movers, Long-distance Movers, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2261303 Verify

About EverSafe Moving Co.

Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to its team of ...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in philadelphia 2023 eversafe moving co image
top ranked movers in philadelphia 2022 eversafe moving co image
#3
Pineapple Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 701+ data points

Collingswood, NJ
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3579435 Verify

About Pineapple Movers

Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in philadelphia 2023 pineapple movers image
#4
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,517+ data points

San Bruno, CA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Packing and unpacking See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3139436 Verify

About Kora Moving

Kora Moving, based in San Francisco, was established in 2018 by Carlos Viera, who has over 17 years of experience in the moving industry. Th...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san bruno 2023 kora moving image
#5
Rock 'n Roll Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 304+ data points

Oakland, CA
Residential moving, Packing and unpacking service, Dismantling and reassembling service See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/28/2022)

USDOT: 3277673 Verify

About Rock 'n Roll Moving

Rock 'n Roll Moving is a young company comprised of musicians and artists with years of experience in residential and local moving services....Read More >>

Relocating from Oakland to Philadelphia Neighborhood Guide

When considering a move from one city to another, it helps to draw parallels between what you know and what you're about to discover. In this guide, we offer a unique comparison between Oakland, CA & Philadelphia, PA neighborhoods to ease your transition. Discover similar vibes, cultures, and amenities, making the unknown familiar.

OaklandPhiladelphia
RockridgeChestnut Hill

Quaint shops, community vibe

Piedmont AvenueManayunk

Diverse dining, shopping scene

TemescalFishtown

Edgy art scene, innovative eateries

MontclairChestnut Hill again

Both have lush green spaces, family-friendly

Jack London SquareOld City

Waterfront ambience, rich history

Lake MerrittRittenhouse Square

Urban park, community events

Grand LakePassyunk Square

Bustling markets, local charm

UptownMidtown Village

Nightlife, arts and culture

West OaklandKensington

Industrial roots, creative spirit

North OaklandUniversity City

Academic atmosphere, youthful energy

For someone charmed by the trendy boutiques and artisanal coffee shops of Rockridge, you'll find a similar spirit in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, known for its quaint shops nestled amongst historic buildings. If the vibrant art community and bustling eateries of Temescal are what you love, Fishtown will impress with its edgy atmosphere and innovative food scene. Lastly, for those accustomed to the scenic runs and community gatherings at Lake Merritt, the urban greenspace of Rittenhouse Square offers a lively alternative with frequent events and a welcoming community feel. Each of these transitions underline how new surroundings in Philadelphia can echo the cherished characteristics of Oakland neighborhoods, ensuring you feel right at home.

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Things to Do in Philadelphia

  • Tour the Liberty Bell Center
  • Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art
  • Eat at Reading Terminal Market
  • Explore the Philadelphia Zoo
  • Stroll through Longwood Gardens
  • Tour Eastern State Penitentiary
  • Bike on Schuylkill Banks

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia

Moving from one city to another involves weighing various factors to make the best decision for you and your family. This guide compares moving from Oakland, CA to Philadelphia, PA, showing an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation. Through detailed charts, we aim to make the decision-making process easier by highlighting the pros and cons.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less historical sites
  • Smaller public transit system
  • Less seasonal weather
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Rich historical heritage
  • Larger public transit options
  • Distinct seasons
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Smaller arts scene
  • Less cuisine diversity
  • No Silicon Valley access
  • Harsher winters
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Vibrant arts scene
  • Diverse cuisines
  • Proximity to Silicon Valley
  • Milder winters

Moving to Philadelphia from Oakland offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a city with a rich historical heritage and vibrant arts scene. While Oakland is known for its proximity to Silicon Valley and diverse cuisines, Philadelphia boasts a larger public transit system and more affordable living. For arts and culture enthusiasts, places like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the vibrant murals throughout the city provide a cornucopia of visual delights. In contrast, Oakland offers proximity to tech innovations and a milder climate. Each city has its perks and challenges, but no matter where you decide to live, exploring local neighborhoods, parks like Fairmount Park in Philly, and local eateries will help you feel at home.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia

Food greatly shapes the local culture and everyday living experience in a city. Understanding the culinary scene of your new home is essential for a smooth transition. Therefore, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland, CA & Philadelphia, PA to provide a closer look at what each city offers food-wise.

