Are you thinking about moving to Philadelphia? Whether you are planning to relocate for a new job, educational opportunity, or a lifestyle change, Philadelphia offers a vibrant and culturally rich experience. As one of the most historic cities in the United States, Philly combines charm, character, and modern city amenities. Before you start packing, let us explore what life in the City of Brotherly Love is really like. This guide covers everything from job prospects and cost of living to safety, climate, and what to expect as a new resident.
Where is Philadelphia Located?
Philadelphia is located in southeastern Pennsylvania near the borders of New Jersey and Delaware. It sits along the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers and is about one hour and thirty minutes southwest of New York City. Washington DC is just over two hours to the south, making Philadelphia a convenient hub between two of the largest cities on the East Coast. Its strategic location is ideal for commuters, frequent travelers, and those who enjoy exploring surrounding regions. Whether you are moving from a nearby state or across the country, Philadelphia is well connected by air, train, and highway.
Employment and Job Opportunities
Philadelphia has a strong and diverse economy that supports a wide range of industries. The city is home to major hospitals, universities, law firms, and corporations. Some of the top employment sectors in Philadelphia include healthcare, education, finance, biotechnology, and information technology. Major employers include:
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University of Pennsylvania and Penn Medicine
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Comcast Corporation
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Jefferson Health
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Temple University
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Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
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Independence Blue Cross
Whether you are seeking entry level work or executive roles, relocating to Philadelphia presents ample career opportunities. The city also supports a growing remote workforce and an emerging startup ecosystem that continues to attract tech and creative talent.
What is the Cost of Living in Philadelphia?
One of the most common questions people ask is whether Philadelphia is a good place to live in terms of affordability. Compared to cities like New York or Boston, Philadelphia is often considered a more affordable alternative that still provides big city access and amenities.
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Housing: Rent and home prices in Philadelphia are more reasonable than in most major East Coast cities. While neighborhoods like Rittenhouse Square and Old City are on the higher end, areas such as Fishtown, Port Richmond, and West Philadelphia offer more budget friendly options.
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Groceries and Utilities: These costs fall near the national average, although prices can vary depending on location and family size.
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Transportation: The city has a robust public transportation system operated by SEPTA, which includes buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail.
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Healthcare and Insurance: Healthcare costs in Philadelphia can be slightly above the national average but are offset by access to world class medical institutions.
Overall, Philadelphia offers a balanced cost of living for individuals and families seeking urban life without the excessive price tag.
Climate and Seasons in Philadelphia
Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, making it a great location for those who enjoy seasonal changes. The city has a humid subtropical climate which results in warm summers, cold winters, and pleasant spring and autumn months.
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Spring: Temperatures are mild and trees bloom across the city. Outdoor markets and festivals begin to emerge.
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Summer: Expect warm and humid days with average temperatures in the mid to upper eighties.
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Fall: The weather is cool and comfortable. Autumn foliage in the parks and along the Schuylkill River is especially beautiful.
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Winter: Winters are cold with occasional snowfall. Average temperatures range from the upper twenties to the low forties.
If you are wondering what it is like to live in Philadelphia year round, the climate provides variety without extreme conditions.
Is Philadelphia Safe?
Safety in Philadelphia, like in any major city, depends heavily on the neighborhood. Some areas experience higher crime rates, while others are considered very safe and family friendly. The city continues to invest in public safety initiatives and community programs to improve overall security.
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Chestnut Hill
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Queen Village
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Fairmount
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Bella Vista
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Society Hill
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Manayunk
It is always a good idea to research the specific area you are moving to and visit it if possible. Talk to locals, review crime maps, and consider proximity to public transportation and schools.
Things to Do in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is full of attractions, activities, and unique experiences. Whether you are a history buff, foodie, sports fan, or art enthusiast, there is always something to discover.
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Historical Sites: Visit iconic landmarks like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Betsy Ross House. Philadelphia is the birthplace of American democracy.
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Museums and Culture: Explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Franklin Institute, and the Barnes Foundation.
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Food and Dining: The food scene is diverse and constantly evolving. While cheesesteaks are a staple, you will also find world class Italian, Asian, and vegan cuisine.
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Parks and Green Spaces: Fairmount Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. You can also enjoy Spruce Street Harbor Park, Wissahickon Valley Park, and Bartram’s Garden.
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Sports and Entertainment: Support hometown teams like the Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, and Flyers. The city also hosts concerts, theater, and year round festivals.
If you are asking why move to Philadelphia, its rich cultural life and endless things to do are strong reasons.
Pros and Cons of Living in Philadelphia
Every city has its benefits and challenges. Below is a breakdown of the most common pros and cons of living in Philadelphia:
Benefits of Living in Philadelphia
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Affordable housing and living costs compared to nearby major cities
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Rich in American history and architectural beauty
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Excellent healthcare and education institutions
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Strong public transportation network
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Central East Coast location with access to New York City, Washington DC, and the Jersey Shore
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A vibrant local food, music, and arts scene
Challenges of Living in Philadelphia
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Some areas experience higher crime rates
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Traffic congestion and limited parking in certain neighborhoods
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Older infrastructure and public services in need of investment
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The city wage tax is relatively high
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Winters can be cold and damp for those not used to the climate
Understanding both the advantages and potential drawbacks will help you make an informed decision about whether Philadelphia is the right fit for your lifestyle.
Final Thoughts: Should You Move to Philadelphia?
So, is Philadelphia a good place to live? The answer depends on what you value in a city. If you are looking for a place with deep history, diverse neighborhoods, professional opportunities, and a welcoming community, then Philadelphia could be an excellent choice. It is a city that blends tradition with progress and offers something for everyone—from students and professionals to families and retirees.
Planning a Move? Movers and Co is Here for You
If you are ready to make Philadelphia your new home, Movers & Co is your trusted moving partner. We specialize in helping individuals and families relocate to and from the Philadelphia area with ease. Our professional movers handle every step of the process with care and efficiency so you can focus on starting your new chapter.
Whether you are coming from another part of Pennsylvania or across the country, Movers and Co provides dependable moving services you can count on. Let us help make your move to Philadelphia smooth, simple, and stress free.