Best San Jose to Philadelphia Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Interstate MoversChevron RightCaliforniaChevron RightSan JoseChevron RightSan Jose to Philadelphia

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from San Jose to Philadelphia and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,918 mile move from California to Pennsylvania go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 45 San Jose to Philadelphia moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is EverSafe Moving Co.), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Jose compared to Philadelphia. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best San Jose to Philadelphia Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best San Jose to Philadelphia Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1EverSafe Moving Co.9.519.5Authorized For Property, HHG
2Pineapple Movers9.469.62Authorized For HHG
3D&L Movers9.359.36Active
4Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHG
5Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC9.269.14Active
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from San Jose to Philadelphia?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,918 miles from San Jose, CA to Philadelphia, PA will cost on average $4,263 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Philadelphia move is roughly $10,310. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,857300 ft³$9.52
1 Bedroom$4,263450 ft³$9.47
2 Bedrooms$7,067750 ft³$9.42
3 Bedrooms$10,3101100 ft³$9.37
4 Bedrooms$14,9161600 ft³$9.32
5+ Bedrooms$16,6911800 ft³$9.27
*Please note: These California to Pennsylvania moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Pennsylvania. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to PA mover.
California iconArrow iconPennsylvania icon
U-turn icon

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

Compare the 5 Best San Jose to Philadelphia Movers

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

EverSafe Moving Co. Logo

EverSafe Moving Co.

Exceptional9.51/10
based on 2,789+ data points

8701 Torresdale Ave

Philadelphia, PA, 19136

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...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long-distance Movers
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

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
1
Pineapple Movers Logo

Pineapple Movers

Exceptional9.46/10
based on 667+ data points

Collingswood, NJ, 08108

About Pineapple Movers

Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2023, they...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

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
2
D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 1,583+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
3
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,143+ data points

3641 Haven Ave C

Menlo Park, CA, 94025

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC Logo

Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,646+ data points

San Carlos, CA, 94070

About Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC

Whether you're moving to the next street or city, Joshua's Moving, Packing & Storage offers worry-free relocation services within California. Located...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3184868 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved250,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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.

San Jose vs. Philadelphia Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To help bridge the gap, we've created a comparison between San Jose, CA & Philadelphia, PA neighborhoods , providing you with a baseline to find your next favorite spot similar to your current locale. Whether you're looking for vibrant nightlife, serene parks, or cultural hotspots, this guide aims to make your transition as smooth as possible.

San JosePhiladelphiaHow They're Similar
Willow GlenChestnut HillHistoric charm, community feel
Downtown San JoseCenter CityUrban core, vibrant nightlife
Almaden ValleyRoxboroughFamily-friendly, near parks
Silver CreekSociety HillUpscale living, historic sites
JapantownOld CityRich history, diverse restaurants
Rose GardenFairmountCultural institutions, green spaces
Cambrian ParkManayunkLively dining scene, unique shops
Los GatosRittenhouse SquareUpscale, vibrant social scene
SaratogaWashington Square WestQuiet, leafy streets
EvergreenEast FallsNatural beauty, community vibe

Exploring neighborhoods like Chestnut Hill and Society Hill will make San Jose transplants feel right at home in Philadelphia. Chestnut Hill’s Germantown Avenue, comparable to Willow Glen's Lincoln Avenue, is a bustling street filled with charming shops and local eateries, such as the cozy Cake & The City Pastry for the sweet-toothed. For those who delight in both the historic and modern urban appeal of Downtown San Jose, Center City Philadelphia offers a similar blend with its skyline views and vibrant social scene, exemplified by the iconic Reading Terminal Market, a haven for food lovers. The transition to Philadelphia is sweetened by discovering neighborhoods that echo the warmth and community spirit of those in San Jose, making you feel right at home in no time.

Things To Do background image

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 San Jose to Philadelphia

Moving from one city to another can be a significant life change that comes with its own set of challenges and benefits. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Jose, CA to Philadelphia, PA. By examining pros and cons side by side, you can get a clearer picture of what to expect and how to prepare for your new life in a different city.

CONs
PROs
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • High living costs
  • Severe traffic
  • Less historical sites
  • Less seasonal weather
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • More affordable
  • Manageable commute
  • Rich history
  • Distinct seasons
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Less tech opportunities
  • Harsh winters
  • Fewer outdoor options
  • Smaller food scene
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Technological hub
  • Mild weather
  • Outdoor activities
  • Diverse cuisine

Moving from San Jose to Philadelphia, you'll exchange the fast-paced, technology-driven lifestyle for a city steeped in American history and culture. In Philadelphia, the cost of living is more manageable, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle. Prepare to embrace the charm of seasonal weather, which brings the beauty of fall foliage and snowy winters. Not to be missed are historical sites like the Independence National Historical Park and the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art. While San Jose is known for its outdoor activities and diverse food scene, Philadelphia counters with its rich culinary traditions, showcased in spots like the bustling Reading Terminal Market. Despite fewer tech opportunities compared to San Jose, Philly’s vibrant culture and more affordable living offer a compelling trade-off.