OaklandPhiladelphia

Most iconic local food item

Sourdough BreadPhilly Cheesesteak

Most popular meat dish

Korean BBQRoast Pork Sandwich

Most popular street food item

TacosPretzels

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit TacosSeitan Cheesesteak

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Chez Panisse
  • Commis
  • Shakewell
  • Reading Terminal Market
  • Zahav
  • Pat's King of Steaks

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

98

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

98

In Philadelphia, the iconic Philly Cheesesteak is an experience in itself, best enjoyed in its birthplace amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Popular eateries like Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks in South Philly offer authentic tastes of this beloved sandwich. For those seeking a twist on traditional flavors, Reading Terminal Market provides a culinary adventure with its plethora of diverse stalls. The city's food scene embraces both history and innovation, ensuring there's always something new to taste. Additionally, Philly's growing vegan scene, highlighted by offerings such as seitan cheesesteaks, caters to a diverse range of dietary preferences, solidifying its status as a city that loves its food in all forms.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to spots for dining out. This restaurant comparison is designed to bridge the culinary gap between Oakland and Philadelphia, helping you transition smoothly by identifying counterparts to your favorite Oakland eateries in your new home city. Whether you’re in search of high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic food experiences, this guide aims to make Philadelphia feel like home, one meal at a time.

CommisVetri Cucina

Both offer a high-end dining experience with a focus on meticulous preparation and local ingredients.

Brown Sugar KitchenSouth

Southern comfort food with a contemporary twist, capturing the essence of Brown Sugar Kitchen's soulful dishes.

Shan Dong RestaurantHan Dynasty

Authentic Chinese cuisine with a reputation for bold flavors and traditional dishes, reminiscent of Shan Dong.

La Farine BakeryBelle Cakery

Both specialize in French-inspired pastries and breads, making them local favorites for sweet and savory treats.

Wood TavernThe Love

Cozy, upscale casual dining with a diverse menu that focuses on American cuisine, much like Wood Tavern.

PizzaioloPizzeria Vetri

Artisanal pizzas that draw inspiration from traditional Italian techniques, paralleling Pizzaiolo's craftsmanship.

Dona TomasEl Vez

Both are celebrated for their innovative approach to Mexican cuisine, featuring vibrant, flavorful dishes.

Hawking BirdFederal Donuts

While known for donuts, Federal Donuts also serves up crave-worthy fried chicken, echoing Hawking Bird’s specialty.

Mama's Royal CafeHoney's Sit 'N Eat

Both are go-to spots for hearty, homestyle breakfasts and brunches with a unique and comforting twist.

Burma SuperstarVientiane Café

Showcasing the flavors of Southeast Asia with a focus on authenticity and bold spices, similar to Burma Superstar.

Embarking on a culinary expedition in Philadelphia can be just as rewarding as it was back in Oakland. Venturing into Vetri Cucina will remind you of the intricate and refined dishes that Commis is known for, while exploring South’s menu offers a slice of Brown Sugar Kitchen’s comforting soul food, reimagined with a Philly twist. Meanwhile, the transition from Hawking Bird's signature fried chicken to the equally delicious and intriguing options at Federal Donuts reveals how similar culinary concepts can find fresh expressions in new locales. Each restaurant on this list has been carefully selected to help bridge the gap between what was cherished back home and what awaits to be discovered in Philadelphia, ensuring that every meal is a step towards feeling more at home in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia

Real estate is crucial when considering a move. Understand how Oakland and Philadelphia compare in housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and walkability to make an informed decision.

Examining the real estate landscape, Oakland's market is significantly pricier than Philadelphia's, reflecting the broader cost-of-living differences between California and Pennsylvania. Philadelphia offers a surprisingly rich architectural tapestry, with historic Georgian and Federal styles pervasive throughout its neighborhoods, a stark contrast to Oakland’s mix of Victorian and modern homes. The higher walkability and bikeability scores in Philadelphia suggest a more compact and accessible urban layout, enhancing the day-to-day urban lifestyle compared to Oakland. Additionally, listings in Philadelphia often highlight historic details and proximity to local amenities, showcasing the city's rich history and vibrant urban life.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Philadelphia, PA

1. Manayunk: With its easy access to the Wissahickon Valley Park trails and numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops, Manayunk is a paradise for pet owners.

