If you're moving from Chicago to Philadelphia, you already know the basics: it's 759 miles, it's solidly interstate territory, and you're heading toward a noticeably cheaper city. What you probably don't know yet is which movers can actually handle this route well, what the move realistically costs at your home size, and which Philadelphia neighborhoods are worth a second look.
This guide covers all three. I'll start with the top-rated Chicago movers for this run, get into real numbers by move size, and then break down what life in Philadelphia actually looks like compared to Chicago — not just the headline cost-of-living figure, but the line items that actually change your monthly budget.
Highly Rated Local Moving Companies for Chicago to Philadelphia Moves
This route sits in an awkward middle ground — long enough that pure locals won't touch it, but not a marquee corridor where the big nationals put their best crews. Finding a solid mover takes some work. I looked at Chicago-based operators with documented interstate experience and sorted by verified customer feedback across hundreds of data points. These five came out on top for the long-distance move from Chicago to Philadelphia.
- H2H Movers Inc — 4.72 / 5
- Alliance Moving & Storage — 4.72 / 5
- New City Moving — 4.66 / 5
- The Professionals Moving Specialists — 4.64 / 5
- STI Moving & Storage Inc. — 4.72 / 5
If you'd rather jump straight to pricing, use our moving cost calculator to get a baseline estimate before you start calling anyone.
For those who want a vetted national carrier rather than a Chicago-based operator for this haul, Safe Ship Moving is one of the interstate specialists I consistently recommend — worth getting a quote from alongside the local options below.
H2H Movers Inc
4250 N Marine Dr, Chicago, IL 60613
- Rating: 4.7 / 5
- Yelp reviews — 412 reviews
- Google reviews — 1,556 reviews
- BBB profile — Grade A+
88% positive | 9% negative
H2H is the kind of mover that performs well when it matters. Out of 640 verified reviews, 88% are positive — above average for this industry, which skews heavily toward complaints. Customers consistently highlight efficient crews, careful handling, and pricing that comes in at or below the quoted estimate. Movers show up on time, often finish ahead of schedule, and don't manufacture chaos on what's already a stressful day.
Where things get messy: unexpected charges, occasional item damage, and slow claims resolution are the recurring friction points. Not dealbreakers — those same issues show up across most movers — but worth knowing going in. Confirm your quote in writing and ask specifically about their damage claims process before signing anything.
State license: 184599 | DOT #: 2428328 | In business: 10 years
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, crane vans, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes. Accepts cash and credit card; deposit required.
Phone: (773) 236-8797
Alliance Moving & Storage
3201 Tollview Drive, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
- Rating: 4.7 / 5
- Yelp reviews — 25 reviews
- Google reviews — 33 reviews
- BBB profile — Grade A+
96% positive | 5% negative
That 96% positive rate across 247 verified reviews is the highest on this list — and it holds up when you read the specifics. Speed, professionalism, transparent pricing, and quick scheduling are the themes customers return to again and again. Crews handle belongings carefully and communicate throughout the process.
The minority of negative reviews describe last-minute price increases and difficulty reaching the company after problems arose. The fix is straightforward: get your final price confirmed in writing before a single thing gets loaded. That one step eliminates most of the disputes reviewers describe.
State license: 214845 | DOT #: 2882675 | In business: 9 years
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes. Accepts cash and credit card.
Phone: (847) 378-4949
New City Moving
2929 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
- Rating: 4.6 / 5
- Yelp reviews — 1,194 reviews
- Google reviews — 2,393 reviews
- BBB profile — Grade A+
92% positive | 6% negative
New City has one of the largest review footprints of any Chicago mover — 1,451 data points — and 92.4% of them are positive. That's a meaningful sample size. The praise is consistent: fast crews, professional attitude, careful handling, clear communication. Affordability comes up often.
Where things go sideways: item damage, billing surprises, and slow complaint resolution account for the 6% negative. New City isn't unique in this, but when you're doing the volume they do, the absolute number of unhappy customers is higher than smaller operations. For most people, this is a solid pick. For moves with irreplaceable or high-value items, ask specifically how their claims process works before you commit.
