Best Birmingham to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Birmingham to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,333 mile move from Alabama to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 19 Birmingham to Oakland 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Birmingham compared to Oakland. 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.
Best Birmingham to Oakland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | MoveDaddy | 9.38 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | New Latitude Movers | 9.26 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Secure Moving Inc | 8.58 | 7.84 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Birmingham to Oakland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,333 miles from Birmingham, AL to Oakland, CA will cost on average $3,765 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Birmingham to Oakland move is roughly $9,094. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,525 | 300 ft³ | 8.42 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,765 | 450 ft³ | 8.37 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,238 | 750 ft³ | 8.32 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,094 | 1100 ft³ | 8.27 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,147 | 1600 ft³ | 8.22 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,701 | 1800 ft³ | 8.17 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Birmingham guide.
Compare the 5 Best Birmingham to Oakland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
MoveDaddy
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2521318 / 875746 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 55,000 (2022) |
New Latitude Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2179652 / 765956 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 57 |
| Registered Drivers | 54 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 450,000 (2022) |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (2022) |
Secure Moving Inc
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 804775 / 358359 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 41,000 (2023) |
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.
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. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating from one city to another can feel like stepping into another world. To make this transition smoother, we've created a guide to compare local neighborhoods between Birmingham, AL & Oakland, CA . This comparison draws parallels between favorite neighborhoods to help you find a new community in Oakland that feels like home. Whether you cherish quiet streets, vibrant nightlife, or historic charm, find your perfect Oakland counterpart below.
| Birmingham | Oakland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Highland Park | Rockridge | historic homes, localized shopping |
| Five Points South | Temescal | vibrant nightlife and diverse restaurants |
| Forest Park | Piedmont Avenue | charming, walkable community |
| Mountain Brook | Montclair | upscale living, natural scenery |
| Homewood | Lakeshore | family-friendly vibe, local parks |
| Avondale | Grand Lake | artistic scene, weekend markets |
| Vestavia Hills | Claremont | quiet, residential area with good schools |
| Crestwood North | Glenview | historic homes, strong community feel |
| Southside | Uptown | cultural hub, entertainment options |
| Hoover | Redwood Heights | suburban feel, family-oriented |
Exploring these neighborhoods more deeply, you might find yourself enjoying a sunny afternoon at Lake Merritt in the Lakeshore neighborhood, reminiscent of Homewood's community-centric vibe with its mix of leisure activities and local parks. For those drawn to the artistic and vibrant atmosphere of Avondale, Grand Lake offers an equally intriguing cultural scene, including the famous Grand Lake Farmers' Market on Saturdays. If you find allure in the historic charm and walkability of Highland Park, Rockridge's tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and Craftsman-style houses might feel like a seamless transition. Each of these Oakland neighborhoods brings its unique flair but echoes the familiar charm of Birmingham's most beloved communities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Birmingham to Oakland
Moving from Birmingham, AL to Oakland, CA is a significant change that involves weighing various factors. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of both the good and bad attributes associated with this relocation. By examining the pros and cons through targeted charts, you can better understand what awaits you in Oakland versus what you're leaving behind in Birmingham.
Birmingham, AL- Higher crime rate
- Lesser job opportunities
- Humid summers
- Lower diversity
Oakland, CA- Diverse culture
- More job opportunities
- Milder climate
- Better food scene
Oakland, CA- Higher living costs
- Less community feel
- Lesser green spaces
- More traffic
Birmingham, AL- Lower living costs
- Strong community ties
- More green spaces
- Easy commuting
Moving to Oakland, CA from Birmingham, AL opens up a world of opportunities, particularly in terms of job markets and cultural diversity. Oakland boasts a vibrant food scene, with establishments like ShakeWell and Chop Bar offering a plethora of dining options. Additionally, the city's milder climate is a welcome change from Birmingham's humid summers, allowing for year-round enjoyment of outdoor activities in places like Lake Merritt and Joaquin Miller Park. However, it's vital to prepare for the higher living costs and the bustling traffic, typical of many California cities, which might take some adjustment. Embracing Oakland means navigating these challenges while relishing in the unique experiences and opportunities it has to offer.
