Best Birmingham to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Birmingham to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,344 mile move from Alabama to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 Birmingham to San Francisco 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 San Francisco. 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 San Francisco 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 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | New Latitude Movers | 9.26 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Secure Moving Inc | 8.58 | 7.84 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Birmingham to San Francisco
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,344 miles from Birmingham, AL to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $3,775 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Birmingham to San Francisco move is roughly $9,117. 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 | $2,531 | 300 ft³ | 8.44 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,775 | 450 ft³ | 8.39 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,253 | 750 ft³ | 8.34 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,117 | 1100 ft³ | 8.29 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,181 | 1600 ft³ | 8.24 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,738 | 1800 ft³ | 8.19 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Birmingham guide.
Compare the 5 Best Birmingham to San Francisco 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) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (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) |
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. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when it involves adapting to an entirely new local culture. To ease the transition, this guide aims to compare the local neighborhoods between Birmingham, AL & San Francisco, CA . By identifying neighborhoods in San Francisco that share the essence and vibe of your favorite spots in Birmingham, we help bridge the gap between the familiar and the new.
| Birmingham | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Highland Park | Pacific Heights | Both have historic charm with beautiful parks |
| Forest Park | Nob Hill | Residential areas near vibrant streets |
| Five Points South | The Mission | Cultural hubs with lively dining scenes |
| Mountain Brook | Presidio Heights | Affluent areas with upscale boutiques |
| Southside | Lower Haight | Diverse with a mix of restaurants and bars |
| Downtown | SoMa | Both are urban cores with a focus on innovation |
| Avondale | Haight-Ashbury | Historic, artsy neighborhoods with unique outlets |
| Homewood | Marina District | Family-friendly with waterfront attractions |
| Edgewood | Cole Valley | Quiet, cozy, and close-knit communities |
| Vestavia Hills | Sea Cliff | Exclusive, with spectacular views and homes |
In comparing Highland Park in Birmingham to Pacific Heights in San Francisco, you'll find both neighborhoods boast stunning historic homes and are flanked by lush, expansive parks such as Highland Park itself and Crissy Field. Food enthusiasts who relish the rich, eclectic dining options of Five Points South will be at home in The Mission, where eateries like La Taqueria offer some of the city's best bites. For those drawn to the artsy, vibrant spirit of Avondale, the Haight-Ashbury district, with landmarks such as the Haight Ashbury Street Fair, continues to embody the heart of San Francisco's historic counter-culture movement.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Birmingham to San Francisco
Moving from Birmingham, AL to San Francisco, CA is a significant transition with its share of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Birmingham, AL to San Francisco, CA , helping you weigh your options accurately.
Birmingham, AL- Less job opportunities
- Hot, humid summers
- Lower cultural diversity
- Limited public transportation
San Francisco, CA- Booming tech industry
- Mild, pleasant climate
- Rich cultural diversity
- Extensive public transit
San Francisco, CA- High cost of living
- Smaller living spaces
- Faster pace of life
- Expensive dining
Birmingham, AL- Lower cost of living
- Spacious housing
- Laid-back lifestyle
- Local Southern cuisine
When moving from Birmingham to San Francisco, you'll transition from a city known for its Southern charm to one celebrated for its iconic landmarks and diverse culture. In San Francisco, you can explore the bustling tech hubs of Silicon Valley, enjoy the scenic beauty of Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and immerse yourself in diverse cultural experiences in neighborhoods like Chinatown and Mission District. While Birmingham hosts a laid-back lifestyle with spacious homes, San Francisco offers a vibrant, fast-paced environment, albeit with higher living costs and smaller housing. Dining in San Francisco could mean savoring Michelin-starred meals and experiencing a range of international cuisine far more diverse than Birmingham's local southern dishes, though the cost of dining out can be significantly higher.
