Philadelphia to Sterling, Virginia: Road Trip Guide & Distance

137.3 miles 220.9 km · straight line
162.6 miles actual route 261.6 km · driving distance
3h 29min estimated drive time
$16 - $19 estimated fuel cost
~47min flight time
242° WSW bearing direction

How far is Philadelphia from Sterling, Virginia?

The distance from Philadelphia to Sterling, Virginia is 137.3 miles (220.9 km) as the crow flies. Sterling, Virginia is located WSW of Philadelphia. By car, the driving distance is approximately 162.6 miles, taking about 3h 29min. A direct flight would take roughly 47min. Both are located in United States — Philadelphia in Pennsylvania and Sterling, Virginia in Virginia.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare. Given the short distance, driving or taking a train is often faster and more convenient than dealing with airport security and flight boarding times.

Coordinates come from public place data for Philadelphia and Sterling, Virginia. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Philadelphia to Sterling, Virginia

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 3h 29min $16 - $19 Flexible stops
Fly ~47min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~4h 11min $13–$24* Budget
Train ~3h 19min $20–$57* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Philadelphia & Sterling, Virginia

Quick Facts

Philadelphia
39.95°N, 75.17°W
America/New_York
12m elevation
Sterling, Virginia
39.01°N, 77.43°W
America/New_York
89m elevation
Explore more routes from Sterling, Virginia

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 46 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 11 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 181.4 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM