Best Philadelphia to Columbus Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Philadelphia to Columbus and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 469 mile move from Pennsylvania to Ohio go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 53 Philadelphia to Columbus 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 Blue Men Moving LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Philadelphia compared to Columbus. 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 Columbus Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Blue Men Moving LLC9.579.71Authorized For Property, HHG
2EverSafe Moving Co.9.519.5Authorized For Property, HHG
3Pineapple Movers9.469.62Authorized For HHG
4banning moving9.249.47Authorized For HHG
5Manifest Shipping Llc9.229.35Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 469 miles from Philadelphia, PA to Columbus, OH will cost on average $2,180 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Philadelphia to Columbus move is roughly $5,219. 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$1,468300 ft³$4.89
1 Bedroom$2,180450 ft³$4.84
2 Bedrooms$3,596750 ft³$4.79
3 Bedrooms$5,2191100 ft³$4.74
4 Bedrooms$7,5111600 ft³$4.69
5+ Bedrooms$8,3601800 ft³$4.64
*Please note: These Pennsylvania to Ohio moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Pennsylvania & Ohio. 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 OH mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Columbus to Philadelphia guide.

Compare the 5 Best Philadelphia to Columbus Movers

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

Blue Men Moving LLC Logo

Blue Men Moving LLC

Exceptional9.57/10
based on 1,119+ data points

10445 Blacklick-Eastern Rd NW

Pickerington, OH, 43147

About Blue Men Moving LLC

With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3544037 / 1184394

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved78,500 (2022)
View Full Review
1
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
2
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
3
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
4
Manifest Shipping Llc Logo

Manifest Shipping Llc

Exceptional9.22/10
based on 429+ data points

501 Southwick Pl

Trenton, OH, 45067

About Manifest Shipping Llc

Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3050908 / 49758

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved46,740 (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. Columbus Neighborhood Comparison

When contemplating a move from Philadelphia, PA to Columbus, OH, navigating the new city's neighborhoods can be challenging. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Philadelphia, PA & Columbus, OH. This guide aims to match you with a neighborhood in Columbus that shares the vibe and community feel of your favorite Philadelphia locale.

PhiladelphiaColumbusHow They're Similar
Rittenhouse SquareShort Northvibrant nightlife, arts
FishtownItalian Villagetrendy bars, art scene
Northern LibertiesGerman Villagehistoric homes, walkable streets
Center CityDowntown Columbusurban living, shopping
University CityClintonvilleacademic presence, diverse community
East PassyunkGrandview Heightsfoodie paradise, boutiques
ManayunkBrewery Districtriverside dining, entertainment
Chestnut HillBexleyaffluent, historic architecture
West PhiladelphiaFranklintoncreative spaces, community events
Old CityVictorian Villagecharming, historically rich

For those moving from Philadelphia's vibrant Rittenhouse Square, known for its upscale dining and active nightlife, Columbus's Short North will feel like home with its bustling art scene and energetic nightlife. If the historic charm and cobblestone streets of Northern Liberties captured your heart, then German Village in Columbus, with its preserved brick houses and quaint shops, will enchant you. Fans of Philadelphia's University City, teeming with academic life and cultural diversity, will find a similar spirit in Clintonville, Columbus—home to an eclectic mix of students, artists, and families. Transitioning between cities doesn't mean leaving behind the neighborhood traits you've grown to love; Columbus offers a tapestry of communities mirroring the rich urban life of Philadelphia.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Philadelphia to Columbus

Moving cities is a big step that requires weighing the positives against the drawbacks. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Philadelphia, PA to Columbus, OH, ensuring you can make an informed decision. Through comparative charts, we highlight the aspects where each city shines and where it might fall short, tailoring the analysis to your unique moving journey.

CONs
PROs
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Higher crime rate
  • Costly housing
  • Heavy traffic
  • Colder winters
Columbus, OH iconColumbus, OH
  • Lower crime rate
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • Milder winters
Columbus, OH iconColumbus, OH
  • Less historic
  • Less public transit
  • Less variety in food
  • Quieter nightlife
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Richer history
  • Better public transit
  • More diverse cuisine
  • Vibrant nightlife

When moving from Philadelphia's bustling streets to Columbus's laid-back vibe, you'll notice several key differences. Philadelphia, known for its rich historical sites like Independence Hall and the vibrant Italian Market, boasts a unique blend of history and modernity that's hard to match. Columbus, on the other hand, offers a different charm with places like the Scioto Mile and the bustling Short North Arts District, catering to those seeking a balance between city living and accessible green spaces. While you might miss Philly's iconic cheesesteaks, Columbus tempts with its own culinary scene, highlighted by Midwest hospitality and innovative chefs. Moreover, the transition from Philly's dense traffic to Columbus’s more navigable streets could be a welcome change, making your commute and leisure drives more pleasant.