Birmingham vs. San Francisco Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Birmingham & San Francisco, showcasing how food is an integral part of local culture and daily living. By comparing these two vastly different food scenes, you'll be better prepared for what awaits your taste buds in your new home.
| Birmingham | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | BBQ Ribs | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Chicken | Clam Chowder in Sourdough |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Mission Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Plate | Vegan Ramen |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving from Birmingham to San Francisco, you'll notice a stark contrast in the food scene. Birmingham, known for its hearty Southern cuisine, offers classic comfort foods such as BBQ ribs and fried chicken. You can enjoy these traditional dishes at iconic spots like Highlands Bar and Grill and Saw's BBQ. On the other hand, San Francisco’s cuisine is influenced by its coastal location and diverse population, offering a variety of fresh, farm-to-table options and globally-inspired dishes. The city’s love for sourdough bread and the famous Mission burrito represents just a fraction of what’s available. Neighborhoods like the Mission District or eateries such as Tartine Bakery and The Slanted Door showcase the vast culinary diversity of San Francisco. Whether you're craving an innovative vegan experience or fresh seafood, San Francisco's food scene has something to satisfy every palate.
Birmingham vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering your new favorite eatery. This comparison between Birmingham's top restaurants and their San Francisco counterparts aims to ease your transition by pinpointing where you can find a taste of home. Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic flavors, this guide is crafted to help you navigate your culinary journey in the Bay Area.
| Birmingham | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Highlands Bar & Grill | Quince | Elegant, French-American cuisine with a similar commitment to fine dining. |
| Hot and Hot Fish Club | State Bird Provisions | Offers inventive small plates with a focus on seafood. |
| Saw's BBQ | 4505 Burgers & BBQ | Classic BBQ with a San Francisco twist, known for its brisket and ribs. |
| El Barrio | Nopalito | Authentic Mexican food with fresh, organic ingredients that echo El Barrio's quality. |
| Bottega Restaurant | Cotogna | Rustic Italian fare that mirrors Bottega's devotion to flavor and ambiance. |
| Frank Stitt's Chez Fonfon | Le P'tit Laurent | A cozy French bistro that captures Chez Fonfon's intimate atmosphere. |
| Ocean | Waterbar | Known for its expansive seafood selection and views, akin to Ocean's offerings. |
| The Bright Star | Swan Oyster Depot | A long-standing spot known for seafood, reflecting The Bright Star's historic charm. |
| Post Office Pies | Tony's Pizza Napoletana | Award-winning pizzas with a creative twist, similar to Post Office Pies' approach. |
| Highland's Bar and Grill | Gary Danko | Renowned for its innovation and service, akin to Highland's elegant dining experience. |
Relocating from Birmingham, AL to San Francisco, CA offers a chance to embark on a new culinary adventure while finding comfort in familiar flavors. For instance, if you cherished the sophisticated dining atmosphere at Highlands Bar & Grill, you'll find a similar upscale experience at Quince in San Francisco. Meanwhile, fans of Saw's BBQ will delight in the smoky flavors and hearty plates at 4505 Burgers & BBQ, ensuring your BBQ cravings are well taken care of. Lastly, Nopalito serves up authentic Mexican dishes with an emphasis on organic ingredients, mirroring the quality and authenticity you loved at El Barrio. This comparison isn’t just about locating similar restaurants; it’s about connecting you with the tastes of Birmingham in your new San Francisco home.
Ready to start your move?
Birmingham vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role in any relocation process. Understanding how housing options and characteristics stack up between Birmingham, AL, and San Francisco, CA, helps in making informed decisions for your big move. This comparison will highlight key aspects such as cost, architecture, walkability, and more.
| Comparison | Birmingham | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Colonial | Victorian, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, garages | Views, eco-friendly features |
In Birmingham, you'll find that the housing market comparatively offers more affordable home prices and rents. This city is characterized by its traditional Craftsman and Colonial-style homes, which often come with spacious yards and garages, catering to those who value privacy and space. On the other hand, San Francisco is renowned for its picturesque Victorian houses and modern residences that frequently boast views and eco-friendly features. The city's high degree of walkability and bikeability reflects its urban lifestyle, making it an ideal choice for those who thrive in a dynamic, city atmosphere. The drastic difference in living costs between these cities is significant, so it's crucial to weigh the cultural and lifestyle benefits against financial feasibility.
