Best Philadelphia to Buffalo Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Philadelphia to Buffalo and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 391 mile move from Pennsylvania to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 37 Philadelphia to Buffalo 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 $1,000 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Philadelphia compared to Buffalo. 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.

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Best Philadelphia to Buffalo Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1EverSafe Moving Co.9.519.5Authorized For Property, HHG
2Pineapple Movers9.469.62Authorized For HHG
3banning moving9.249.47Authorized For HHG
4Wayfinder Moving Services 9.058.92Authorized For HHG
5Joey Z's Moving8.928.66Active
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Philadelphia to Buffalo?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 391 miles from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY will cost on average $1,797 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Philadelphia to Buffalo move is roughly $4,298. 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$1,211300 ft³$4.04
1 Bedroom$1,797450 ft³$3.99
2 Bedrooms$2,963750 ft³$3.95
3 Bedrooms$4,2981100 ft³$3.91
4 Bedrooms$6,1841600 ft³$3.87
5+ Bedrooms$6,8811800 ft³$3.82
*Please note: These Pennsylvania to New York moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Pennsylvania & New York. 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 PA to NY mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Buffalo to Philadelphia guide.

Compare the 5 Best Philadelphia to Buffalo 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
b

banning moving

Exceptional9.24/10
based on 393+ data points

2224 Apple Way

Bensalem, PA, 19020

About banning moving

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

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

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
3
Wayfinder Moving Services  Logo

Wayfinder Moving Services

Exceptional9.05/10
based on 1,098+ data points

75 Comet Ave

Buffalo, NY, 14216

About Wayfinder Moving Services

Established in 2018, Wayfinder Moving Services has locations in both Buffalo, NY and Jamestown. As a business that specializes in...

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3104397 / 79366

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved220,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Joey Z's Moving Logo

Joey Z's Moving

Superb8.92/10
based on 188+ data points

North Tonawanda, NY, 14120

About Joey Z's Moving

Backed by over 35 years of experience, Joey Z’s Moving serves all of New York State with reliable residential and commercial...

Services

  • Home & Apartment moving
  • Senior Moves
  • Business & Office moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/9/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3348965 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
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. Buffalo Neighborhood Comparison

Moving cities can be a daunting process, particularly when it means leaving behind the familiar comforts of your neighborhood. To ease this transition, we offer a detailed comparison of the local neighborhoods between Philadelphia, PA & Buffalo, NY. By aligning the top neighborhoods from Philadelphia with their Buffalo counterparts, we aim to help you find a new community where you'll feel right at home.

PhiladelphiaBuffaloHow They're Similar
Rittenhouse SquareElmwood VillageVibrant, walkable area with shops
FishtownAllentownBustling nightlife, artsy vibe
University CityNorth BuffaloNear universities, eclectic mix of food
ManayunkSouth BuffaloClose-knit community, strong Irish heritage
Old CityBuffalo's Historic Cobblestone DistrictHistoric sites, cobblestone streets
Center CityDowntown BuffaloUrban center, cultural attractions
Northern LibertiesParksideCommunity-oriented, abundance of parks
East PassyunkKaisertownRich culinary scene, local shopping
West PhiladelphiaHamlin ParkDiverse, historical architecture
Society HillDelaware ParkAffluent, close to parks and museums

For those who thrive in the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of Rittenhouse Square with its array of shops, trendy cafes, and green spaces like Rittenhouse Square Park, you'll find a similar vibe in Elmwood Village. Elmwood Village is renowned for its walkable streets lined with boutique stores, local eateries such as Buffalo Proper, and cultural institutions like the Albright-Knox Art Gallery. Meanwhile, if the artsy, eclectic spirit of Fishtown captured your heart, with venues like the Fillmore providing a hub for music and entertainment, Allentown in Buffalo will charm you with its spirited nightlife, galleries, and annual festivals such as the Allentown Art Festival. Both cities offer unique neighborhoods that cater to a wide range of preferences, from the historical ambiance of Old City and Buffalo's Historic Cobblestone District to the urban center of Center City and Downtown Buffalo, each providing a distinct sense of community and local flavor.

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Things to Do in Buffalo

  • Explore Albright-Knox Art Gallery
  • Watch a game at Sahlen Field
  • Visit Buffalo Zoo
  • Stroll through Botanical Gardens
  • Enjoy Niagara Falls tour
  • Skate at Canalside
  • Taste wings at Anchor Bar

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Philadelphia to Buffalo

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting yet exciting process. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY . Through these comparative charts, you'll gain insight into how each city stacks up against the other, helping you make a more informed decision about your big move.

