Best Birmingham to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Birmingham to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 725 mile move from Alabama to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Birmingham to Detroit moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is MoveDaddy), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Birmingham compared to Detroit. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Birmingham to Detroit Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1MoveDaddy9.399.53Authorized For HHG
2New Latitude Movers9.289.55Authorized For HHG
3Secure Moving Inc8.627.84Authorized For HHG
4Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.498.22Authorized For HHG
5Balance Detroit8.487.79Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Birmingham to Detroit?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 725 miles from Birmingham, AL to Detroit, MI will cost on average $2,398 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Birmingham to Detroit move is roughly $5,751. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,614300 ft³$5.38
1 Bedroom$2,398450 ft³$5.33
2 Bedrooms$3,959750 ft³$5.28
3 Bedrooms$5,7511100 ft³$5.23
4 Bedrooms$8,2851600 ft³$5.18
5+ Bedrooms$9,2311800 ft³$5.13
*Please note: These Alabama to Michigan moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Alabama & Michigan. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed AL to MI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Birmingham guide.

Compare the 5 Best Birmingham to Detroit Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

MoveDaddy Logo

MoveDaddy

Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,564+ data points

3114 Bellwood Dr

Birmingham, AL, 35243

About MoveDaddy

Move Daddy offers a wide variety of moving services in Birmingham, including full-service residential and commercial moves, moving labor only, apartment...

Services

  • Long Distance moving
  • Local moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2521318 / 875746

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved55,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
New Latitude Movers Logo

New Latitude Movers

Exceptional9.28/10
based on 1,154+ data points

130 Industrial Dr

Birmingham, AL, 35211

About New Latitude Movers

New Latitude Moving and Storage is a full-service moving company based in Birmingham, Alabama. Originally started as an antique moving company,...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Storage Facilities

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2179652 / 765956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans57
Registered Drivers54
Total Annual Miles Moved450,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Secure Moving Inc Logo

Secure Moving Inc

Fabulous8.62/10
based on 310+ data points

900 Keystone Ct

Pelham, AL, 35124

About Secure Moving Inc

Secure Moving Inc is a licensed, insured, and vetted full-service moving company that’s been operating for over a hundred years. As...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

804775 / 358359

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved41,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.49/10
based on 337+ data points

11850 E Jefferson

Detroit, MI, 48214

About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Corporate moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
B

Balance Detroit

Fabulous8.48/10
based on 63+ data points

Livonia, MI, 48150

About Balance Detroit

Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...

Services

  • White Glove Service
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Small Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4059339 / 1539936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Birmingham vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can feel like stepping into the unknown, especially when it comes to finding a new neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Birmingham, AL & Detroit, MI . This guide will help you discover neighborhoods in Detroit that share the character and charm of your Birmingham favorites, making your move a little less daunting.

BirminghamDetroitHow They're Similar
Highland ParkPalmer WoodsHistoric homes, green spaces
Forest ParkBoston-EdisonArchitecturally rich, vibrant community
Mountain BrookIndian VillageUpscale, historic community
AvondaleCorktownTrendy eateries, vibrant arts scene
Five Points SouthMidtownCultural hotspot, diverse dining
HomewoodWest VillageCharming, close-knit community vibes
HooverGrosse PointeFamily-friendly, waterfront parks
Vestavia HillsRosedale ParkWell-maintained homes, community feel
SouthsideWoodbridgeHistoric, diverse community
North BirminghamNorth EndRevitalizing, historic charm

For those drawn to the historic charm and lush greenery of Highland Park in Birmingham, Detroit's Palmer Woods offers a similar allure with its grand historic homes and verdant landscapes. If you’re leaving the vibrant, culturally rich neighborhood of Forest Park, you'll find a kindred spirit in Detroit’s Boston-Edison, which boasts an architecturally diverse community brimming with history. Foodies and art lovers moving from Avondale's trendy atmosphere will be delighted by Corktown’s progressive dining scene and eclectic art galleries, mirroring Avondale's blend of culinary innovation and artistic expression. Meanwhile, the family-friendly environment and outdoor recreational opportunities in Hoover find a match in Grosse Pointe's welcoming neighborhoods and its access to waterfront parks, making the transition feel like a change of scenery rather than a change of lifestyle.

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Things to Do in Detroit

  • Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts
  • Visit the Belle Isle Park
  • Enjoy a game at Comerica Park
  • Walk along the Detroit Riverfront
  • Discover the Henry Ford Museum
  • Experience the Motown Museum
  • Try local eats at Eastern Market

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Birmingham to Detroit

Moving from one city to another is a significant life event that requires a thorough examination of both the good and the bad aspects involved. This side-by-side comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on relocating from Birmingham, AL to Detroit, MI, helping you weigh your options carefully.

