Best Philadelphia to San Francisco Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Philadelphia to San Francisco Movers

Moving from the City of Brotherly Love to the Golden City is an adventure filled with exciting changes and new beginnings. You're leaving behind Philadelphia's rich historical tapestry and fervent sports culture for San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate, tech innovations, and diverse culinary scenes. To ensure this long-distance move is as smooth as possible, it's crucial to hire trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the importance of this life transition and are dedicated to connecting you with the best movers for a worry-free journey.

Pennsylvania iconArrow iconCalifornia icon

Best Philadelphia to San Francisco Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
EverSafe Moving Co.9.50A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Pineapple Movers9.44NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Bay - L.A. Express Moving9.32DAuthorized For HHGContact
banning moving9.20NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Philadelphia guide.

5 Best Philadelphia to San Francisco Moving Companies

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

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
EverSafe Moving Co. Logo
Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,941+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261303 / 771755

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Pineapple Movers Logo
Exceptional9.44/10
based on 701+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3579435 / 1208543

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
B
Exceptional9.32/10
based on 634+ data points

About Bay - L.A. Express Moving

Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in mo...Read More >>

Services

  • Long-distance moving
  • Small relocation
  • Full packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1396171 / 530464

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
b
Exceptional9.20/10
based on 437+ data points

About banning moving

Banning Moving is a professional moving company focused on providing reliable and caring services for its customers. With experienced movers...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/6/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3350149 / 1070919

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,675 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Philadelphia vs. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can feel overwhelming, especially when moving to an unknown city. To ease this transition, we've created a guide to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by comparing Philadelphia, PA & San Francisco, CA neighborhoods . Find your favorite Philadelphia neighborhood below to discover its San Francisco counterpart, offering a similar vibe and lifestyle.

PhiladelphiaSan FranciscoHow They're Similar
Rittenhouse SquarePacific HeightsUpscale living, stunning views
FishtownMission DistrictVibrant, artsy community
Northern LibertiesHayes ValleyTrendy, with boutique shops
Old CityNorth BeachRich history, lively atmosphere
University CityInner SunsetDiverse, close-knit, near universities
ManayunkNoe ValleyFamily-friendly, quaint
Center CityFinancial DistrictUrban core, bustling streets
West PhiladelphiaRichmond DistrictResidential, diverse culture
East PassyunkLower HaightEclectic food scene, vibrant
Society HillMarina DistrictPicturesque, historic homes

In exploring these neighborhoods, you may want to check out specific points of interest that underscore their similarities. For instance, Rittenhouse Square's lush parks and high-end shopping can be paralleled with Pacific Heights, where you'll find breathtaking bay views and luxury boutiques along Fillmore Street. In Fishtown and the Mission District, art lovers and foodies unite, celebrating vibrant street art, indie shops, and eclectic eateries such as La Taqueria. Meanwhile, history buffs moving from Old City will appreciate North Beach's rich past, with iconic sites like City Lights Bookstore and Washington Square. Each neighborhood offers a unique tapestry of experiences, ensuring you'll find a new home that reflects your lifestyle in San Francisco.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Philadelphia to San Francisco

Moving to a new city is a significant life event that deserves a balanced evaluation. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Philadelphia, PA to San Francisco, CA. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Higher Crime Rate
  • Harsher Winters
  • Lower Tech Salaries
  • Less Cultural Diversity
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Lower Crime Rate
  • Milder Climate
  • Higher Tech Salaries
  • More Cultural Diversity
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Higher Living Costs
  • Fewer Historical Sites
  • Expensive Housing
  • Challenging Traffic
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Lower Living Costs
  • Rich Historical Sites
  • More Affordable Housing
  • Better Public Transit

While the charts above provide a snapshot, let's delve deeper. For instance, San Francisco's neighborhood parks and green spaces, such as Golden Gate Park and the Presidio, offer unparalleled natural beauty and outdoor activities that are hard to find in urban Philadelphia. San Francisco's culinary scene is also more diverse, with numerous award-winning restaurants like The Slanted Door and Tartine Bakery, reflecting its vast cultural diversity. For tech professionals, the move could mean significantly higher salaries and opportunities in Silicon Valley's tech hub. However, it's important to consider San Francisco's high cost of living, especially in popular areas like Mission District and Nob Hill, where the housing market is notably steep. Balancing these factors is crucial in making your relocation decision.