State license: 158051 | DOT #: 3078026 | In business: 16 years | Also operates as: Windy City Moving, Inc.
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing. Accepts cash and credit card; deposit required.
Phone: (773) 489-0600
The Professionals Moving Specialists
3918 N Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60618
- Rating: 4.6 / 5
- Yelp reviews — 1,064 reviews
- Google reviews — 3,993 reviews
- BBB profile — Grade A+
93% positive | 6% negative
With 1,349 verified reviews at 92.5% positive, The Professionals carry an earned reputation for reliability. On-time arrivals, fast completion, careful handling, and fair pricing are the recurring themes. Damage incidents come up less frequently than at most competitors — which matters a lot on a 759-mile haul.
Complaints cluster around final charges running higher than estimates — usually extra materials or time — and occasional item damage. Manageable concerns if you nail down the quote upfront. Twenty years in the business means they've worked this kind of interstate route before and know what it involves.
State license: 136144 | DOT #: 3383907 | In business: 20 years
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes. Accepts money order, cash, and credit card.
Phone: (888) 225-7351
STI Moving & Storage Inc.
7400 Niles Center Rd, Skokie, IL 60077
- Rating: 4.7 / 5
- Yelp reviews — 425 reviews
- Google reviews — 1,080 reviews
- BBB profile — Grade A+
68% positive | 29% negative
I'll be straight with you: the 4.7-star average here looks better than the underlying data. Dig into the review breakdown and 29% of STI's feedback is negative — meaningfully higher than any other company on this list. The positive reviews are real: fast crews, friendly staff, organized packing, good communication. But the negatives concentrate on item damage, delayed deliveries on long-distance moves, and billing surprises — exactly the pain points you don't want on a 759-mile haul.
STI has 20 years in business and a broad service menu. If you go this route, read their long-distance delivery and damage policies carefully before you sign anything, and get timeline commitments in writing.
State license: 139020 | Hourly rate: ~$150/hr | DOT #: 1308599 | In business: 20 years
Services: Local and interstate moves, packing/unpacking, offices, pianos, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, crane vans, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing. Accepts cash and credit card; deposit required.
Phone: (847) 675-1223
How Much Does It Cost to Move from Chicago to Philadelphia?
Illinois movers average around $113 per hour for local labor, but on a 759-mile interstate move, you're not paying by the hour — you're paying by weight, distance, and services. Here's what that translates to across move sizes and methods.
| Move size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,051 – $3,588 | $732 – $1,722 | $492 – $1,003 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,195 – $5,136 | $1,279 – $2,614 | $558 – $1,088 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,452 – $7,020 | $1,819 – $3,238 | $707 – $1,430 |
Estimated ranges for the Chicago to Philadelphia route (759 miles) based on MoveFinders data as of January 2026, compiled from verified price points updated monthly. Your actual cost will vary by volume, services selected, parking and access constraints, fuel prices, and timing. Compare quotes from multiple movers before committing.
Cost to Hire Movers from Chicago to Philadelphia
For a studio or one-bedroom, expect to pay $1,051–$3,588 for a full-service mover. A two- to three-bedroom home runs $2,195–$5,136. Four or more bedrooms lands in the $3,452–$7,020 range.
The wide spread within each tier comes down to timing, specific add-on services, and how aggressively you shop. Get at least three quotes on a move this size — it's non-negotiable. The difference between the first quote and the third is often significant.
Cost of Moving Containers from Chicago to Philadelphia
Moving containers give you more flexibility than a rental truck without the full-service price tag. You pack and load on your schedule; the container company handles transportation. Studio and one-bedroom moves run $732–$1,722. Two to three bedrooms: $1,279–$2,614. Larger homes with four or more bedrooms: $1,819–$3,238.
The trade-off is that you're doing the physical work, and delivery windows can be less predictable than a dedicated moving truck.
Cost of Moving Truck Rentals from Chicago to Philadelphia
A rental truck is the cheapest option on paper, but you're driving nearly 800 miles and handling all the loading and unloading yourself. If that math works for you: a studio or one-bedroom runs $492–$1,003, two to three bedrooms is $558–$1,088, and a four-plus bedroom home costs $707–$1,430. Fuel estimates are included in those ranges.