Birmingham vs. Oakland Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Birmingham & Oakland, showcasing the diversity and culture through food. Food is an integral part of understanding a place's identity. By comparing these two cities, you'll gain insight into what culinary experiences you might expect when moving from Birmingham to Oakland.
| Birmingham | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fried Catfish | San Francisco Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Barbecue Ribs | Korean BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Gourmet Hot Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ Sandwich | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving from Birmingham to Oakland introduces you to a broader vegan scene, reflecting the latter city's higher health and fitness conscientiousness score. In Oakland, Temescal neighborhood is a food haven with a range of eateries offering diverse vegan options. Similarly, the abundance of food trucks in Oakland, especially around areas like Lake Merritt, ensures you're never far from innovative street food options like gourmet tacos. Iconic establishments such as Commis, with its renowned tasting menus, showcase the city's high foodie scene score. Meanwhile, Birmingham’s beloved Highlands Bar and Grill offers a taste of Southern charm that is hard to find elsewhere.
Birmingham vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
Finding the perfect dining spot is crucial in making a new city feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants from Birmingham, AL to their counterparts in Oakland, CA is designed to help you discover your next favorite dining destinations. Whether you're craving an upscale dinner or a casual bite, this guide uses your current hometown favorites to ease your transition.
| Birmingham | Oakland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Highlands Bar and Grill | Commis | High-end, James Beard award-winning dining |
| Hot and Hot Fish Club | Wood Tavern | Cozy vibe with upscale American cuisine |
| Saw's Soul Kitchen | Homeroom | Creative and comfort-driven American food |
| Bottega Restaurant | Belotti Ristorante e Bottega | Authentic Italian fare in a chic setting |
| Miss Myra’s Pit Bar-B-Q | Everett & Jones Barbeque | Iconic BBQ with a long history |
| El Barrio | Calavera | Innovative Mexican cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere |
| Post Office Pies | Boot and Shoe Service | Artisanal pizzas in a rustic-chic space |
| OvenBird | Dyafa | Middle Eastern-inspired dishes with a modern twist |
| Fancy’s on Fifth | Mua | Hip spot for eclectic eats in an industrial setting |
| Automatic Seafood and Oysters | The Cook and Her Farmer | Fresh seafood and oyster bar with a cozy feel |
Exploring new culinary landscapes can be one of the most exciting aspects of moving to a new city. For those who have cherished dining at Highlands Bar and Grill in Birmingham, Commis in Oakland offers a similarly elevated dining experience with its inventive dishes and attention to detail, securing its place among America's top restaurants. If your comfort food in Birmingham was found at Saw's Soul Kitchen, then Homeroom in Oakland will welcome you with its comforting and innovative takes on American classics. Lastly, for fans of the cozy and warm ambience at OvenBird, Dyafa presents an opportunity to broaden your culinary horizons with Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine, melding traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques in an inviting atmosphere. This guide not only maps your familiar tastes from Birmingham to your new Oakland haunts but also invites you to embrace the diverse culinary landscape Oakland has to offer.
Ready to start your move?
Birmingham vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
Understanding the differences in real estate is crucial when considering a move from Birmingham, AL, to Oakland, CA. This comparison will highlight the distinctions in housing aspects such as cost, architecture, walkability, and urban lifestyle between Birmingham and Oakland , ensuring you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Birmingham | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Cottage | Victorian and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large Yards, Quiet Streets | Proximity to Transit, Views |
When moving from Birmingham to Oakland, you're not just transitioning between two cities, but also shifting to a considerably different lifestyle, especially in terms of housing. The median home price in Oakland is significantly higher than in Birmingham, reflecting the premium for living in a denser, more urban environment with ready access to San Francisco and Silicon Valley. Oakland's architecture includes a mix of Victorian and modern styles, characteristic of its diverse and evolving urban fabric. The higher walkability and bikeability scores in Oakland attest to a city layout that encourages less reliance on cars, promoting sustainability and an active urban lifestyle. The demand for proximity to transit and scenic views in Oakland contrasts sharply with Birmingham's preference for spacious yards and quiet suburban streets, illustrating the different priorities that might influence your decision when relocating.
