Best Chicago to Philadelphia Movers and Practical Moving Guide
Get a Quote Now!
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
Moving from the Windy City to the City of Brotherly Love marks an adventurous leap in your life journey, blending rich histories and diverse cultures. You're trading Chicago’s deep-dish pizzas and iconic skyline for Philly's world-renowned cheesesteaks and historic cobblestone streets. Recognizing the significant distance and logistics involved in such a move, it's crucial to entrust your relocation to reliable and trusted professional movers, ensuring a smooth transition. Trust us at Great Guys Moving to connect you with the best, making your move as exciting and seamless as the adventure ahead.
Best Chicago to Philadelphia Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Philadelphia to Chicago guide.
5 Best Chicago to Philadelphia Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 >>
Services
- Local Movers
- Long-distance Movers
- Packing Services
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 >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly movi...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving c...Read More >>
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
About A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company offers ...Read More >>
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Chicago vs. Philadelphia Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but understanding the local neighborhoods can help ease the transition. In this guide, we'll ease the process by highlighting the comparison of local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Philadelphia, PA . If you're familiar with Chicago's top neighborhoods, we'll help you find the closest matches in Philadelphia, making it easier to find your new favorite spots.
| Chicago | Philadelphia | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Rittenhouse Square | Upscale living, vibrant green spaces |
| Wicker Park | Fishtown | Artsy, abundant local boutiques and cafes |
| Gold Coast | Society Hill | Historic, high-end residential area |
| Loop | Center City | Bustling business district, cultural landmarks |
| Lakeview | Washington Square West | Diverse community, close to parks |
| Andersonville | Manayunk | Strong local business scene, riverfront views |
| Hyde Park | University City | Intellectual hub, historic homes |
| Pilsen | South Philly | Vibrant multicultural communities, extensive mural arts |
| Logan Square | NoLibs (Northern Liberties) | Trendy nightlife, innovative dining scene |
| River North | Old City | Art galleries, lively nightlife, historic charm |
Embarking on the exploration of your new neighborhood is akin to stepping into a world brimming with unique cultural and social landscapes. If the historic allure and upscale residential vibe of Chicago's Gold Coast have captured your heart, Philadelphia's Society Hill stands ready to enchant you with its cobblestone streets and stately homes, echoing a rich history and vibrant community spirit. For those attracted to the artsy and boutique-filled streets of Wicker Park, Fishtown awaits with open arms, offering an eclectic mix of indie music venues, art studios, and hipster coffee shops like La Colombe. Meanwhile, the transformation from Andersonville’s tight-knit community feel can smoothly transition as you discover Manayunk, where local businesses like Volpe Design thrive amidst scenic river views, offering a cozy yet dynamic setting akin to your Chicago favorite.
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
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Philadelphia
Moving from one city to another is always a significant decision that comes with its own sets of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA . By looking into various aspects of both cities, you can better prepare for your upcoming transition.
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- Higher crime rate
- Expensive living
- Dense traffic
Philadelphia, PA- Milder winters
- Lower crime rate
- More affordable
- Less congestion
Philadelphia, PA- Quieter nightlife
- Smaller food scene
- Fewer parks
- Lesser museums
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse food scene
- Great public parks
- Extensive museums
While the thought of leaving behind Chicago's vibrant nightlife and diverse food scene might seem daunting, Philadelphia offers unique attractions of its own. Neighborhood parks like Rittenhouse Square offer a peaceful escape, while Reading Terminal Market will delight your palate with a variety of foods from local vendors. Philadelphia's rich historical sites, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, provide educational and inspiring outings. And while Chicago's museums like The Art Institute are world-renowned, The Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Franklin Institute offer impressive collections that art and science lovers alike will appreciate. This transition may come with a mix of pros and cons, but the journey towards making Philadelphia your new home will be filled with discoveries and opportunities. Reading Terminal Market, The Philadelphia Museum of Art, and The Franklin Institute are just the beginning.
Chicago vs. Philadelphia Food Guide
In deciding where to move, understanding the essence of local food scenes is crucial. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Philadelphia to enlighten you on what culinary delights await in your new city.
| Chicago | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Cheesesteak |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Roast Pork Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style Hot Dog | Pretzels |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Vegan Cheesesteak |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Embracing your new city's food can be an exciting adventure. In Chicago, the deep dish pizza is more than just a meal; it's a cultural experience, best enjoyed in locales like Lou Malnati's. The Italian beef and Chicago-style hot dogs tell stories of the city's rich history, especially found in spots like Portillo's. Philadelphia, on the other hand, offers its own culinary pride with the cheesesteak, a must-try at Pat's King of Steaks. Reading Terminal Market and Zahav give a glimpse into the varied food scene from casual to upscale dining, ensuring there's a taste for every palate. Whether you're moving to Chicago or Philadelphia, you're embarking on a flavorful journey through some of America's most iconic food landscapes.