CONs
PROs
Birmingham, AL iconBirmingham, AL
  • Higher crime rate
  • Small job market
  • Lower educational rankings
  • Less diverse cuisine
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Larger job opportunities
  • Better schools
  • Varied dining options
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Higher living costs
  • Harsh winters
  • Fewer parks
  • Adjustment period
Birmingham, AL iconBirmingham, AL
  • Lower cost of living
  • Milder winters
  • Lush green spaces
  • Friendly communities

When moving from Birmingham to Detroit, you're not just changing your address; you're stepping into new opportunities and challenges. For starters, Detroit's Detroit Institute of Arts and the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit are cultural meccas that offer rich, artistic experiences beyond what's available in Birmingham. The job market in Detroit, particularly in automotive and technology sectors, presents growth opportunities with companies like General Motors and Quicken Loans. Dining out in Detroit is an adventure, with a vast spectrum of cuisines from the classic Detroit-style pizza at Buddy's Pizza to the upscale culinary delights at The Wright & Company. Nonetheless, it's worth noting that despite Detroit's vibrant urban life, it lacks Birmingham's sprawling, lush green spaces like Railroad Park, and the winters can be particularly challenging if you're not accustomed to the northern cold. The transition will require adjustments, but the cultural and professional enrichment in Detroit might just be worth the move.

Birmingham vs. Detroit Food Guide

Exploring the rich tapestry of local flavors is a delightful way to understand the essence of a place. In this comparison of the local cuisine between Birmingham & Detroit, we'll dive into the culinary scene to help you get acquainted with the tastes of where you're moving to.

Birmingham
Detroit
Most iconic local food item
Barbecue ribs
Coney dog
Most popular meat dish
Fried Catfish
Gyros
Most popular street food item
Grits
Pizza slices
Most popular vegan food
Vegetable plate
Vegan Coney
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Highlands Bar & Grill
  • Saw’s BBQ
  • Hot and Hot Fish Club
  • Lafayette Coney Island
  • Slows Bar BQ
  • Buddy’s Pizza
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When you move from Birmingham to Detroit, you'll notice a shift not just in climate and culture, but also in the local culinary scene. Birmingham is renowned for its southern comfort foods, with barbecue ribs and fried catfish being staples in many local diets. Restaurants like Highlands Bar & Grill offer a taste of this southern charm. On the other hand, Detroit's food scene is bustling with diverse offerings, from the iconic Coney dog found at Lafayette Coney Island to gyro meat dishes and a variety of pizza slices that reflect the city's rich immigrant history. Furthermore, Detroit is showing a growing trend in vegan options, such as the vegan Coney, catering to a wider range of dietary preferences. Both cities boast vibrant food scenes, but Detroit, in particular, is seeing an increase in food trucks and vegan-friendly restaurants, making it an exciting time to explore the city's culinary delights.

Birmingham vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, discovering local dining spots is key to feeling at home. This restaurant comparison between Birmingham and Detroit aims to assist you in finding new favorite eateries based on what you love in your current city. Let this guide be your culinary compass in navigating the vibrant food scenes of both cities.

BirminghamDetroitWhat You'll Love
Highlands Bar and GrillSelden StandardBoth offer seasonal menus with a focus on local ingredients.
Hot and Hot Fish ClubIridescenceUpscale dining with inventive seafood dishes.
Saw’s Soul KitchenSlows Bar BQAuthentic, hearty Southern BBQ with a community vibe.
Bottega RestaurantOttava ViaItalian fare in a cozy setting, emphasizing fresh pasta and pizza.
Frank Stitt's French BistroLe Culture CaféA bistro setting with a French-inspired menu and intimate dining experience.
El BarrioTaqueria El ReyKnown for authentic Mexican cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.
Highland Coffee CompanyAstro CoffeeBoth are community-centered coffee shops with expertly crafted drinks.
Post Office PiesSupino PizzeriaRenowned for thin-crust, artisanal pizzas with fresh, high-quality toppings.
The Bright StarLady of the HouseModern American cuisine with a nod to tradition, located in a historic setting.
Automatic Seafood and OystersMaru Sushi & GrillQuality seafood and inventive dishes characterize both spots.

Exploring the culinary landscape of a new city can be an exciting adventure that brings a sense of familiarity in unfamiliar surroundings. For instance, if you've relished the moments spent in the warm, inviting atmosphere of Highlands Bar and Grill back in Birmingham, you will find a similar embrace within the seasonal, locally-sourced dishes at Selden Standard in Detroit. Likewise, fans of Saw’s Soul Kitchen's down-home Southern comfort will find a kindred spirit in Slows Bar BQ, where the communal joy of BBQ continues to thrive. These pairings not only mirror the unique flavors of your familiar favorites but also introduce you to the rich, diverse food scene of your new city. This guide is designed to make your transition as deliciously seamless as possible.

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Ready to start your move?

