Best Birmingham to Durham Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Birmingham to Durham and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 533 mile move from Alabama to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Birmingham to Durham moving companies and more than 15,000 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 Birmingham compared to Durham. 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 Durham Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | MoveDaddy | 9.38 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | New Latitude Movers | 9.26 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Secure Moving Inc | 8.59 | 7.84 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Birmingham to Durham
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 533 miles from Birmingham, AL to Durham, NC will cost on average $2,234 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Birmingham to Durham move is roughly $5,352. 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 | $1,505 | 300 ft³ | 5.02 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,234 | 450 ft³ | 4.97 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,687 | 750 ft³ | 4.92 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,352 | 1100 ft³ | 4.87 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,705 | 1600 ft³ | 4.82 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,578 | 1800 ft³ | 4.77 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Birmingham guide.
Compare the 5 Best Birmingham to Durham Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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) |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
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. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
When considering a move from one city to another, familiarizing yourself with the new location's neighborhoods is key. This guide aims to ease this transition by providing a comparison of local neighborhoods between Birmingham, AL & Durham, NC . By comparing the two, you can find a new neighborhood that mirrors the comforts of your current one, making the move feel like you're just shifting from one home to another.
| Birmingham | Durham | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Highland Park | Trinity Park | Historic homes, vibrant community |
| Forest Park | Old West Durham | Artsy vibe, tight-knit |
| Mountain Brook | Hope Valley | Upscale, green spaces |
| Homewood | Watts-Hillandale | Family-friendly, local shops |
| Five Points South | Ninth Street | Diverse cuisine, nightlife |
| Crestwood North | Cleveland-Holloway | Historic, emerging |
| Avondale | Geer Street | Booming food scene, arts |
| Edgewood | Brightleaf | Quirky shops, walkable |
| Glen Iris | Warehouse District | Urban living, converted spaces |
| Southside | American Tobacco District | Entertainment, historic |
In the heart of Birmingham, Highland Park's historic homes and lush parks find their counterpart in Durham's Trinity Park—a neighborhood boasting similar architectural charm and a strong sense of community. Similarly, the artsy and tight-knit feel of Forest Park is mirrored in Old West Durham, where local art and communal events abound. For those seeking the upscale suburban feel of Mountain Brook, Durham's Hope Valley offers comparable luxurious living with sprawling green spaces and meticulously planned landscaping. Meanwhile, the diverse culinary scene and lively nightlife of Five Points South are closely matched by Durham's Ninth Street, known for its wide array of dining options and vibrant atmosphere. These comparisons illustrate not just the physical similarities between neighborhoods but also the shared values and lifestyles of their residents, ensuring that your move from Birmingham to Durham will feel as seamless as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Birmingham to Durham
Moving from Birmingham, AL to Durham, NC requires a careful balance of expectations and reality. This comparison aims to highlight the deliberate transition between these two vibrant cities . Understand both the setbacks and advantages to make an informed decision about your relocation.
Birmingham, AL- Higher crime rate
- Hotter summers
- Less diverse job market
- Smaller cultural scene
Durham, NC- Lower crime rate
- Milder climate
- Robust job market
- Larger cultural scene
Durham, NC- Higher cost of living
- Smaller local history scene
- Heavier traffic
- Fewer green spaces
Birmingham, AL- Lower cost of living
- Rich local history
- Easier traffic
- More green spaces
Moving from Birmingham to Durham presents new opportunities and challenges. In Durham, you are greeted by a thriving cultural and job market, supported by institutions like Duke University and the Research Triangle Park, renowned for innovation and research. Though summers in Durham are milder, the city's vibrant cultural scene - from the historic Carolina Theatre to the bustling streets of Downtown Durham - more than makes up for the climate change. However, this comes at the cost of a higher living expense and busier roads. Yet, for those seeking an active lifestyle, Durham's renowned parks, such as the Eno River State Park, offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities, making it a compelling choice for many.
