Move from San Diego to Philly: What You Need to Know
Nov 08, 2024
Moving from sunny San Diego to historic Philadelphia can be both exhilarating and a bit daunting. While you’ll be trading California’s year-round sunshine for Philadelphia’s four distinct seasons, you’ll also be gaining a city full of rich culture, affordable living, and a deep sense of American history. Here’s everything you need to know when moving from San Diego to Philadelphia.
Why Move to Philadelphia?
Philadelphia, affectionately known as the City of Brotherly Love, offers a unique blend of history, modern living, and East Coast charm. With more affordable housing compared to other major cities, a thriving job market, top-notch educational institutions, and an art scene that rivals New York, Philly has something for everyone.
If you’re looking to trade the laid-back beach lifestyle for a city vibe full of character, Philadelphia might just be the place for you.
Embrace the Seasons
Leaving San Diego’s near-perfect weather may feel like a loss, but experiencing Philadelphia’s seasons can be delightful in its own way. Imagine cozy winters with a dusting of snow, vibrant springs with blooming cherry blossoms, warm summer days, and crisp autumn evenings with a riot of red and gold leaves.
Each season brings new outdoor activities, from ice skating at Dilworth Park in winter to summer festivals in Fairmount Park. Pro Tip: Invest in a quality winter coat and learn how to layer clothing—it’s the key to enjoying Philly’s colder months.
Enjoy Affordable Living
San Diego’s high housing costs make Philadelphia feel surprisingly affordable. The median home price in Philadelphia is $221,590 compared to San Diego’s $1,013,944. You’ll find a range of options, from historic row houses in the heart of the city to modern apartments.
For those renting, prices are also more budget-friendly. Philly’s overall cost of living is lower than other East Coast cities, making it a great option for people looking to stretch their budget. Pro Tip: If you’re living in Philadelphia, PA and renting, you’d need around $6,705 to live the same way you could with $8,600 in San Diego, CA.
Dive into a Rich History
If you’re a history buff, moving to Philadelphia is like hitting the jackpot. This city is the birthplace of American democracy! You’ll be close to iconic landmarks like Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed, and the Liberty Bell, a symbol of freedom.
Walking through Old City feels like stepping back in time, especially on Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest residential street in the U.S. Pro Tip: Besides the classics, check out the Museum of the American Revolution and the National Constitution Center for a deep dive into America’s past.
Thriving Arts and Culture Scene
Philadelphia’s art and music scene is vibrant and accessible. From the Philadelphia Museum of Art (yes, you can run up the Rocky steps!) to the Barnes Foundation’s amazing collection, there’s plenty for art lovers.
Monthly events like First Friday, where galleries open to the public, are great ways to meet locals and explore neighborhood galleries. For theater and live music, the Avenue of the Arts on South Broad Street has venues like the Kimmel Center, hosting everything from opera to Broadway shows.
Pro Tip: Check out murals around the city—Philadelphia has one of the largest public art programs in the U.S.
Savor Philadelphia’s Food Scene
While San Diego is known for its tacos and fresh seafood, Philly has its own culinary treasures. Beyond the famous cheesesteak, the city offers an array of dining options influenced by its diverse communities. You’ll find everything from authentic Vietnamese pho to Ethiopian and Mexican cuisines.
Food markets like Reading Terminal Market are iconic, offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and Philly specialties all in one spot. And let’s not forget the unique BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) restaurant culture, which allows you to pair your favorite drink with your meal. Pro Tip: Try Zahav for Israeli cuisine or Suraya in Fishtown for a taste of Lebanon—both are local favorites!
Philadelphia’s Convenient Location and Transportation
Philadelphia is ideally located along the Northeast Corridor, making it easy to travel to nearby major cities like New York City and Washington D.C. If you’re not keen on owning a car, Philly’s public transportation system, SEPTA, offers buses, trolleys, and trains that make navigating the city easy and affordable.
Amtrak also runs from 30th Street Station, providing convenient connections to other East Coast hotspots.
Pro Tip: Philadelphia’s Center City is very walkable, and many residents enjoy biking, thanks to the city’s bike-friendly infrastructure.