Philadelphia vs. San Francisco Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Philadelphia & San Francisco, aiming to ease the transition for those moving by shedding light on the food scene. Food is a crucial aspect of local culture, affecting what it's like to live in an area. This comparison will help you better understand the culinary landscape awaiting you.

PhiladelphiaSan Francisco
Most iconic local food itemPhilly CheesesteakSourdough Bread
Most popular meat dishRoast Pork SandwichCioppino
Most popular street food itemPretzelsStreet Tacos
Most popular vegan foodSeitan SteakAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Reading Terminal Market
  • Pat's King of Steaks
  • Zahav
  • Tartine Bakery
  • The Slanted Door
  • Swan Oyster Depot
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Philadelphia, the iconic Philly Cheesesteak is a must-try, best enjoyed in landmarks like Pat's King of Steaks. Meanwhile, San Francisco's food scene shines with its sourdough bread and the seafood stew, Cioppino, which you can sample along Fisherman's Wharf. San Francisco also rates higher in health consciousness and vegan options, with places like Tartine Bakery pioneering in offering delicious vegan-friendly fare. The rich food truck culture in both cities serves as an excellent avenue for exploring diverse culinary offerings, though San Francisco slightly edges out with its vibrant street food scene.

Philadelphia vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a key role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison from Philadelphia, PA to San Francisco, CA will guide you in discovering your new favorite spots, using familiar flavors from your current hometown as a beacon. Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual eats, or iconic dishes, we've got you covered.

PhiladelphiaSan FranciscoWhat You'll Love
ZahavOren's HummusAuthentic Middle Eastern flavors
Reading Terminal MarketFerry Building MarketplaceVaried food vendors in a historic setting
Pizzeria BeddiaTony's Pizza NapoletanaExpertly crafted Neapolitan pizzas
LaurelAtelier CrennHigh-end French dining experience
Pat's King of SteaksRoxie Food CenterFor a classic, no-frills sandwich fix
ParcChez MamanCozy French bistro vibes
VetriAcquerelloUpscale Italian dining with a focus on quality ingredients
Franklin FountainBi-Rite CreameryArtisanal ice cream flavors
Dalessandro's SteaksOrphan Andy'sDiner-style comfort food
El VezDon Pisto'sVibrant Mexican cuisine with a fun atmosphere

When exploring the culinary landscapes of Philadelphia and San Francisco, certain spots stand out for their ability to offer a taste of home with a local twist. For instance, pizza enthusiasts who loved the experience at Pizzeria Beddia will be equally enthralled by the authentic pies at Tony's Pizza Napoletana, where attention to traditional pizza-making techniques shines through. Meanwhile, those who've enjoyed the immersive Middle Eastern dining experience at Zahav will find a similar delight in the flavors and hospitality offered at Oren's Hummus. And for those seeking the cozy comfort of French cuisine, the transition from Parc to Chez Maman promises a seamless culinary journey, highlighting the unique charm and warmth of each establishment’s approach to French dining. Each comparison not only showcases the diversity and quality of the food scenes in both cities but also underscores the thoughtful care in crafting memorable dining experiences.

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Ready to start your move?

Philadelphia vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, considering the real estate differences between Philadelphia, PA and San Francisco, CA is crucial. This comparison will help you understand how housing costs, architectural styles, and urban living parameters measure up between these two cities.

ComparisonPhiladelphiaSan Francisco
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, GeorgianVictorian, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHardwood floors, backyardViews, proximity to tech jobs

In Philadelphia, the housing market is significantly more affordable than in San Francisco, with the median home price being a fraction of what you'd expect in the Bay Area. Despite this, both cities boast high walkability scores, although San Francisco takes the lead with a perfect score, thanks to its densely populated, urban layout and vast network of pedestrian pathways. On the other hand, Philadelphia's architecture predominantly features Colonial and Georgian styles, contributing to the city's historic charm. In contrast, San Francisco is renowned for its picturesque Victorian homes and modern buildings, often highlighted by stunning views of the city and bay. Regardless of these differences, both cities offer vibrant urban lifestyles, but San Francisco's proximity to tech jobs and innovative culture gives it a distinct edge in real estate listings.