CONs
PROs
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Higher living costs
  • Denser population
  • Heavier traffic congestion
  • Hotter summers
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • More affordable housing
  • Smaller, tight-knit community
  • Less traffic
  • Cooler summers
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less culinary variety
  • Fewer historical attractions
  • More car-dependency
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse culinary scene
  • Rich historical sites
  • Better public transit

Moving from Philadelphia to Buffalo offers unique advantages such as the opportunity to enjoy a quieter, more communal lifestyle. Buffalo's smaller community and the presence of neighborhood gems like Elmwood Village and Canalside offer a close-knit, community feel that's hard to match. You'll find affordable housing options that can provide a significant cost of living reduction compared to Philadelphia. Although you might miss Philadelphia's bustling nightlife and its renowned historical sites like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Buffalo has its charm with attractions like the Albright-Knox Art Gallery and the revitalized waterfront area, ensuring you still have plenty of places to explore and enjoy.

Philadelphia vs. Buffalo Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Philadelphia & Buffalo provides insights into the food culture of both cities. Whether you’re craving a classic cheesesteak or the iconic Buffalo wings, understanding the culinary landscape is key to feeling at home in your new city.

Philadelphia
Buffalo
Most iconic local food item
Cheesesteak
Buffalo Wings
Most popular meat dish
Roast Pork Sandwich
Beef on Weck
Most popular street food item
Pretzels
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Seitan Cheesesteak
Tofu Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Pat's King of Steaks
  • Reading Terminal Market
  • Zahav
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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When you relocate to Buffalo, you’re stepping into a city with a vibrant food scene anchored by its famed Buffalo wings, which can be found at the legendary Anchor Bar, among other places. But Buffalo’s culinary prowess extends beyond just its iconic wings; the Beef on Weck, a tantalizing roast beef sandwich on a kummelweck roll, beckons at local haunts such as Gabriel's Gate, located in the historic Allentown neighborhood. For those with a flair for the contemporary, Buffalo's evolving food truck scene and burgeoning vegan options offer a taste of the city's modern culinary spirit. Among these, Tofu Wings emerge as a flavorful nod to Buffalo's culinary staple, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Philadelphia vs. Buffalo Restaurant Comparison

Finding your culinary home in a new city is vital for comfort and happiness. This carefully curated comparison between Philadelphia restaurants and their Buffalo counterparts is designed to help you quickly find new favorites reminiscent of your old haunts. From high-end dining to casual eats, let's bring a taste of home to your new adventure.

PhiladelphiaBuffaloWhat You'll Love
ZahavToutantSouthern-inspired cooking, echoing Zahav's focus on robust, regional flavors
Vernick Food & DrinkHutch'sKnown for its refined plates and upscale dining experience
Reading Terminal MarketExpo MarketDiverse food market with a comparable variety of vendors and casual eats
John's Roast PorkCharlie the ButcherOffering authentic Beef on Weck, a Buffalo classic with a focus on high-quality meats
La Colombe Coffee RoastersPublic Espresso + CoffeeArtisanal coffee shop with a focus on quality and community
Franklin FountainAnderson's Frozen CustardThough more focused on custard, they offer a nostalgic, old-fashioned dessert experience
ParcTerrapin GrilleFrench bistro-style dining with a focus on ambiance and classic dishes
El VezCantina LocoA modern twist on Mexican cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere
Pat's King of SteaksGrover's Bar & GrillFamous for burgers rather than steaks, but a local icon for meat lovers
Di Bruno Bros.Elmwood MarketSpecializing in gourmet groceries and deli items, akin to Di Bruno's varied selection

For those who have treasured the unforgettable dining experiences at Zahav, Toutant's dedication to southern cooking and ambiance will surely feel like a slice of home. The warmth and authenticity of their dishes offer a familiar comfort. Similarly, fans of the bustling and diverse atmosphere of Reading Terminal Market will find solace in Expo Market's wide-ranging food options, maintaining that lively market vibe that encourages culinary exploration. And for coffee aficionados lamenting the distance from La Colombe, Public Espresso + Coffee stands as a beacon of high-quality, artisanal coffee culture in Buffalo, ensuring your coffee ritual remains uninterrupted. Whether it's sophisticated dining, casual eats, or iconic food markets, Buffalo's culinary scene promises to welcome newcomers with open arms and delicious flavors.

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Ready to start your move?

Philadelphia vs. Buffalo Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning your move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Philadelphia, PA and Buffalo, NY highlights key housing aspects to consider, ensuring you make an informed decision tailored to your needs. Explore how these cities stack up in terms of housing costs, architecture, and urban lifestyle.

Philadelphia
Buffalo
Typical Architecture Style
Row Houses
Victorian and Craftsman
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Close to public transportation, urban amenities
Quiet neighborhoods, historic charm

In comparing housing between Philadelphia and Buffalo, it's notable that while Philadelphia might have higher median home prices and rent, it compensates with a more pronounced urban lifestyle and higher walkability and bikeability scores. Philadelphia's row houses and close proximity to urban amenities make it a bustling cityscape. Conversely, Buffalo offers a blend of Victorian and Craftsman architecture, emphasizing quieter neighborhoods with historic charm, and slightly lower scores in walkability and bikeability, hinting at a more laid-back atmosphere. The choice between the two will largely depend on your preferences between an energetic urban lifestyle and a more relaxed, historic setting.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Buffalo, NY

1. Elmwood Village : You'll love this vibrant area for its abundance of pet-friendly parks and eclectic shops that welcome your furry friends.

