Best Durham to Birmingham Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Durham to Birmingham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 532 mile move from North Carolina to Alabama go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Durham to Birmingham 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 Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Durham compared to Birmingham. 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 Durham to Birmingham Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Raleigh Moving Company9.449.6Active
2MoveDaddy9.399.53Authorized For HHG
3Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHG
4New Latitude Movers9.289.55Authorized For HHG
5Capital Moving & Storage9.279.47Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 532 miles from Durham, NC to Birmingham, AL will cost on average $2,234 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Birmingham move is roughly $5,350. 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$1,504300 ft³$5.01
1 Bedroom$2,234450 ft³$4.96
2 Bedrooms$3,685750 ft³$4.91
3 Bedrooms$5,3501100 ft³$4.86
4 Bedrooms$7,7021600 ft³$4.81
5+ Bedrooms$8,5751800 ft³$4.76
*Please note: These North Carolina to Alabama moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & Alabama. 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 NC to AL mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Birmingham to Durham guide.

Compare the 5 Best Durham to Birmingham Movers

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

Raleigh Moving Company Logo

Raleigh Moving Company

Exceptional9.44/10
based on 856+ data points

Raleigh, NC, 27609

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...

Services

  • Free estimates
  • Full Value Protection (FVP)
  • Fully licensed and insured

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
1
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
2
Athens Moving Experts Logo

Athens Moving Experts

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 3,932+ data points

6601 Hillsborough St # 111

Raleigh, NC, 27606

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
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
4
Capital Moving & Storage Logo

Capital Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.27/10
based on 1,367+ data points

3450 Bush St Suite 245

Raleigh, NC, 27609

About Capital Moving & Storage

Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved120,504 (2023)
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.

Durham vs. Birmingham Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. This guide aims to help you find your feet by comparing local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Birmingham, AL. By examining the similarities between popular neighborhoods in Durham with those in Birmingham, you’ll be able to picture yourself in your new home with ease.

DurhamBirminghamHow They're Similar
Trinity ParkHighland ParkHistoric homes, community-centric
Old West DurhamForest ParkArtsy, vibrant community life
Hope ValleyMountain BrookUpscale, family-friendly
Warehouse DistrictLakeview DistrictNightlife, trendy eateries
Brightleaf SquareAvondaleBreweries, modern dining scenes
WoodcroftVestavia HillsSuburban, great schools
American Tobacco DistrictRailroad Park AreaUrban renewal, entertainment
Duke ParkRedmont ParkGreen spaces, neighborhood charm
SouthpointHomewoodShopping, accessible public spaces
Ninth StreetFive Points SouthEclectic, historic area

If you're fond of the buzzing atmosphere and eclectic shops of Ninth Street, you'll likely appreciate the historic vibe and vibrant night scene in Five Points South. This Birmingham neighborhood offers a similar mix of local eateries, bars, and shops, making it a great place for those who enjoy a lively urban environment. On the flip side, those moving from the tranquil, green spaces of Duke Park might find Redmont Park to be a seamless transition with its lush landscapes and welcoming community. Here, you can explore parks like Caldwell Park that offer a peaceful refuge within the city. Whether you're drawn to the modern dining and breweries of Brightleaf Square or the historic homes and community feel of Trinity Park, Birmingham has neighborhoods that echo the charm and character of your Durham favorites, making it easier to feel right at home.

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Things to Do in Birmingham

  • Explore Birmingham Zoo.
  • Visit Birmingham Museum of Art.
  • Walk around Railroad Park.
  • Enjoy McWane Science Center.
  • Discover Vulcan Park and Museum.
  • Attend a game at UAB Sports.
  • Tour Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Birmingham

Moving can be a stressful yet exciting time, offering both challenges and rewards. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes when relocating from Durham, NC to Birmingham, AL. With detailed comparisons, you’ll find insights into how swapping these city settings might affect your lifestyle.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Higher cost of living
  • Colder winters
  • Lesser dining variety
  • Smaller city feel
Birmingham, AL iconBirmingham, AL
  • Lower cost of living
  • Milder winters
  • Greater dining diversity
  • Larger metropolitan area
Birmingham, AL iconBirmingham, AL
  • Urban industrial scenery
  • Fewer academic institutions
  • Emerging tech scene
  • Higher crime rates
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lush green landscapes
  • Rich academic environment
  • Vibrant tech scene
  • Lower crime rates

Moving from Durham to Birmingham, you'll swap the lush, verdant landscapes and academic buzz of the Research Triangle for Birmingham's historically rich, industrial charm. While Durham is known for institutions like Duke University, birthing a vibrant tech scene, you'll find Birmingham's UAB an emerging tech hub. Birmingham doesn't shy away from variety in dining, either; from the soulful Southern cuisine at Saw's Soul Kitchen to the exotic flavors at Babalu, there's plenty to explore. While you might miss Durham's lower crime rates and the academic environment, Birmingham's metropolitan experience and milder winters present a new world of exploration.