Philadelphia vs. Columbus Food Guide

When considering a move, it's essential to dive into what makes each area unique, including the culinary scene. Food is an integral part of local culture and life's enjoyment. In this guide, we'll provide a comparison of the local cuisine between Philadelphia & Columbus to help you understand the vibrant food scene awaiting you in your new city.

Philadelphia
Columbus
Most iconic local food item
Cheesesteak
Buckeye candy
Most popular meat dish
Rojas
Smoked Brisket
Most popular street food item
Pretzel
Taco trucks
Most popular vegan food
Seitan Cheesesteak
Jackfruit BBQ
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Schmidt’s Sausage Haus
  • North Market
  • Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Philadelphia, the cheesesteak reigns supreme, found in classic spots like Pat’s King of Steaks. But for those heading to Columbus, get ready to indulge in Buckeye candy, a peanut butter and chocolate delight symbolic of Ohio. While both cities boast a vibrant food scene, Columbus shines with its food truck culture, especially with taco trucks dotted across the city. Health and vegan options are readily available in both cities, with Philadelphia's seitan cheesesteak and Columbus's jackfruit BBQ leading the way. Columbus's North Market is a culinary hub that's not to be missed, offering a variety of local and international cuisines right at your fingertips.

Philadelphia vs. Columbus Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial part in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition from Philadelphia, PA to Columbus, OH by matching your culinary favorites to new discoveries in your upcoming hometown. Whether you're craving sophisticated dining or a casual bite, this guide will help you find your new go-to spots.

PhiladelphiaColumbusWhat You'll Love
ZahavService BarUpscale ambience with creative dishes
Reading Terminal MarketNorth MarketDiverse food stalls and local produce
ParcBrassicaCasual yet sophisticated dining experience
Dim Sum HouseTommy's DinerTraditional comfort food with a local twist
Pat's King of SteaksThurman CafeIconic for hefty burgers and a local vibe
Franklin FountainJeni's Splendid Ice CreamsRenowned for unique flavors
VedgePortia's CaféVegan-friendly with a culinary flair
El VezCondado TacosVibrant atmosphere and inventive tacos
La ColombeStauf's Coffee RoastersCozy ambiance, expertly crafted coffee
Vetri CucinaVeritasExceptional dining showcasing local ingredients

Exploring the culinary landscapes of Philadelphia and Columbus reveals a rich tapestry of flavors designed to satisfy any palate. Service Bar in Columbus mirrors Zahav's inventive approach to modern cuisine, focusing on both the aesthetic and taste of each dish, making it a must-visit for foodies. For a more casual yet equally memorable dining experience, Brassica's lively atmosphere and mouth-watering dishes provide a reminiscence of Parc's charm but with its unique twist. And for those missing the iconic tastes of Philadelphia, Thurman Cafe's hearty burgers in Columbus offer comfort and a taste of home. Each Columbus establishment not only parallels but also celebrates its own identity, inviting you to explore new culinary journeys while cherishing the flavors you've always loved.

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Ready to start your move?

Philadelphia vs. Columbus Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a crucial role when planning a move, making it essential to understand how Philadelphia, PA and Columbus, OH compare in terms of housing. This comparison delves into various facets such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities to provide a well-rounded perspective.

Philadelphia
Columbus
Typical Architecture Style
Row Houses
Ranch/Craftsman
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to public transport, Historic charm
Spacious yards, Suburban comfort

When comparing housing between Philadelphia and Columbus, it's evident that both cities cater to differing preferences and lifestyles. Philadelphia, with its historic row houses and higher walkability score, offers an urban lifestyle rich in cultural heritage. Its real estate listings frequently highlight proximity to public transport and the city's historic charm. Conversely, Columbus embraces a more suburban flavor, with its architecture leaning towards spacious Ranch or Craftsman styles, accompanied by sizable yards. Here, the value is placed on comfort and space, balancing urban accessibility with a touch of suburban tranquility. This makes Columbus an attractive option for those seeking a quieter lifestyle without straying too far from urban conveniences.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Columbus, OH

1. German Village : This charming, historic neighborhood offers plenty of green spaces and brick-paved streets ideal for pleasant walks with your furry friends.

