What is the dfference between a "Philharmonic" and a "Symphony Orchestra"?

Answer 1

they are the same. The orchestra committe sits down and decides which name sounds better, or if one is already taken, i.e there is already a New York Phil, there can't be another, so another orchestra could decide to be New York City Symphony Orchestra.

Answer 2

a philharmonic is a symphony orchestra, but there are usually only a few philharmonics in each state. A philharmonic is basically the best orchestra of the state.