Durham vs. Birmingham Food Guide

Food is an essential part of the local culture and living experience. As you plan your move, understanding the local cuisine is key to feeling at home. We've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham, NC & Birmingham, AL, so you can be well-informed about the culinary scene awaiting you.

Durham
Birmingham
Most iconic local food item
Barbecue pork
Fried green tomatoes
Most popular meat dish
Brisket
Baby back ribs
Most popular street food item
Taco trucks
Hot chicken sandwiches
Most popular vegan food
BBQ jackfruit
Collard greens
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Poole's Diner
  • Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten
  • Mateo Bar De Tapas
  • SAW's BBQ
  • Highlands Bar and Grill
  • Hot and Hot Fish Club
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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In Birmingham, the iconic fried green tomatoes can often be found at neighborhood gems like the SAW's BBQ, which reflects the city's love for traditional Southern cuisine with a modern twist. Unlike Durham's barbecue pork, Birmingham takes pride in its baby back ribs, showcasing a deep-rooted barbecue culture. The food scene is also becoming increasingly accommodating to vegans, with dishes like collard greens being offered in more creative and vegan-friendly ways. This nod towards health and dietary inclusivity shows Birmingham's evolving food scene, appealing to a broader audience while staying true to its Southern roots.

Durham vs. Birmingham Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite eatery can transform a city into a home, especially when moving to a new area. This comparison chart aims to connect Durham, NC, and Birmingham, AL residents with their new favorite spots , using familiar favorites as a guide. Whether you’re seeking high-end dining, casual eats, or iconic dishes, let this be your culinary compass in your new city.

DurhamBirminghamWhat You'll Love
Mateo Bar de TapasEl BarrioVaried Latin American cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere
Pizzeria ToroPost Office PiesArtisanal wood-fired pizzas in a laid-back setting
NanaSteakPerry's Steakhouse & GrilleFamous for steak and an upscale dining experience
Dame's Chicken & WafflesEugene's Hot ChickenKnown for Southern flavors and crispy chicken
Bull City Burger and BreweryGood People BrewingGreat burgers with a selection of craft beers
Scratch BakeryEdgar's BakeryA wide variety of baked goods and a cozy cafe vibe
M SushiShikiAuthentic Japanese cuisine with a focus on fresh sushi
Parts & LaborHot BoxA gastro pub offering innovative and eclectic dishes
Elmo's DinerTrattoria ZazaComforting Italian food in a casual diner setting
Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & BiergartenAvondale Common House & DistilleryEuropean-inspired dishes with a local twist

When exploring the culinary landscape of Birmingham, AL, newcomers from Durham will find comforting parallels and thrilling new experiences. For instance, aficionados of Mateo Bar de Tapas will delight in El Barrio's eclectic Latin American menu and vibrant energy, promising a similar blend of innovation and tradition. Meanwhile, pizza enthusiasts who frequented Pizzeria Toro can savor the artisanal, wood-fired creations at Post Office Pies, where the emphasis on quality ingredients and laid-back ambiance echoes their Durham favorite. And for those who loved the distinct combination of flavors at Dame's Chicken & Waffles, Eugene's Hot Chicken offers a Southern culinary adventure with its crispy, perfectly seasoned chicken that pays homage to the beloved Durham dish. These establishments not only carry on the culinary traditions you've come to love in Durham but also invite you to dive deep into Birmingham's own rich flavors and unique dining experiences.

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Ready to start your move?

Durham vs. Birmingham Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how Durham and Birmingham compare in terms of housing can make a huge difference in finding your next home. This comparison covers everything from costs to lifestyle .