2. Fairmount: Known for its proximity to the expansive Fairmount Park, this neighborhood offers endless green spaces and dog parks for your furry friends to explore.

3. Queen Village: This community shines with its welcoming attitude towards pets, featuring several pet stores, doggy daycares, and the beloved Mario Lanza Park where local dogs love to play.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia

When relocating, it's crucial to understand how the weather in Oakland and Philadelphia will impact your daily life. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences and prepare you for what lies ahead, ensuring no surprises as you transition from the west to the east coast.

Summer icon
72°F / 56°F

Oakland, CA

87°F / 68°F

Philadelphia, PA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

40°F / 26°F

Philadelphia, PA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23"

Oakland, CA

47"

Philadelphia, PA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

Oakland, CA

22"

Philadelphia, PA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia, you'll find significant weather differences. For starters, summers in Philadelphia are hotter and more humid, which might require some adjustment for those accustomed to Oakland's milder climate. Winter brings another distinct change; Philadelphia experiences colder temperatures and snowfall, unlike Oakland's mild, rainier winters. Additionally, the transition from an area prone to earthquakes to one where snowstorms and occasionally hurricanes occur may demand new forms of preparedness. Understanding these nuances will help you adapt more comfortably to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the shift in cost of living, tax rates, and economic conditions between Oakland and Philadelphia becomes crucial. This comparison will give you a clearer idea of what to expect financially as you transition from the West Coast to the East Coast.

Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia will notably change your financial landscape. Not only is the average household income lower in Philadelphia, but the cost of living is substantially less, bringing some balance. The lower state income tax in Pennsylvania can offer some relief despite the generally higher property tax rate compared to California. Key industries shift from tech-heavy in Oakland to a focus on education and healthcare in Philadelphia, which may influence job opportunities. Understanding these economic conditions is essential for adjusting your budget and expectations upon relocation.

Political & Religious Comparison between Oakland, CA and Philadelphia, PA

As you consider moving from Oakland to Philadelphia, understanding the comparison of the politics between Oakland & Philadelphia and the religious landscape offers insight into the community you're joining. This snapshot provides a quick look at the political leanings, local governmental structures, and religious affiliations prevalent in each city.

OaklandPhiladelphia

Political Make-up

Strongly LiberalStrongly Liberal

Local Politics

Progressive City CouncilDiverse City Council with strong Democratic presence

Religion

Diverse; notable presence of Catholic and Protestant communitiesDiverse; large Catholic community alongside significant Protestant and Muslim populations

In both Oakland and Philadelphia, you'll find a strongly liberal political makeup, reflecting in local governance and policies which might affect the social and economic environment you'll live in. Oakland's city council is known for its progressive stance, often pushing forward policies that champion social justice and equity. Philadelphia, while also liberal, has a city council that showcases a wider political diversity, still predominantly Democratic but with a rich history of political engagement that shapes its policies. Religious diversity is another commonality, with both cities home to a variety of faith-based communities. However, Philadelphia stands out with its significantly larger Catholic presence, which influences local culture, festivals, and landmarks, offering a unique blend of historical and contemporary religious expression.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Philadelphia

As you consider moving from Oakland, CA to Philadelphia, PA, understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic is crucial. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Oakland & Philadelphia aims to help you navigate this transition smoothly.

OaklandPhiladelphia
29.232.8

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

76

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

87

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, but it's challengingYes, more feasible

Can you get by without car?

In moving from Oakland to Philadelphia, you'll find that both cities offer robust public transit options, though Oakland ranks slightly higher in availability. However, Philadelphia's layout and services may make it more feasible to live without a car. Oakland's commute times are on average shorter, reflecting possibly less distance but higher traffic congestion compared to Philadelphia. Yet, Philadelphia's slightly lower congestion score hints at potentially smoother traffic flows, an aspect worth considering if driving is a significant part of your daily routine.

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