7 Helpful Tips When Moving to Philadelphia

In Philadelphia, history and modern life go hand-in-hand. From cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era landmarks to cutting-edge downtown centers and world-class art displays, Philly residents are proud to call this one-of-a-kind environment their home. Add in the charming sense of community and bravado that makes the City of Brotherly Love famous, and it’s clear to see why it’s easy to enjoy life here.

No matter how excited you are about your move, relocating to a large city can feel challenging without the right preparation. To help make your transition smoother, the local experts at Devon Self Storage have compiled seven essential tips for moving to Philadelphia that will teach you everything you need to know to start your new life on the right foot.

Is Philly a Good Place To Live?

Philadelphia is one of the most dynamic and diverse cities on the East Coast. Residents love its iconic food scene, rich historical roots, and passionate sports culture. Compared to nearby New York and Washington, DC, Philly offers a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing any big-city opportunities. With its unique neighborhoods, abundant green spaces, and endless things to do, Philadelphia balances the convenience of urban living and a welcoming, familial atmosphere.

1. Understand Cost of Living in Philadelphia

Compared to other major cities, Philadelphia’s cost of living is relatively affordable. Key cost factors include:

Housing. Compared to New York and other East Coast cities, Philadelphia’s affordable housing market makes it easy to find a place that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Transit. SEPTA’s buses, trains, and trolleys make getting around the city simple, and they’re a budget-friendly alternative to driving and parking downtown.
Food. From neighborhood grocery stores to hitting your favorite cheesesteak spot, Philly’s food costs are low compared to NYC and DC, giving you more room to explore.
Taxes. Property taxes can vary widely by neighborhood, so it’s smart to research ahead of time, as these costs can add up quickly.

2. Analyze the Philadelphia Job Market

Philadelphia’s job market is both well-established and steadily growing. The city is a hub for education, health care, and life sciences, anchored by institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania and Jefferson Health. Tech startups and financial firms are also expanding, creating opportunities across many industries. With its strong infrastructure and ideal location between New York and Washington, DC, Philly remains an attractive place to start or grow your career.

3. Explore the Suburbs and the City

Philadelphia is more than the Center City District. From the lively streets of South Philly to the quieter charm of the Main Line suburbs, the region offers something for everyone. Downtown boasts a fast-paced lifestyle with plenty of culture, while areas like Delaware County—DelCo—provide suburban comfort within easy reach of the city. Exploring both the heart of the city and the surrounding suburbs will help you find the right balance for your lifestyle.

4. Find the Best Neighborhoods in Philadelphia

South Philly’s Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Eagles football team.

When moving to Philadelphia, researching neighborhoods is essential to help you land in the ideal spot. Here are a few standouts to consider:

Center City. This walkable, central hub is packed with restaurants, shops, and attractions, making it the heartbeat of downtown Philadelphia living.
Fishtown. Known for its artsy vibe and trendy hangout spots, Fishtown has become a favorite among young professionals.
University City. Home to top universities and major medical centers, this neighborhood buzzes with student energy and innovation.
South Philadelphia. Home to the famous Italian Market and stadiums for the Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, and Flyers, South Philadelphia offers a true taste of the city’s character.
Manayunk. With charming, hilly streets and riverside views, Manayunk delivers a strong sense of community and small-town appeal.
Chestnut Hill. This upscale, green neighborhood offers a family-friendly atmosphere with tree-lined streets and boutique shopping.

5. Compare Philadelphia’s Best Schools

Families moving to Philadelphia should carefully consider the local school districts. Some of the best in the metro area include:

Each offers a robust academic performance, a range of extracurricular activities, and supportive communities, making them excellent options for students of all ages.

6. Plan Fun Things To Do in Philadelphia

Philadelphia offers endless activities for newcomers. Must-see attractions include the Philadelphia Museum of Art and its iconic Rocky Steps, a historic walking tour of famous sights, and a visit to the Reading Terminal Market, featuring diverse food vendors. Outdoor lovers can explore Cira Green’s rooftop park or stroll along the Schuylkill River Trail.

Families will also have plenty to do together. Movement Callowhill offers indoor climbing for all ages, while the Philadelphia Zoo is a favorite for kids and adults. Whether you enjoy local culture, trying new foods, or having fun outdoors, there’s always something new to experience in Philly.

7. Try Philadelphia’s Best Restaurants

No move to Philadelphia is complete without diving into the city’s legendary food scene, with the most iconic fare being cheesesteaks. Everyone in the city has a different opinion on which spot serves the best steaks, and you’ll quickly settle on your own favorite. Popular choices include Angelo’s Pizzeria, Jim’s South Street, John’s Roast Pork, and Del Rossi’s Cheesesteak & Pizza Co., each offering its own take on this iconic sandwich.

Beyond cheesesteaks, Philadelphia has a thriving dining landscape that mixes creativity with tradition. If you’re in the mood for comfort food or an upscale dining experience, these spots will keep you exploring long after you’ve unpacked:

Mawn. A cozy spot beloved by locals, it is known for its Southeast Asian-inspired plates with bold flavors.
Fountain Porter. This spot is beloved for its simple but perfectly crafted burgers and relaxed pub atmosphere.
El Chingon. A modern Mexican restaurant renowned for its fresh ingredients and carefully curated cocktails.
Talula’s Garden. Find farm-to-table dining in a charming, garden-like setting that feels uniquely Philly here.
Barclay Prime. A sleek steakhouse built in an old library building that offers delicious seafood and world-class cuts of beef.

Moving Tips and Checklist

A successful move requires careful planning, especially when navigating city streets, parking rules, and building restrictions. Start by mapping out your timeline and begin packing a few boxes as you go. Measure doorways, stairwells, and elevators in your new home before moving day to make sure furniture and large items fit without hiccups.

Here’s a detailed moving checklist to follow as you execute your move:

Schedule utilities. Arrange electricity, water, gas, and internet ahead of time so everything is ready when you arrive.
Reserve parking or loading zones. Contact building management or the city to secure spaces for moving trucks.
Pack smart. Label boxes clearly by room and content, and keep essential items separate for easy access on move-in day.
Hire movers and/or rent a truck. Book trusted movers or rent a moving truck early to avoid last-minute stress.
Invest in storage. If your move-in date doesn’t line up, rent a temporary storage unit from a Devon Self Storage facility in Philadelphia to keep your belongings secure and accessible.

Rent Storage Units in Philadelphia From Devon Self Storage

As you prepare for your move, having a dependable place to store your items securely can make a big difference. Whether you’re downsizing, slowly settling into your new home, or need a place to store belongings before you get your keys, Devon Self Storage is here to help! We offer self storage units in Philadelphia that are affordable and available to rent on a monthly basis.

Stop by our Philadelphia storage facility on Unruh Avenue to get started or reserve your storage unit online today! Our frequently asked questions and storage tips can provide valuable information, while our storage unit size guide can help you find the ideal space.

Devon Content Team

At Devon Self Storage, our content team is passionate about making self storage easier to understand and more accessible for everyone. With real-world experience helping thousands of customers all over the United States, we provide practical advice on everything from packing and moving to selecting the ideal storage unit. Our goal is to simplify the storage process and help you make informed, confident decisions about your space.