Factors That Affect Moving Costs from Chicago to Philadelphia
Three variables move the needle most:
- How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move might come in around $1,852 all-in; a full four-bedroom haul can push toward $6,453.
- When you move: Summer is peak season for Chicago movers. Rates drop in fall, spring, and especially winter.
- Which method you use: Truck rental ($492–$1,430 range) costs least but requires the most from you. Full-service movers charge the most but handle everything.
What to Know Before Moving from Chicago to Philadelphia
Philadelphia is meaningfully cheaper than Chicago — roughly 30% less for a single person and 33% less for a family of four. That's not a rounding error; it's a real and substantial difference in monthly cash flow.
Here's the full comparison:
| Chicago | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,791 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $3,116 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $216,914 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $70,746 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $2,541 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $6,190 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 10.6% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 3.07% |
Sources: World Population Review, Zillow, U.S. Census Bureau, BLS, Tax Foundation
What that table actually means for your day-to-day:
- Rent is about 17% cheaper in Philadelphia. For a one-bedroom, that's roughly $577/month back in your pocket.
- Home prices are around 27% lower — your down payment and monthly mortgage both drop.
- Income is close enough that you're unlikely to take a meaningful pay cut that offsets the savings — within 5% between the two cities.
- Cost of living for a single person is 30% lower in Philly; for a family of four, 33% lower.
- Unemployment is higher in Philadelphia (10.6% vs. 9.0%) — worth factoring in if you don't have a job secured before you move.
- Sales tax is 22% lower in Philadelphia. On a family's annual spending, that compounds.
- State income tax in Pennsylvania (3.07%) runs about 38% below Illinois (4.95%) — a noticeable difference on each paycheck.
For the day-to-day granular breakdown:
| Expense | Chicago | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $269.29 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $61.40 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $4.30 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $4.15 |
| Fast-food meal | $25.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range) | $100.00 | $90.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $48.67 |
One number stands out in the wrong direction: basic utilities in Philadelphia ($269.29) are actually higher than in Chicago ($191.26). Don't assume every line item swings your way — but food, dining, and gym memberships all land lower in Philly, and the big-ticket items like rent and housing tilt heavily in Philadelphia's favor.
How Life Is Different in Chicago vs. Philadelphia
| Chicago | Philadelphia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 1,603,797 |
| Transit score | 99 | — |
| Walkability score | 77 | 75 |
| Bike friendliness | 72 | 67 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 66.09 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 33.91 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
A few things worth flagging:
- Population: Philadelphia is about 42% smaller. It's a major city — just not Chicago scale.
- Transit: Philly's SEPTA covers the metro well and is broadly comparable to Chicago's CTA for day-to-day commuting.
- Walkability: Nearly identical scores — both are very walkable cities.
- Bikeability: Chicago edges Philly (72 vs. 67). Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting if cycling is part of your routine.
- Crime: This is the number that jumps out. Philadelphia's crime index is 66.09 versus Chicago's 35.19. That doesn't mean Philadelphia is categorically dangerous — crime is hyper-local in both cities — but it's a real difference. Do your homework neighborhood by neighborhood before you sign a lease.
- Air quality: Good in both cities.
Other Things to Consider for Your Chicago to Philadelphia Move
- Elevator reservations: If your origin building or destination has an elevator, reserve it for move day. Missing this step creates delays that cost you money.
- Truck parking permits: Philadelphia's streets are tight. Confirm whether you need a permit for a large moving truck in your specific block and arrange it before move day.
- Pennsylvania licensing: Pennsylvania historically regulated movers through the Public Utility Commission, issuing each company a PUC number and enforcing a standardized tariff. That framework is currently in flux — the PUC's website for mover licensing has reportedly gone dark. Ask any Pennsylvania mover directly about their current licensing status and, if possible, verify with the state before you hand over a deposit.