San Jose vs. Philadelphia Food Guide

As you consider relocating, it's key to understand that food is an integral part of local culture and the living experience in a new city. In this guide, we will compare the local cuisine between San Jose & Philadelphia to help you get a taste of what awaits in your new home.

San Jose
Philadelphia
Most iconic local food item
Pho
Philly Cheesesteak
Most popular meat dish
Banh Mi
Roast Pork Sandwich
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Pretzels
Most popular vegan food
Vegetable Pho
Seitan Steak
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Original Joe's
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • Manresa
  • Pat's King of Steaks
  • Reading Terminal Market
  • Zahav
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Philadelphia, the legendary Philly Cheesesteak is just the beginning of a rich culinary adventure. Neighborhoods like Fishtown and East Passyunk Avenue offer vibrant food scenes where innovative dishes and classic comforts coexist. Reading Terminal Market is a must-visit for food lovers, offering an array of local and international delicacies, from Amish baked goods to authentic Philly Roast Pork Sandwiches. For those seeking plant-based options, the city's vegan scene is thriving, with places like V Street offering creative takes on vegan cuisine. Whether you're indulging in the iconic Philly Cheesesteak at Pat's King of Steaks or exploring the rich variety of street foods, Philadelphia's diverse culinary landscape promises delight at every turn.

San Jose vs. Philadelphia Restaurant Comparison

Understanding the importance of food in making a new city feel like home, this comparison aims to transform your move from San Jose to Philadelphia by aligning your culinary preferences. By using familiar restaurants as a baseline, you're sure to find your next favorite spot for dining out or special occasions in your new city.

San JosePhiladelphiaWhat You'll Love
Le PapillonVetri CucinaBoth offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on fine ingredients and exquisite presentation.
Original Joe'sParcSimilar classic, comfortable atmosphere with hearty American and Italian dishes.
La Foret RestaurantTalula’s GardenBoth renowned for a charming, rustic setting and a menu that emphasizes seasonal, local ingredients.
Falafel's Drive-InGoldieFor those seeking vegan-friendly, quality falafel in a casual setting reminiscent of this San Jose staple.
Dia de PescaSurayaBoth offer a memorable take on seafood with their unique flavors and fresh ingredients.
ManresaForkInnovative, high-end dining experiences that highlight the best of local farm-to-table ingredients.
Aqui Cal-MexEl VezBringing vibrant, flavorful Mexican dishes in a quirky and fun atmosphere similar to Aqui Cal-Mex.
Vung Tau RestaurantPho 75While more focused on Vietnamese pho, it offers an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine akin to what you'd find at Vung Tau.
Santouka RamenTerakawa RamenBoth spots are celebrated for their authentic, richly flavored broth and perfectly cooked noodles.
Henry's World Famous Hi-LifeFette SauFor a comparable barbecue experience, offering a selection of smoked meats that reminds one of Henry's.

When the craving for sophisticated Italian cuisine hits, Vetri Cucina in Philadelphia offers an experience akin to Le Papillon, with both establishments emphasizing the art of fine dining through meticulously crafted dishes. On the more casual side, Goldie's vegan falafel and shakes offer a delightful alternative mirroring Falafel's Drive-In's fast-casual vibe, allowing for a seamless transition in your culinary explorations. Moreover, the transition from the cherished ramen bowls of Santouka Ramen to Terakawa Ramen signifies not just a change in location but a continued adventure in the world of authentic Japanese cuisine, with both venues embodying the essence of traditional ramen with a contemporary twist. These parallel experiences ensure that your palate's preferences are catered to, easing the transition from San Jose to Philadelphia.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

San Jose vs. Philadelphia Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial to navigating your options in San Jose and Philadelphia. This comparison aims to provide a snapshot of what you can expect from the housing market, including costs, architecture, and lifestyle.

San Jose
Philadelphia
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Ranch
Colonial and Victorian
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious layouts, modern amenities
Historic details, accessibility to public transit

In San Jose, the housing market leans towards modern and ranch-style homes, reflecting the city's recent developmental boom and tech-oriented lifestyle. On the other hand, Philadelphia's real estate cherishes its American history, with Colonial and Victorian houses dotting the landscape. The differences in median home price and rent reflect the contrasting cost of living, with San Jose being significantly more expensive. However, what Philadelphia offers in spades is strong urban appeal, with a higher walkability and access to public transit, making it an attractive option for those who prefer a city-centric lifestyle without the Silicon Valley price tag.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Philadelphia, PA

1. Fishtown : You’ll love the abundance of parks and pet-friendly cafes that make it easy to enjoy outings with your furry friend.

