Top 5 Things to Know Before Moving to Philadelphia
August 20, 2024 | Moving
Philadelphia, often referred to as Philly, is a vibrant city between New York City and Washington, D.C. Philadelphia is the birthplace of American democracy, with iconic landmarks such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. However, the city is far from being stuck in the past; its diverse neighborhoods, such as Fishtown and Northern Liberties, offer a modern, dynamic atmosphere filled with trendy cafes, art galleries, and bustling nightlife.
Whether you’re moving to Philly to live in historic neighborhoods, indulge in culinary delights, or to immerse yourself in arts and culture, Philadelphia offers something for everyone from singles and young professionals to remote workers and retirees.
Before Moving to Philadelphia, Know The Seasons
Most of Philadelphia falls into a humid subtropical climate zone known for its hot and humid summers. The ideal months to move to Philadelphia are typically in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, making planning a move easier than handling the logistics in extreme heat, cold, or heavy rains.
Spring (April to June): Temperatures are moderate, with highs ranging from the 60s to the 80s (°F).
Fall (September to October): Comfortable temperatures, usually in the 60s to 70s (°F), with less humidity.
If possible, avoid moving to Philly during winter (December to February) due to cold temperatures and potential snow and mid-summer (July to August) due to high heat and humidity. Planning to relocate during spring or fall can make moving to Philadelphia less stressful and more pleasant.
The Cost of Living in Philadelphia
Overall, the cost of living in Philadelphia is around 6% higher than the Pennsylvania’s state average and 2% higher than the national average. However, it’s possible to find suburbs and neighborhoods that offer a lower cost of living compared to other East Coast cities. For example, suburban areas like Chadds Ford in Delaware Valley typically offer lower housing costs and lower property taxes than Philadelphia. Food, gas, and groceries are usually cheaper the further away you get from a large city like Philly.
You can save on gas here too. Philadelphia is widely known for its excellent transportation system. The city has a comprehensive network that includes buses, trolleys, subways, and regional rail services operated by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). SEPTA provides extensive coverage within the city and the surrounding region, making it relatively easy to get around.
Best Philly Burbs if You Decide You Don’t Like Big Cities
If you’re seeking a quiet, rural setting, consider moving to Line Lexington, PA. Despite its small population, Line Lexington is part of two larger adjacent townships: Hilltown and New Britain. This connection gives it the feel of a bigger community, with the combined population of all three townships reaching approximately 26,000.
Niche.com ranks Chadds Ford Township #6 for raising a family in Delaware County, reflecting its popularity in home prices. Enjoy a small-town lifestyle in the rural Brandywine Valley, just an hour from downtown Philadelphia. Chadds Ford offers walking trails, antiquing spots, and fine dining. Explore the 5-mile Harvey Run Trail, spanning 300 acres and leading to Brandywine Creek.
As the last train to Philadelphia, it’s perfect for those wanting small-town family life with city work. Doylestown offers charming shops, dining, museums, and outdoor recreation, including the Mercer Museum, James A. Michener Art Museum, and Fonthill Castle. It’s no wonder that USA Today named Doylestown as having the “best small-town cultural scene” in America.
Philadelphia Offers Plenty of Employment Opportunities
With its great location between Washington D.C. and New York City, Philadelphia offers plenty of opportunities to explore other cities over weekends and holidays but is probably not commutable for most people. Philadelphia is about 95 miles southwest of New York City (roughly a 1.5- to 2-hour drive or train ride from New York City) and around 135 miles northeast of Washington, D.C. (the drive or train ride typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours).
Thankfully, Philadelphia offers employment opportunities in key industries, including healthcare, education, finance, technology, and manufacturing. The city’s strategic location along the Northeast Corridor and its extensive transportation infrastructure make it an attractive hub for anyone living in town or commuting into the city from a nearby suburb.
Top Employers in Philadelphia
These employers are a few of the big players in the Philadelphia job market, offering a wide range of opportunities across various sectors. However, if you’re looking for a small- to mid-sized company between 50-149 employees or maybe 150-499, check out Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Top Workplaces for some great job leads in the area.
University of Pennsylvania and Penn Medicine
Address: 3451 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Website: www.upenn.edu
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)
Address: 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Website: www.chop.edu
Comcast Corporation
Address: 1701 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Website: www.comcast.com
Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health
Address: 111 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Website: www.jefferson.edu
Temple University and Temple Health
Address: 1801 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19122
Website: www.temple.edu
Independence Blue Cross
Address: 1901 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19103\
Website: www.ibx.com
Target
Address: 6113 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19128
Website: www.target.com
Thriving Arts and Culture Scene
Philadelphia offers a unique blend of vibrant arts and culture enriched by its historical sites, including Independence Hall, the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution, and the Liberty Bell.
The city hosts several annual festivals, such as the Philadelphia Fringe Festival, which showcases experimental and contemporary performances, and the Odunde Festival, which celebrates African culture. It’s one of the most prominent African-American street festivals in the U.S. Additionally, the Made in America Festival features top artists across various genres, drawing large crowds each year.
There is never a dull moment when you live in a vibrant, culturally rich city like Philadelphia—there’s always something to explore.
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