Durham
Birmingham
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Craftsman
Tudor, Craftsman
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Granite countertops, hardwood floors
Large backyards, historic details

Durham's real estate market leans slightly higher in cost, both in purchasing and renting properties, compared to Birmingham. However, Durham offers a more vibrant urban lifestyle, reflected in its higher score. The dominant architectural styles in both cities reveal a charm unique to each: Durham with its Colonial and Craftsman homes, and Birmingham boasting Tudor styles alongside Craftsman designs. Despite both cities having low walkability and bikeability scores, the cultural and historic aspects of their neighborhoods are often highlights in real estate listings, with Durham homes trending towards modern amenities like granite countertops and Birmingham houses prizing large backyards and preserved historic details.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Birmingham, AL

1. Highland Park : You’ll love Highland Park for its abundant green spaces and pet-friendly walking trails.

2. Forest Park : In Forest Park, you and your pets can enjoy a tight-knit community vibe and easy access to local parks.

3. Homewood : Homewood offers a welcoming environment with numerous pet-friendly cafes and a dog park nearby.

Durham vs. Birmingham Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Durham, NC, to Birmingham, AL, understanding the weather differences between these two cities is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how climate and environmental conditions vary, helping you adjust more comfortably to your new setting.

Durham
Birmingham
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Tornadoes
Tornadoes, Thunderstorms
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

89/71
91/71
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

50/30
54/34


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

41
53
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

4
1


While both Durham and Birmingham enjoy a similar range of temperatures in summer and winter, there are notable differences in environmental conditions that could impact your daily life. Birmingham experiences slightly higher average humidity and more annual rainfall than Durham, potentially affecting outdoor activities and overall comfort. Additionally, while both cities face their share of natural disasters, Birmingham's greater tendency towards tornadoes and thunderstorms may require new residents to become more familiar with local emergency protocols. Understanding these climate nuances will help you better prepare for your move and adapt to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, understanding the financial landscape of your new city is crucial. This comparison will illuminate how Durham, NC and Birmingham, AL stack up against each other in critical financial aspects. Knowing this will help you budget effectively and set realistic expectations for your move.

Durham
Birmingham
Avg. Household Income
$71,343
$36,614
Cost of Living Index
96.6
90.8
State Income Tax
5.25
5.0
Avg. Property Tax
0.84
0.68
Avg. Sales Tax
7.5
10.0
Top 3 Industries
Education, Health Services, Technology
Healthcare, Banking, Manufacturing
Affluence
Moderate
Lower
Poverty
Lower
Higher
Homelessness
Minimal
Moderate

While the average household income in Durham is significantly higher than in Birmingham, the cost of living index shows that your dollars can stretch further in Birmingham, with a cost of living index of 72 compared to Durham's 96. However, Birmingham's higher sales tax rate of 10% compared to Durham's 7.5% could offset some of these savings. The differing states of affluence and poverty between the two cities are notable, with Durham boasting a more moderate affluence and lower poverty rates. Moreover, the primary industries in each city – education, health services, and technology in Durham; healthcare, banking, and manufacturing in Birmingham – could influence job opportunities and economic stability for new residents.

Durham vs. Birmingham Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Durham, NC, to Birmingham, AL, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local culture and community. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Durham & Birmingham, giving you insight into the fundamental beliefs and values that shape these two cities.

Durham
Birmingham
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democratic
Liberal/Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive policies and initiatives
Civic engagement and progressive movements
Religion
Diverse, with a strong Christian presence
Primarily Christian, with significant religious communities

Both Durham and Birmingham are known for their liberal and Democratic political leanings, highlighting a similarity in civic mindset despite the geographical move. Durham is particularly noted for its progressive policies and initiatives, pointing to a community that values social justice and reform. In contrast, Birmingham also presents a tapestry of civic engagement and progressive movements, with its residents actively participating in shaping the social landscape. The religious fabric of both cities is predominantly Christian, yet they embrace diversity in faith and practice, which is crucial for newcomers seeking community connections. Understanding these dynamics can ease the transition, making you feel more at home in your new city.

Durham vs. Birmingham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Durham, NC, to Birmingham, AL, brings a shift in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Birmingham aims to prepare you for what to expect on the roads and with public transportation in your new city.

Durham
Birmingham
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
24
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
3 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
With difficulty
No

In Durham, while the average commute time is slightly shorter, the traffic congestion is rated higher compared to Birmingham. This indicates you might spend less time in the car, but possibly face denser traffic in Durham. Public transit in Durham scores moderately, suggesting a semi-reliable network likely centered around the GoDurham bus service, making getting around without a car challenging but feasible. In contrast, Birmingham's lower public transit score and the strong suggestion that a car is necessary to navigate the city reflect a more car-dependent lifestyle. Understanding these differences can help you adjust your expectations and plan accordingly for your new daily commute in Birmingham.

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