Outdoor Green Spaces Galore
Despite being a bustling city, Philadelphia has one of the largest urban park systems in the U.S. Fairmount Park alone spans over 9,200 acres and is a beautiful spot for hiking, biking, or just relaxing. You’ll also find plenty of neighborhood parks and the scenic Schuylkill River Trail, perfect for jogging or leisurely strolls. If you miss the beach, the New Jersey shore is just a short drive away for summer weekends by the ocean.
Pro Tip: For weekend escapes, the Pocono Mountains and New Jersey beaches offer more outdoor fun within a couple of hours.
Educational and Professional Opportunities
Philadelphia is home to top-notch universities like the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, making it an educational hub. The city’s growing tech and healthcare industries provide job opportunities, especially for professionals in these fields. Philadelphia’s job market has been on the rise, thanks to the city’s strategic investments in the education and healthcare sectors.
Pro Tip: Philadelphia is also becoming a startup-friendly city, so if you’re entrepreneurial, this could be a great place to start your own business.
Finding Community in Philadelphia
One of the best parts of Philly is its strong sense of community. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, from the historic feel of Society Hill to the artsy energy in Northern Liberties. Residents are passionate about their city, and you’ll find numerous festivals, farmers’ markets, and local events that keep Philly feeling friendly and inviting.
Some of the communities you can join include:
Fishtown Neighbors Association: Connect with local events and initiatives in the artsy Fishtown neighborhood.
South Street Headhouse District: Known for a lively cultural scene; get involved in events and business collaborations.
Northern Liberties Neighborhood Association (NLNA): A community group in Northern Liberties, hosting events and neighborhood projects.
Philadelphia Museum of Art Young Friends: A social group for art lovers offering exclusive events and networking. Philadelphia Sports Leagues (Phield House): Recreational sports leagues for adults, from kickball to soccer.
South Philly Food Co-op: Join a local grocery co-op that supports sustainable, fresh food access.
Philly Outdoor Hiking Club: Organized hikes and outdoor adventures in and around Philadelphia.
r/philadelphia: Join this active online community to stay updated on city events and news. Meetup Philadelphia: Find groups based on your interests, from tech meetups to book clubs.
Pro Tip: Explore neighborhoods like Fishtown, Graduate Hospital, and Rittenhouse Square to get a feel for the area that best matches your lifestyle and interests.
Tips for a Smooth Move to Philadelphia
Relocating from San Diego to Philadelphia means transporting your belongings across the country, which requires planning and organization. Here are some tips for a hassle-free move:
· Hire a reliable moving company Cross-country moves can be complex, so it is highly recommended to hire a reputable moving company with experience in long-distance moves.
Research companies read reviews and get multiple quotes to compare services. Look for movers who offer insurance to protect your belongings during transit. Recommended Movers: Allied Atlas is known for reliable long-distance moving services.
· Pack smart and declutter Moving cross-country is the perfect time to declutter. Go through your belongings and decide what’s worth taking. Donate, sell, or recycle items you no longer need, saving on moving costs and effort. For packing, label boxes by room and item type for easier unpacking, and prioritize essentials you’ll need immediately.
· Protect your valuables For high-value or fragile items, consider packing them separately. Items like important documents, electronics, jewelry, and family heirlooms should be kept close or packed securely with extra protection if they’re going with the movers.
· Time your move wisely Avoid peak moving seasons (summer and holidays) when prices and demand are higher. Moving mid-week and mid-month can often save you money and ensure better availability with moving companies.
· Consider temporary housing If you’re unsure of which neighborhood to settle in, consider temporary housing until you get a feel for the city. Companies like Airbnb or corporate housing options can give you a flexible landing spot while you explore Philadelphia.
· Notify important parties Update your address with the post office, banks, utilities, and any subscriptions before moving. Also, transfer or set up new services like electricity, water, and internet in Philadelphia to ensure a smooth transition once you arrive.
Additionally, inform your bank, credit card companies, utilities, insurance providers, and subscription services about your new address to avoid disruptions. Here is the official USPS link to change your address.
Move From San Diego to Philadelphia With Us!
Moving from San Diego to Philadelphia is a big change, but it’s a journey full of opportunity. Looking for a moving team that knows what it takes to get you from San Diego to Philadelphia smoothly?
With years of experience and a 5-star reputation, Atlas Allied is here to make your cross-country move as easy as possible. From packing up your home to safely transporting your belongings, we handle every step to ensure everything arrives securely. Reach out today for a quote, and let us help make your move worry-free!