Philadelphia vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Philadelphia, PA, to San Francisco, CA, it's crucial to compare the weather to ensure you're ready for the change. Understanding how Philadelphia's climate varies from San Francisco's can help you prepare for a smoother transition.

Summer icon
87°F / 66°F

Philadelphia, PA

70°F / 55°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
40°F / 25°F

Philadelphia, PA

57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

Philadelphia, PA

23

San Francisco, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
13

Philadelphia, PA

0

San Francisco, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonPhiladelphiaSan Francisco
Air QualityGood to ModerateGood
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, HeatwavesEarthquakes, Fog
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Philadelphia to San Francisco will bring noticeable changes in weather, particularly in terms of temperature and precipitation. San Francisco enjoys milder summers and warmer winters compared to the more extreme seasonal changes in Philadelphia. With over 50 more sunny days a year, San Francisco offers an appealing climate for those who prefer less humidity and virtually no snow. However, it's important to be aware of the unique natural disaster risks, such as earthquakes, and the potential for fog-induced mold allergies. Adapting to San Francisco's climate will also mean adjusting to less annual rainfall but enjoying better overall air quality.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from Philadelphia, PA to San Francisco, CA, it's crucial to grasp the financial implications. Understanding the differences in cost of living, taxes, and average incomes between these two cities will enable you to plan your finances more effectively, making your transition smoother.

ComparisonPhiladelphiaSan Francisco
Avg. Household Income$52,899$121,826
Cost of Living Index126.5164
State Income Tax3.079.3
Avg. Property Tax0.990.73
Avg. Sales Tax88.5
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Health Services, ManufacturingTechnology, Finance, Tourism
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertySignificantLower
HomelessnessHighVery High

Moving from Philadelphia to San Francisco can be a cultural and financial shock due to the stark differences in cost of living and average incomes. While San Francisco boasts a significantly higher average household income, it also comes with a cost of living nearly 77% greater than Philadelphia. The technology, finance, and tourism industries drive its economy, making it a hub for those looking to accelerate their careers in these sectors. However, both cities grapple with homelessness, with San Francisco experiencing a more severe situation. Understanding these dynamics can help you prepare financially and mentally for the move.

Philadelphia vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison

In this comparison, we offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents moving from Philadelphia, PA to San Francisco, CA . Understanding these aspects can give you insight into the cultural and social dynamics of your new city.

PhiladelphiaSan Francisco
Political Make-upPrimarily DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsFocus on economic development, educationFocus on housing, homelessness, and environmental initiatives
ReligionChristianity dominant, diverse religious landscapeMore secular, wide range of religious practices present

When moving from Philadelphia to San Francisco, you'll find both cities share a Democratic political leaning, though San Francisco is known to be more left-leaning with a strong focus on progressive issues such as environmental sustainability and housing. San Francisco's political landscape is deeply invested in solving local issues like homelessness, which is a pressing concern for the city. The religious scene in Philadelphia has a higher prominence of Christianity and a more pronounced diversity in religious practices, while San Francisco tends to be more secular, yet still offers a broad variety of religious communities for those seeking them. This comparison gives you an initial understanding of some of the cultural and social dynamics that make each city unique.

Philadelphia vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another can dramatically change your daily routines, especially when it comes to commuting. This comparison is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Philadelphia & San Francisco, providing insights into what to expect and how to prepare for your new city life.

ComparisonPhiladelphiaSan Francisco
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3234
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible, but challengingYes, easier

When considering a move from Philadelphia to San Francisco, it's crucial to acknowledge how the respective urban environments influence commuting. In Philadelphia, though the average commute time is slightly shorter, the city experiences substantial traffic congestion. However, the public transit options aren't as robust as in San Francisco. This makes living in Philadelphia without a car more challenging but not impossible. On the flip side, San Francisco, despite higher congestion, boasts a more extensive public transit system, including the BART and Muni; this makes car-free living not only possible but often preferred by residents. The emphasis on walkability and cycling in San Francisco further enhances its appeal for those looking to escape the confines of a daily car commute.

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