2. Allentown : Known for its quirky charm, Allentown offers plenty of walkable spaces and pet-friendly cafes where you and your pet can enjoy a leisurely day out.

3. North Buffalo : With its expansive Delaware Park and numerous pet-friendly community activities, North Buffalo provides ample outdoor spaces for your pet to play and socialize.

Philadelphia vs. Buffalo Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another involves adapting to new environments, especially the weather. Comparing the weather dynamics between Philadelphia and Buffalo will provide insights into what you can expect and how best to prepare for your relocation. This comparison aims to give you a clear understanding of the temperature ranges, sunshine availability, and other weather-related factors you will encounter.

Philadelphia
Buffalo
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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Natural Disasters
Thunderstorms
Snowstorms
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87°F / 66°F
80°F / 60°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

40°F / 25°F
31°F / 18°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

47"
40"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

22"
95"


Understanding the weather differences between Philadelphia and Buffalo will help you prepare for the seasonal changes after your move. Notably, Buffalo experiences a drastic increase in annual snowfall compared to Philadelphia, highlighting the need for suitable winter gear and possibly snow-resilient transportation. The lower average UV index and fewer days of sunshine in Buffalo may also influence your daily activities and mood, emphasizing the importance of engaging in both outdoor and indoor activities suited for colder, cloudier weather. Furthermore, while both cities share similar concerns over air quality and seasonal allergies, the significantly better air quality in Buffalo could be a breath of fresh air for those sensitive to pollutants.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY, comprehending the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate differences in living costs, taxation, and economic conditions you'll encounter. By highlighting the cost of living, taxation, and economic environments of Philadelphia and Buffalo, you're better equipped to manage your finances post-relocation.

Philadelphia
Buffalo
Avg. Household Income
$52,899
$40,669
Cost of Living Index
126.5
95.8
State Income Tax
3.07
3.07
Avg. Property Tax
1.399%
2.675%
Avg. Sales Tax
8%
8.75%
Top 3 Industries
Education, Health Services, Retail
Health Services, Education, Manufacturing
Affluence
Moderately affluent
Less affluent
Poverty
High
Higher
Homelessness
Significant
Notable

When moving from Philadelphia to Buffalo, you'll find significant differences in living costs and household income. While Buffalo presents a more affordable living index and lower average household income, the rate of state income tax remains constant due to state-level taxation. Property and sales taxes exhibit some variance between the two cities, potentially affecting your budgeting for housing and daily expenses. Additionally, both cities are home to robust health services and education sectors, influencing job prospects. Understanding these disparities will aid in making a financially informed decision for your relocation.

Philadelphia vs. Buffalo Political & Religious Comparison

When planning a move from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY, understanding the communities you're transitioning between is crucial. This comparison aims to provide a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of Philadelphia & Buffalo , giving you insight into the vibrant cultures and social landscapes of both cities.

Philadelphia
Buffalo
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Lean Democratic
Local Politics
Influenced by a diverse array of interest groups
Progressive with a focus on social issues
Religion
Mixed, with a strong Catholic presence (Archdiocese of Philadelphia)
Diverse, including a significant Catholic community <a href="https://www.buffalodiocese.org/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">(Diocese of Buffalo)</a>

Both Philadelphia and Buffalo share a leaning towards Democratic values at their core, underlining a collective preference for progressive policies. However, the local political landscape in Philadelphia is shaped by a wide variety of interest groups, reflecting its large, diverse population. In contrast, Buffalo's politics are notably progressive, with an emphasis on social justice that may appeal to those passionate about these issues. Religion plays a diverse role in both cities, but they each host a significant Catholic community, serving as a cultural and spiritual hub for many residents. Understanding these intricacies can make your transition smoother, allowing you to engage with your new community more effectively.

Philadelphia vs. Buffalo Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY, it's crucial to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic to better prepare for what lies ahead. This comparison between Philadelphia & Buffalo will help you gauge the transport atmosphere in both cities.

Philadelphia
Buffalo
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
32
22
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes, but depends on neighborhood
Yes, with some difficulty

Philadelphia offers a more robust public transit system compared to Buffalo, making it easier to navigate the city without a car, especially if you live and work within the city's more connected neighborhoods. The average commute time is significantly longer in Philadelphia, reflecting its larger population and denser traffic congestion. However, Buffalo's smaller size means less overall congestion, making for a quicker and often less stressful commute. Despite its lower public transit score, Buffalo's growing infrastructure and community resources are making it increasingly easier to live without a car.

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