2. Short North : Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this neighborhood provides numerous pet-friendly cafes and stores, making it a great area to explore with your pet.

3. Clintonville : With its generous parks and community focus, Clintonville is perfect for pet owners seeking a neighborhood with ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

Philadelphia vs. Columbus Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Philadelphia, PA to Columbus, OH, it's crucial to compare the climates of your current and future homes. Understanding the differences in weather, including avg summer and winter temperatures, sunshine days, and annual rainfall, will help you anticipate changes in your lifestyle and wardrobe needs. This comparison between Philadelphia and Columbus ensures you won’t be caught off guard by your new city's weather patterns.

Philadelphia
Columbus
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Storms, Floods
Storms, Tornadoes
Air Quality
Moderate
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87°F / 68°F
85°F / 65°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

40°F / 26°F
37°F / 22°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

47"
39"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

22"
28"


In both Philadelphia and Columbus, you’ll experience all four seasons, but Columbus tends to have colder winters with more snowfall—an important consideration for your winter preparations. Philadelphia enjoys more days of sunshine annually, which can affect mood and outdoor activities. Although both cities have moderate air quality, it's pivotal to consider potential asthma or allergy issues, especially since both list pollen and mold as top allergens. Paying attention to these weather factors will ensure a smoother transition to your new city.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, understanding how your financial situation might change is crucial. This comparison aims to equip you with key insights about the cost of living and financial health indicators between Philadelphia, PA and Columbus, OH .

Philadelphia
Columbus
Avg. Household Income
$52,899
$58,202
Cost of Living Index
126.5
92
State Income Tax
3.07
1.98 - 4.997
Avg. Property Tax
0.98
1.56
Avg. Sales Tax
8%
7.5%
Top 3 Industries
Education, Health Services, Professional and Business Services
Government, Education and Health Services, Trade, Transportation, and Utilities
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
High
Moderate
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

In moving from Philadelphia to Columbus, you'll find key financial differences that may impact your lifestyle. Columbus presents a lower cost of living index, making it generally more affordable in terms of everyday expenses. The average household income is also slightly higher in Columbus, which, when combined with lower costs, could enhance your financial well-being. State income tax rates in Ohio vary more widely than Pennsylvania's flat rate, which might affect you differently depending on your specific income brackets. Furthermore, Columbus's lower average sales tax could mean savings on purchased goods. However, higher average property taxes could balance this advantage depending on your housing choices.

Philadelphia vs. Columbus Political & Religious Comparison

This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to compare the politics between Philadelphia & Columbus and the religious makeup of their residents, helping you understand the community you're moving into.

Philadelphia
Columbus
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Lean Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive Policies
Moderate with a Progressive Trend
Religion
Christianity Dominant,<br/>Diverse Religious Community
Christianity Dominant,<br/>Varied Religious Representation

While both cities tend to lean Democratic in their political makeup, Philadelphia has been known for its more progressive policies, particularly in recent elections. Columbus, although also leaning Democratic, typically espouses more moderate views with an emerging progressive trend, reflecting its diverse and fast-growing population. Religious life in both cities is primarily dominated by Christianity but boasts a rich tapestry of faiths. Notably, both cities host vibrant communities representing a broad spectrum of religious beliefs, with institutions and churches in Philadelphia and Columbus Philadelphia Churches and Columbus Churches playing key roles in community life.

Philadelphia vs. Columbus Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When considering a move from Philadelphia, PA to Columbus, OH, it's pivotal to understand the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Philadelphia & Columbus will give you a comprehensive insight, easing your transition.

Philadelphia
Columbus
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
32
23
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes, with some difficulty.
No, having a car is almost essential.

In Philadelphia, the availability of public transit like the SEPTA system allows residents some flexibility in choosing not to own a car, although it may come with some difficulty due to the city's vastness. On the other hand, Columbus harbors a more car-dependent lifestyle, reflected in its lower traffic congestion scores and shorter average commute times. The reliance on automobiles in Columbus stems from the more sprawling urban layout and less dense public transit options compared to Philadelphia. This change may require adjustments in budgeting for transportation costs, including potential car payments, insurance, and maintenance.

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