Birmingham vs. Durham Food Guide
Food is a central part of local culture and gives insight into what living in an area is really like. In this guide, we'll highlight the differences in the food scene so you can have a taste of what to expect. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Birmingham & Durham, exploring everything from iconic dishes to the vibrancy of each city's foodie scene.
| Birmingham | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Barbecue Ribs | Pulled Pork Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Catfish | Carolina-Style BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ Sandwich | Tofu Scramble |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Birmingham to Durham, you'll find yourself transitioning from a city known for its hearty meat dishes, like barbecue ribs and fried catfish, to one where the Carolina-style BBQ reigns supreme. Durham is known for its pulled pork sandwiches, a local favorite found in many neighborhood joints. The food truck scene in Durham is particularly vibrant, offering a wide variety of cuisines, including popular street tacos. For those with a plant-based diet, Durham offers a more diverse selection with options such as tofu scramble being widely available. Not to be missed is a visit to Mateo Bar de Tapas for a taste of Spanish cuisine or Pizzeria Toro for some of the best pizzas in town. Whether you're sampling street food or dining in an iconic restaurant, Durham's food scene is sure to delight.
Birmingham vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering your next favorite meal. This restaurant comparison between Birmingham, AL, and Durham, NC, aims to bridge the gap between familiar flavors and new culinary adventures. Whether you're seeking high-end dining, casual bites, or unique foodie experiences, we've got you covered in your quest to make Durham feel like home.
| Birmingham | Durham | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Highlands Bar and Grill | Mateo Bar de Tapas | Spanish cuisine with a Southern twist, mirroring Highlands' blend of sophistication and regional flavors. |
| Hot and Hot Fish Club | Seafood at Saint James | Fresh, local seafood focus, offering a similar upscale and inventive dining experience. |
| Saw's Soul Kitchen | Picnic | Pit-smoked barbecue that captures the essence of Southern comfort food like Saw's. |
| Post Office Pies | Pizzeria Toro | Artisan wood-fired pizzas that provide a comparable casual yet gourmet approach to pie making. |
| El Barrio | Guasaca | Offers a vibrant take on Latin American cuisine, emphasizing fresh ingredients and bold flavors similar to El Barrio. |
| Bottega Cafe | Parizade | Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an emphasis on ambiance and quality, akin to Bottega Cafe's charm. |
| Gianmarco’s Restaurant | Gocciolina | An intimate Italian dining experience focusing on traditional flavors and handcrafted pasta, reflecting Gianmarco’s essence. |
| Fancy’s on Fifth | Burger Bach | Gourmet burgers and a unique selection of sauces and sides, offering a similar upscale burger experience. |
| Trattoria Centrale | Mother & Sons Trattoria | Authentic Italian fare that honors traditional techniques and ingredients, echoing Trattoria Centrale’s commitment to Italian cuisine. |
| Five Point Public House Oyster Bar | Saltbox Seafood Joint | Though more casual, it’s known for fresh, locally-sourced seafood, aligning with Five Point's quality and diversity. |
In the quest for new dining favorites, Durham's culinary scene does not disappoint, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that resonate with Birmingham's diverse foodie landscape. For example, the transition from Gianmarco’s intimate Italian settings to Gocciolina's cozy atmosphere ensures that the essence of enjoying handcrafted pasta isn't lost in the move. Furthermore, barbecue enthusiasts transitioning from Saw's Soul Kitchen in Birmingham will find solace in Picnic's commitment to pit-smoked flavors entrenched in Southern tradition. Moreover, the comparison emphasizes not just the similarity in food quality, but also the dining experience—a crucial aspect of making a new city feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Birmingham vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, investigating real estate is crucial in understanding how your new environment could look and feel. Comparing Birmingham, AL to Durham, NC provides insight into one of the most significant aspects of relocating. Let's delve into the housing landscape of these two cities.
| Comparison | Birmingham | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Modern and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious Yards, Historic Details | Eco-friendly Features, Proximity to Universities |
The contrast in median home prices and rent between Birmingham and Durham reflects the broader economic and lifestyle offerings of each city. Durham's higher median home price is indicative of its thriving job market, especially in tech and academia, with institutions like Duke University influencing local real estate. This is further reflected in the real estate listings, where Durham homes often boast of eco-friendly features and proximity to academic institutions, a sharp contrast to Birmingham's larger lots and historical details that appeal to those seeking space and historical charm. Furthermore, Durham's better scores in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle also suggest a more dynamic and potentially convenient city life compared to Birmingham.