2. Fairmount : You can enjoy long walks with your pet along the scenic Schuylkill River Trail and explore numerous dog-friendly establishments.

3. Queen Village : You'll appreciate the neighborhood's welcoming green spaces and numerous pet-friendly businesses dedicated to making life enjoyable for pet owners.

San Jose vs. Philadelphia Weather Considerations

When planning a move from San Jose, CA to Philadelphia, PA, it's essential to grasp how the weather compares to your current environment. Understanding San Jose's mild climate versus Philadelphia's distinct seasons will help you adjust more comfortably to your new home.

San Jose
Philadelphia
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes
Snowstorms, Hurricanes
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82°F / 57°F
87°F / 68°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

58°F / 42°F
40°F / 25°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

15.82"
41.5"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0"
22.4"


While San Jose offers a mild, dry climate with significant sunshine, Philadelphia experiences a wider range of temperatures and more seasonal variation, including humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Notably, Philadelphia's higher humidity and annual rainfall contribute to its lush, green landscapes in contrast to San Jose's more arid environment. Make sure you're prepared for these changes, from updating your wardrobe to adjusting your home's heating and cooling systems.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning to move, comparing the financial aspects between your current and future locations is crucial. This helps you grasp the changes in cost of living and economic environment between San Jose and Philadelphia . Understanding these differences ensures a smoother transition and better financial planning for your new life.

San Jose
Philadelphia
Avg. Household Income
$126,377
$52,899
Cost of Living Index
156.1
126.5
State Income Tax
13.3%
3.07%
Avg. Property Tax
0.79%
1.399%
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25%
8%
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Healthcare, Education
Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing
Affluence
Very high
Moderate
Poverty
Low
High
Homelessness
Noticeable
Significant

While both San Jose and Philadelphia offer unique opportunities, the financial landscape differs greatly. San Jose boasts a high average household income, reflective of its cost of living and strong tech-driven economy. However, state income tax is significantly higher than in Philadelphia. The latter, while having a lower average income, offers a more accessible cost of living and lower state income tax, appealing to those seeking a more affordable lifestyle. Transitioning from the affluent economic environment of San Jose to Philadelphia's diverse economic base, which includes strong healthcare and education sectors, may present more opportunities for economic integration and diverse job markets.

San Jose vs. Philadelphia Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from San Jose, CA to Philadelphia, PA brings significant changes in many aspects of life, including the communities you'll be joining. This quick guide offers an at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand the comparison of the politics between San Jose & Philadelphia , as well as the religious makeup of each city’s residents.

San Jose
Philadelphia
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democratic
Liberal/Democratic
Local Politics
Focus on tech industry regulations and housing
Emphasis on education, public health, and safety
Religion
Diverse; includes Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism
Primarily Christian, with a significant presence of Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities

Both San Jose and Philadelphia lean liberal politically, reflecting a Democratic majority among their residents. This similarity might be comforting, but the focus of local politics can vary widely. San Jose’s political scene is heavily influenced by its status as a tech hub, with considerable debate around tech industry regulations and housing costs. Alternatively, Philadelphia's local government places a higher emphasis on education, public health, and public safety initiatives. Religiously, you'll find diversity in both cities. San Jose is home to a wide range of faith communities, including significant Buddhism and Hinduism followers, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. Philadelphia, while predominantly Christian, boasts a well-established Jewish community and growing Muslim and Buddhist populations, offering a kaleidoscope of religious experiences and places of worship such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art for cultural exploration.

San Jose vs. Philadelphia Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This comparison between San Jose and Philadelphia will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, making your transition smoother as you move from one city to the other.

San Jose
Philadelphia
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
32
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
It's challenging
Yes, with some planning

When considering a move from San Jose to Philadelphia, you'll notice a contrast in both cities' approach to transportation and commuting. While the average commute times are fairly similar, Philadelphia edges out with a slightly better traffic congestion score and higher public transit availability. This difference signifies that you might find navigating Philadelphia without a car more feasible, especially with the city's extensive SEPTA network, compared to the more car-reliant lifestyle in San Jose. Adapting to Philadelphia's transportation could lead to a more flexible and potentially car-free lifestyle, depending on your location within the city.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best San Jose to Philadelphia Movers Featured Image