Birmingham vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another can bring a host of changes, among the most noticeable being the weather patterns . Understanding how Birmingham, AL weather compares to Oakland, CA will help you prepare for your new environment. This comparison aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect weather-wise in your new city.
Birmingham, AL
Oakland, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Birmingham, AL
Oakland, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Birmingham, AL
Oakland, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Birmingham, AL
Oakland, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Birmingham | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Thunderstorms | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Birmingham to Oakland, one of the most comforting changes might be the milder summer temperatures and the notable increase in days of sunshine per year. However, it's important to note that the seemingly higher humidity in Oakland doesn't translate to more discomfort, thanks to cooler prevailing temperatures throughout the year. Additionally, while Birmingham residents may be accustomed to preparing for tornadoes and thunderstorms, in Oakland, earthquake readiness becomes a new priority. The shift in air quality from moderate to good in Oakland is also a pleasant change, potentially beneficial for those with respiratory issues or outdoor enthusiasts. Understanding these differences helps ease the transition and sets expectations for life in Oakland.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Birmingham to Oakland
When planning a move from Birmingham, AL, to Oakland, CA, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison will help outline the differences in costs and economic conditions between Birmingham and Oakland to better prepare you for your relocation.
| Comparison | Birmingham | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,614 | $82,236 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.8 | 139.1 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.65 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Finance | Technology, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
Moving from Birmingham to Oakland, you’ll notice a significant increase in the cost of living, with Oakland's index more than double that of Birmingham. While average household income is higher in Oakland, the state income tax and property tax rates are also higher, impacting your net income. Additionally, the shift in the top industries suggests a diversification of job opportunities, particularly in technology for Oakland. Despite the financial differences, both cities present unique economic environments and opportunities for growth and prosperity.
Birmingham vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison
When preparing for such a significant move from Birmingham, AL to Oakland, CA, understanding the community you're about to join is crucial. This quick, at-a-glance comparison focuses on the politics and religion between Birmingham & Oakland , providing insight into the typical political and religious makeup of these cities.
| Birmingham | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Strongly Liberal |
| Local Politics | Mixed, with a recent tilt towards progressive candidates | Very progressive, with focused efforts on social and environmental issues |
| Religion | Primarily Christian, with a significant percentage of Baptists | Diverse, including Christianity with leanings towards non-denominational and various other faiths |
In moving from Birmingham to Oakland, you'll transition from a community with a conservative lean to one that is ardently liberal, particularly in terms of local government and initiatives. This reflects not just in politics but in community actions and priorities, such as Oakland's stronger emphasis on social justice and environmental sustainability. Religion, while diverse in both cities, will present you with a broader spectrum of practices in Oakland. Whether you're attending a service at a local Oakland church or engaging in community activism, you'll find that the city's culture is deeply woven with progressive values.
Birmingham vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when relocating. Here, we compare the traffic and transportation options between Birmingham & Oakland to help you visualize what getting around in your new city might be like.
| Comparison | Birmingham | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 32 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
While Birmingham offers a shorter average commute time, traffic congestion is significantly lower compared to Oakland. However, Oakland triumphs when it comes to public transit availability, making it easier to navigate without a personal vehicle. Living in Oakland means you can take advantage of the robust public transit system, including the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and buses, which significantly reduces the necessity of owning a car. This contrasts with Birmingham, where the less extensive public transit options might necessitate having your own transportation for a more convenient commute.
Additional Resources
Birmingham Moving Services
Popular Birmingham to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