Birmingham vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, comparing the real estate aspects between Birmingham, AL and Detroit, MI is crucial. This comparison gives you a better understanding of what to expect in your new city, from housing costs to the urban lifestyle. Let's dive into how these two cities contrast in their real estate offerings.

Birmingham
Detroit
Typical Architecture Style
Craftsman, Colonial
Art Deco, Bungalow
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Large yards, quiet neighborhoods
Close to downtown, historic properties

Exploring the real estate landscapes of Birmingham and Detroit reveals distinct differences. In Birmingham, the higher median home price reflects its more affluent neighborhoods and larger homes, often boasting Craftsman or Colonial architecture and spacious yards. On the other hand, Detroit's affordable housing market, characterized by Art Deco and Bungalow styles, offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with close proximity to downtown and historic districts. Despite Birmingham's less walkable and bikeable environments, both cities offer unique living experiences tailored to various preferences. While Detroit scores higher in urban lifestyle, indicating a dynamic city life, Birmingham provides a serene setting, ideal for those seeking quiet neighborhoods. Considering these factors can help you decide which city aligns best with your lifestyle and housing preferences.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Detroit, MI

1 Corktown : You'll love how many parks and walking trails are in Corktown, making it perfect for your daily outings with your pet.

2 Midtown : Midtown offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops where you and your furry friend can enjoy a relaxed outing together.

3 Royal Oak : Known for its dog parks and pet-friendly community events, Royal Oak is a haven for pet owners like you seeking an active lifestyle for your pets.

Birmingham vs. Detroit Weather Considerations

Moving between cities means adapting to new weather patterns. If you're transitioning from Birmingham, AL to Detroit, MI, understanding how the climate shifts will help you prepare better. These charts highlight the key weather differences to expect.

Birmingham
Detroit
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Tornadoes
Snowstorms
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

90°F / 71°F
83°F / 63°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

54°F / 34°F
35°F / 22°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

53"
33"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

1"
42"


When moving from Birmingham to Detroit, anticipate significant winter temperature drops and a notable increase in snowfall. Detroit experiences colder winters with an average high of 35°F and frequent snow, adding up to about 42 inches annually. On the contrary, Birmingham enjoys milder winters and a warmer climate overall. Additionally, Birmingham sees more sunny days per year, but both cities have similar humidity levels. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for seasonal activities and wardrobe changes.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Birmingham to Detroit

When relocating, understanding how the cost of living and financial aspects between your current city, Birmingham, and your new home, Detroit, will affect you is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on the financial adjustments you may need to consider.

Birmingham
Detroit
Avg. Household Income
$36,614
$36,140
Cost of Living Index
90.8
99.4
State Income Tax
5
4.25
Avg. Property Tax
0.65
2.44
Avg. Sales Tax
9
6
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Banking, Construction
Automotive, Technology, Healthcare
Affluence
Moderate
Lower
Poverty
High
Higher
Homelessness
Concerning
More concerning

While Birmingham enjoys a lower cost of living index, Detroit faces financial challenges with a lower average household income and a higher poverty rate. However, Detroit's state income and sales taxes are modestly lower than Birmingham's, which may offer some relief. The difference in average property tax rates between the two cities is notable, reflecting Detroit's much higher rate. Industry opportunities vary with each city having its dominant sectors, meaning your career path could influence your choice just as much as the financial landscape. Understanding these nuances will help you prepare for your move.

Birmingham vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison

In this section, we provide a concise comparison of the politics between Birmingham & Detroit, giving you an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious landscape you're moving from and to. This overview will help you understand the community dynamics in both cities.

Birmingham
Detroit
Political Make-up
Lean Democrat
Strongly Democrat
Local Politics
Community-driven initiatives
Labor and industry-focused politics
Religion
Primarily Christian, diverse denominations
Primarily Christian, significant Muslim community

While both Birmingham and Detroit are known for their Democratic leanings, Detroit exhibits a stronger inclination towards Democratic policies and candidates, influenced by its historical ties to the labor movement and the auto industry. In terms of local politics, Birmingham often focuses on community-driven initiatives that aim to improve living conditions and social equity. Detroit's political landscape, however, is more intertwined with labor and industry issues, reflecting the city's roots in manufacturing. On the religious front, both cities share a Christian majority, with Birmingham housing a variety of denominations and Detroit notable for having a significant Muslim community alongside its Christian population.

Birmingham vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Birmingham, AL, to Detroit, MI, means adapting to new traffic and transportation dynamics. This comparison between Birmingham & Detroit will help you better understand what to expect during your daily commute.

Birmingham
Detroit
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
24
26
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Somewhat

While the average commute time is relatively similar between Birmingham and Detroit, Detroit experiences slightly higher traffic congestion, reflecting its denser urban environment. However, Detroit has a more available public transit system, including Detroit Department of Transportation buses and the QLine tram, making it easier to navigate without a personal vehicle. This comparison underscores the importance of considering your daily commute and the convenience of public transport options when moving to a new city.

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