- Insurance: Pennsylvania movers typically offer Released Value Protection at 60 cents per pound at no additional charge. On a 759-mile move, that's not real coverage. Ask about Full Value Protection or get a third-party policy. It's worth the cost.
- Change of address: Set your official move date on your USPS change-of-address form so mail follows you from day one.
- Moving checklist: The MoveFinders moving checklist walks you through everything — license verification, utility transfers, address changes — so nothing gets dropped in the chaos of move week.
Where to Live in Philadelphia
If you're coming from Chicago and don't know Philly well yet, here's a quick orientation on neighborhoods worth considering.
Best Neighborhoods for Singles
- Cedar Park — Diverse, walkable, active local bar and restaurant scene
- Fishtown — One of the city's hottest corridors; coffee shops, art, nightlife
- Manayunk — More of a Main Street village feel, lively on weekends
- Point Breeze — South Philly location with improving amenities and lower rents
- Washington Square West — Central, walkable, close to everything that matters
Best Neighborhoods for Families
- Bella Vista — Strong community feel, good transit access, family-friendly blocks
- Bustleton — Northeast Philly; more space, quieter streets, room to breathe
- Chestnut Hill — High-end, heavily wooded, excellent schools
- Fitler Square / Rittenhouse Square — City-center convenience with quality parks
- Foxchase — Affordable Northeast option for families watching the budget
- Roxborough — Residential and hilly, close to Wissahickon Valley Park
Things to Do in Philadelphia
You're moving to one of the oldest and most culturally layered cities in the country. A few genuine highlights — not just tourist circuit stops:
- Arts and culture: The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation, Eastern State Penitentiary, and the Museum of the American Revolution are all legitimately worth your time.
- Outdoor recreation: Wissahickon Valley Park is one of the best urban parks in the country — wooded trails inside city limits. Fairmount Park, Spruce Street Harbor Park, and Love Park round out the outdoor options year-round.
- Sports: Philadelphia fans are legendarily passionate. You've got the Eagles (NFL), Phillies (MLB), 76ers (NBA), Flyers (NHL), and Philadelphia Union (MLS) — something going on most of the year.
FAQ
When Is the Best Time to Move from Chicago to Philadelphia?
Spring and fall are the sweet spots. You avoid Chicago summer heat, dodge peak-season pricing, and deal with better mover availability. April–May or September–October if you have the flexibility.
When Is the Cheapest Time to Move from Chicago to Philadelphia?
Winter. Demand drops, movers are more flexible on price, and calendar availability opens up. The trade-off is cold weather and the possibility of weather-related delays on the drive — manageable with a little planning.
How Long Does a Move from Chicago to Philadelphia Take?
Plan for two to seven days from pickup to delivery. The 759-mile route is straightforward, but long-distance delivery windows depend on the carrier's schedule and whether your shipment is consolidated with others. If you need a guaranteed delivery date, ask upfront — some movers offer expedited service at a premium. If you need buffer time on either end, ask about short-term storage options in Philadelphia.
What Kinds of Discounts Do Chicago Movers Offer?
It varies by company and season. Of the top Chicago movers reviewed here, two extend discounts to senior citizens. The most reliable way to find current offers is to ask directly when you're requesting quotes — deals aren't always advertised. Off-peak timing (winter, mid-month, mid-week) typically gets you a lower rate even without a formal discount code.
Need Help Moving a Piano or Antiques in Chicago?
Specialty items need specialists. Currently, 54 Chicago movers handle piano moves and 40 handle antiques. Statewide across Illinois, that's 70 piano movers and 48 antique movers; nationally, 2,299 and 1,464 respectively. Of the five companies profiled above, H2H Movers, Alliance Moving & Storage, The Professionals Moving Specialists, and STI Moving & Storage all list pianos and antiques among their services.
Book specialty items as early as possible — these slots fill fast in peak season.
If you're ready to start comparing prices, run your numbers through the moving cost calculator first — it gives you a real baseline in a couple of minutes, so you know what you're looking at before you get on the phone with anyone. And if you're shipping a vehicle to Philadelphia rather than driving it, check the car shipping options — it's worth comparing against the cost of the drive.