Birmingham vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather contrasts can greatly aid in your transition. This comparison focuses on the weather differences between Birmingham, AL, and San Francisco, CA, providing insights into what you can expect in your new home.
Birmingham, AL
San Francisco, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Birmingham, AL
San Francisco, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Birmingham, AL
San Francisco, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Birmingham, AL
San Francisco, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Birmingham | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Thunderstorms | Earthquakes, Fog |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Birmingham to San Francisco will introduce you to a milder climate year-round, with cooler summers and relatively warmer winters in San Francisco compared to the more extreme seasonal changes you might be used to in Birmingham. The significant difference in annual rainfall and snowfall highlights San Francisco's drier climate, offering more days of sunshine and less humidity, which could be a pleasant change. Moreover, while both cities face their natural disasters, preparing for earthquakes rather than tornadoes and considering the difference in top seasonal allergies will be essential for your transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Birmingham to San Francisco
Considering a move from Birmingham, AL to San Francisco, CA? It's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial aspects in these cities will impact your wallet. This comparison aims to equip you with a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of finance moving from Birmingham to San Francisco.
| Comparison | Birmingham | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,614 | $121,826 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.8 | 164 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.65 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9 | 8.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing | Technology, Finance, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
When transitioning from Birmingham to San Francisco, you'll face a stark contrast in financial realities. The average household income in San Francisco is notably higher, reflecting the city's thriving tech and finance sectors. However, this surge in income is counterbalanced by a significant hike in the cost of living index, with San Francisco being one of the most expensive cities in the US. State income tax also sees a sharp increase, the highest in the nation. Although average sales tax in San Francisco is slightly lower, the overall financial burden, including higher property taxes and living costs, can be substantial. This drastic change underscores the importance of thorough financial planning before making the move.
Birmingham vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move, understanding the local culture and community values is essential. This brief comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Birmingham, AL & San Francisco, CA . It's designed to give you insights into the demographics, helping you assimilate more smoothly into your new home.
| Birmingham | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Strongly Liberal |
| Local Politics | Mix of Democratic and Republican, with recent trends towards more progressive candidates | Primarily Democratic, with a strong focus on progressive and liberal policies |
| Religion | Highly Religious, Predominantly Christian Briarwood Presbyterian Church | More Secular, Diverse Religious Practices including San Francisco Zen Center |
While Birmingham's political landscape offers a more conservative tilt, San Francisco is widely recognized for its deeply rooted liberal values, affecting everything from policies to daily life. Local politics in Birmingham, although historically mixed, have leaned towards more progressive candidates recently, hinting at shifting cultural tides. However, San Francisco maintains a strongly Democratic stance, with a pronounced emphasis on progressive and liberal agendas. In terms of religion, Birmingham has a high religious observance rate, predominantly within the Christian faith, symbolized by institutions like the Briarwood Presbyterian Church. Conversely, San Francisco adopts a more secular mindset, with a wide array of religious beliefs and places of worship, such as the San Francisco Zen Center, reflecting its diverse population. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for the cultural adjustment awaiting you in San Francisco.
Birmingham vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences between driving and transiting in Birmingham, AL vs. San Francisco, CA will help you navigate your new city with ease. This comparison aims to provide a clearer idea of what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like after you move.
| Comparison | Birmingham | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
When comparing Birmingham to San Francisco, you'll immediately notice the differences in daily commute experiences. Birmingham offers a relatively swift average commute time of 24 minutes, with lower traffic congestion levels. However, the city's reliance on cars due to less available public transit options means you're likely to need a car for your day-to-day travel. On the other hand, San Francisco presents a different story with its higher traffic congestion but also boasts an extensive public transit system. This allows residents to comfortably navigate the city without the necessity of owning a car. Understanding these differences will help you adjust your expectations and plan accordingly for your move.
Additional Resources
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