Chicago vs. Philadelphia Restaurant Comparison
When moving from Chicago to Philadelphia, finding the right place to dine can make all the difference in feeling at home. This comparison between top Chicago restaurants and their Philadelphia counterparts will assist in discovering new favorite spots, by drawing parallels based on your old favorites.
| Chicago | Philadelphia | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Vetri Cucina | Both offer a high-end, multi-course dining experience with meticulous attention to detail. |
| Portillo's Hot Dogs | John's Roast Pork | Known for iconic sandwiches; both establishments are beloved by locals for fast but quality eats. |
| Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | Barclay Prime | Both are known for their classic steakhouse feel, serving up quality meat cuts and upscale dining. |
| Girl & The Goat | Zahav | While offering different cuisines, both restaurants are renowned for creative dishes and a vibrant atmosphere. |
| Giordano's | Pizzeria Vetri | Both are hailed for their standout approach to pizza, whether it be Chicago deep-dish or Neapolitan style. |
| The Purple Pig | Osteria | Both feature an extensive wine list and shareable, Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a cozy setting. |
| Frontera Grill | El Vez | Both are celebrated for their innovative and high-quality Mexican cuisine in lively, colorful settings. |
| Smoque BBQ | Fette Sau | Focusing on smoked meats, both spots offer a casual yet passionate take on American BBQ traditions. |
| Au Cheval | Village Whiskey | Both have garnered high praise for their gourmet burgers and upscale pub fare in a cozy setting. |
| RL Restaurant | Parc | For those seeking an elegant dining experience with a focus on American classics, both offer polished service and refined atmosphere. |
While Chicago's Alinea provides an avant-garde dining adventure, Philadelphia's Vetri Cucina mirrors this high-end experience with Italian flair, focusing on meticulous dishes that are both imaginative and rooted in tradition. On a more casual note, Portillo's renowned Chicago-style hot dogs find their match in John's Roast Pork, a Philadelphia favorite known for its award-winning sandwiches, proving that both cities excel in offering comfort food with a loyal local following. And for those nostalgic for Chicago's iconic Giordano's pizza, Pizzeria Vetri in Philadelphia offers a similar devotion to quality and tradition in their pizza-making. These comparisons not only highlight the culinary diversity and richness of both cities but also ensure you can find a slice of Chicago's food scene in your new Philadelphia neighborhood.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Philadelphia Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial factor in relocating, especially when comparing Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA . This comparison will deepen your understanding of each city's real estate landscape, highlighting housing costs, style, and livability .
| Comparison | Chicago | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Victorian | Colonial and Georgian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, proximity to parks | Historic details, downtown access |
Philadelphia and Chicago offer unique living experiences shaped by their own histories and cultures. Philadelphia's more affordable median home prices and higher walkability score reflect its dense, walkable urban core, which is a key factor for those who prioritize a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle. Chicago, while slightly more expensive in both home prices and rent, compensates with its modern and Victorian architecture and prized lake views. Both cities score high in urban lifestyle, but their distinctive features—like Philadelphia's historic details and Chicago's proximity to parks—offer different appeals depending on your personal preferences.
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.
Chicago vs. Philadelphia Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one location to another, it's crucial to consider how the weather might shift. This comparison aims to illuminate the weather differences between Chicago, IL and Philadelphia, PA , ensuring you're well-prepared for your new environment.
Chicago, IL
Philadelphia, PA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Philadelphia, PA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Philadelphia, PA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Philadelphia, PA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Cold Waves | Hurricanes, Heavy Snow |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Chicago to Philadelphia, you'll notice slight differences in weather that may influence your daily life. For instance, Philadelphia enjoys more days of sunshine and milder winters compared to Chicago, which could be a welcome change for those tired of the Windy City's harsh winters. However, both cities experience a moderate level of air quality, which might require considerations for those with certain health conditions. Additionally, understanding the seasonal allergies prevalent in each city can help you prepare better for the transition. Overall, while the weather differences are not drastic, they are significant enough to impact your lifestyle choices and well-being.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Philadelphia
When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA, understanding the financial implications—cost of living, taxes, and earnings—is crucial to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to highlight these critical differences between Chicago and Philadelphia , providing a clearer picture of what to expect.
| Comparison | Chicago | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $52,899 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 126.5 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 (flat rate) | 3.07 (flat rate) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.10 | 1.399 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 8.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | High | High |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
Moving from Chicago to Philadelphia, you'll find the average household income slightly lower in Philadelphia, but this is balanced by a marginally more affordable cost of living. Notably, Philadelphia boasts a lower state income tax rate, which could result in more take-home pay, despite the average household income difference. Additional relief comes with lower property taxes, beneficial for homeowners. However, both cities struggle with high poverty rates and significant homelessness, signaling ongoing urban challenges. Understanding these financial nuances will help you prepare for your transition between these two vibrant cities.
Chicago vs. Philadelphia Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA, understanding the political and religious makeup of residents between Chicago & Philadelphia can offer you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot. This comparison aims to give you a sense of what to expect from your potential new home.
| Chicago | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Democratic majority | Democratic majority |
| Local Politics | Progressive tendencies | Historically Democratic with strong labor influence |
| Religion | Diverse; strong Catholic presence | Religious diversity with prominent Catholic and Protestant communities |
In both Chicago and Philadelphia, you will find a Democratic majority, reflecting the cities' progressive values on a broad scale. However, Philadelphia's local politics are deeply intertwined with its historical labor movements, which can influence its political climate more distinctly than you might have experienced in Chicago. On the religious front, both cities boast a rich diversity, allowing for a seamless transition for those moving between the two. Chicago's strong Catholic presence is mirrored in Philadelphia, but with an added emphasis on Protestant communities, catering to a wide range of religious affiliations.
Chicago vs. Philadelphia Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When relocating from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA, it's important to grasp how your daily commute could change. This guide is designed to give you a clearer picture by comparing the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Philadelphia, helping you better understand what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Chicago | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 32 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Yes, but less convenient than Chicago |
In both cities, you can find your daily commute to be somewhat similar in duration, but there are notable differences. Chicago's public transit system, ranked higher in availability, features the extensive L train system and a wide-reaching bus network. This makes getting around without a car more feasible in Chicago compared to Philadelphia, where the SEPTA network, while extensive, doesn't quite match the convenience and reach of Chicago's options. Traffic congestion in Chicago is slightly higher, reflecting its larger population and denser urban core. Understand these differences will help you adapt your commuting habits in Philadelphia.
Popular Moving Routes
Nearby Moving Routes