Birmingham vs. Durham Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Birmingham, AL to Durham, NC, it's crucial to consider how the weather compares between these two cities. Understanding the differences will help you anticipate and adapt to your new environment efficiently. This comparison will offer a glimpse into what you can expect in terms of temperature, sunshine, and precipitation in your new home.
Birmingham, AL
Durham, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Birmingham, AL
Durham, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Birmingham, AL
Durham, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Birmingham, AL
Durham, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Birmingham | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Thunderstorms | Hurricanes, Ice Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Birmingham and Durham enjoy a relatively high number of sunshine days per year, you'll find that winters are slightly colder in Durham with more snowfall on average, 6 inches versus Birmingham's 2 inches. Durham also benefits from slightly lower humidity and annual rainfall, which might make summers feel a bit more comfortable. However, one notable difference in the climate hazards includes Birmingham's greater risk for tornadoes, while Durham is more susceptible to hurricanes and ice storms. Understanding these nuances can help you better prepare for your transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Birmingham to Durham
When considering a move from Birmingham, AL to Durham, NC, it's crucial to weigh the financial differences between these two cities. Understanding the cost of living, taxation, and income levels in Birmingham and Durham will help you make an informed decision about this significant life change.
| Comparison | Birmingham | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,614 | $71,343 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.8 | 96.6 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.65 | 0.85 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9 | 7.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Technology | Education, Health Services, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Lower |
Comparing the financial landscapes of Birmingham and Durham reveals a broader economic context for your potential relocation. With an average household income notably higher in Durham, combined with its affluence being described as high, the city seems to offer more robust economic opportunities. However, this advantage comes with a higher cost of living index and property taxes, which might affect your budgeting. Despite these cost increases, Durham's lower sales tax rate could offset some daily living expenses. Understanding these economic factors is key to anticipating the changes in your financial life following your move.
Birmingham vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics between Birmingham & Durham offers a quick glance at the contrasts and similarities in their political leanings and religious affiliations, providing an essential snapshot for anyone considering a move.
| Birmingham | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderately progressive | Very progressive |
| Religion | Primarily Christian, with a significant Baptist presence City of Birmingham | Religiously diverse, with a notable Christian population City of Durham |
While both Birmingham and Durham share a Democratic leaning, Durham's political climate is notably more progressive, which is reflected in both the local government and community initiatives. This could be a significant factor for those who are deeply involved in political activism or who place high importance on local governance aligning closely with their personal views. On the religious front, Birmingham's significant Baptist community encompasses a broad range of churches, including some nationally recognized congregations. Meanwhile, Durham's religious diversity includes not only a variety of Christian denominations but also a range of other faiths, contributing to a rich, multicultural environment. This blend of political and religious landscapes can significantly impact your day-to-day life, particularly in terms of community engagement and local culture.
Birmingham vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Birmingham, AL, to Durham, NC, brings a change in your daily commute and traffic. To better understand what that looks like, this is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Birmingham & Durham.
| Comparison | Birmingham | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, but challenging |
The average commute time in Durham is slightly less than in Birmingham, hinting at a more efficient traffic flow or potentially more proximal work locations. While both cities experience relatively low traffic congestion, Durham boasts better public transit options, making it marginally easier to navigate without a car. However, in both regions, possessing a vehicle enhances mobility and convenience. Understanding these nuances can help you anticipate and adapt to your new daily routines as you transition from Birmingham to Durham.
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