Best Birmingham to Washington Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the historic charm of Birmingham, AL to the bustling political heartbeat of Washington, DC, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. Leaving behind the "Magic City" for the chance to explore the "Capital of the World," you're not just changing addresses but stepping into a rich tapestry of diverse foods, neighborhoods, and cultures. Understanding the complexities of such a long-distance move underscores the importance of having trusted and reliable professional movers by your side, a mission we at Great Guys Moving take seriously, ensuring you're matched with the best in the business.
Best Birmingham to Washington Moving Companies
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington to Birmingham guide.
5 Best Birmingham to Washington Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and co...Read More >>
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
About MoveDaddy
Move Daddy offers a wide variety of moving services in Birmingham, including full-service residential and commercial moves, moving labor onl...Read More >>
Services
- Long Distance moving
- Local moving
- Cross-country moving
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 compa...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Storage Facilities
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 an agent...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
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. Washington Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison that employs Birmingham, AL & Washington DC, DC local neighborhoods as a baseline. This will help you find a new neighborhood in Washington DC that shares the vibe and community feel of your current Birmingham home.
Birmingham | Washington | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Highland Park | Capitol Hill | Historic charm, close-knit community |
Mountain Brook | Georgetown | Upscale, historic shopping districts |
Forest Park | Cleveland Park | Green spaces, family-friendly |
Arlington-West End | Petworth | Diverse, vibrant neighborhoods |
Southside | Adams Morgan | Nightlife, eclectic dining |
Five Points South | Dupont Circle | Entertainment hub, historic |
Avondale | H Street Corridor | Artsy, up-and-coming area |
Glen Iris | Bloomingdale | Quiet, residential with a strong sense of community |
Homewood | Columbia Heights | Urban, diverse community |
Hoover | Friendship Heights | Shopping, upscale living |
If you adore the historic charm and close-knit community feel of Highland Park, you'll likely find a similar atmosphere in Capitol Hill, known for its historic buildings and active neighborhood associations. For those drawn to the upscale shopping and fine dining of Mountain Brook, Georgetown's elegant boutiques and gourmet restaurants nestled within cobblestone streets could be your new favorite. Admiring the vibrant arts scene and craftsman-style homes of Avondale? The H Street Corridor in DC presents an eclectic mix of galleries, live music venues, and dining, encapsulating an artistic spirit reminiscent of Avondale's renaissance. Whether you're enjoying the outdoor activities of Forest Park or the bustling nightlife of Southside, Washington DC offers neighborhoods that echo the charm and character of Birmingham, providing a sense of familiarity amidst new urban surroundings.
Things to Do in Washington
- Visit the Smithsonian Museums for free.
- Stroll around the Tidal Basin during cherry blossom season.
- Catch a Nationals game at Nationals Park.
- Enjoy kayaking on the Potomac River.
- Explore historic Georgetown’s shops and alleyways.
- Hike or bike the scenic C&O Canal Towpath.
- Experience the nightlife in the Adams Morgan neighborhood.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Birmingham to Washington
Moving from Birmingham, AL to Washington DC, DC involves considering all aspects of the transition. This dual-perspective analysis helps in highlighting an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, making your decision-making process broader and well-informed.
- Lower job opportunities
- Smaller cultural scene
- Less public transit
- Hot, humid summers
- Higher job opportunities
- Larger cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
- Four distinct seasons
- Higher cost of living
- Smaller living spaces
- More impersonal
- Busier and noisier
- Lower cost of living
- Spacious living spaces
- Close-knit communities
- Quieter environment
Moving from Birmingham, AL to Washington DC unveils a world brimming with opportunities and cultural vibrancy, yet this transition comes with its set of challenges. Birmingham's laid-back atmosphere and affordable living conditions contrast starkly with DC's bustling urban life and higher living expenses. However, the change might be worth it for those seeking a richer cultural scene, more job opportunities, and access to historical and political landmarks. DC's extensive public transit system, including the Washington Metro, makes commuting more manageable than in Birmingham. Neighborhoods like Georgetown offer quaint cobblestone streets lined with upscale boutiques and restaurants like Fiola Mare, while the Smithsonian museums provide endless educational entertainment free of charge. This relocation, albeit daunting, promises personal growth and an enriched lifestyle in the nation's capital.
Birmingham vs. Washington Food Guide
As you prepare to relocate, understanding the local cuisine offers a glimpse into the cultural fabric of your new home. This comparison of the local cuisine between Birmingham & Washington DC will help you dive into the culinary scene, making the transition more flavorful.
Birmingham | Washington | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | BBQ Ribs | Half-Smoke |
Most popular meat dish | Fried Catfish | Chicken and Waffles |
Most popular street food item | Gourmet Hot Dogs | Food Truck Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Beyond Meat BBQ Sandwich | Vegetable Ramen |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you explore Washington DC, you'll discover a rich tapestry of cuisines that reflect its diverse population. The city's reverence for the half-smoke can be fully appreciated at local favorite Ben’s Chili Bowl. Venturing into the food truck scene reveals a treasure trove of flavors, particularly around neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and the U Street Corridor, where you can enjoy everything from authentic tacos to innovative vegan dishes. Washington DC’s commitment to health and fitness is evident in its abundant vegan options and health-conscious eateries, making it easy to maintain a balanced lifestyle amidst the city's bustling culinary landscape.
Birmingham vs. Washington Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a monumental task, especially when finding comfort in local eateries that remind you of home. This comparison is specifically designed to ease the transition for someone moving from Birmingham, Alabama to Washington DC, highlighting restaurants that will help you discover your new favorite dining spots based on similarities with your beloved locales back home.
Birmingham | Washington | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Highlands Bar and Grill | Pineapple and Pearls | Fine dining with a focus on meticulous presentation and a welcoming atmosphere. |
Saw’s Soul Kitchen | Acadiana | Southern comfort food with a twist, offering a taste of home away from home. |
Hot and Hot Fish Club | Whaley's | Fresh seafood focused, showcases the best of what the coast has to offer. |
Post Office Pies | 2 Amys Neapolitan Pizzeria | Known for their wood-fired pizzas and a casual yet authentic vibe. |
El Barrio | Oyamel | Innovative Mexican cuisine, drawing parallels in creativity and bold flavors. |
Frank Stitt's Bottega Restaurant | Centrolina | Italian cuisine with a modern twist, celebrating fresh ingredients and simple elegance. |
Rodney Scott’s BBQ | DCity Smokehouse | A true BBQ joint with a focus on smoked meats and hearty sides. |
The Bright Star | Old Ebbitt Grill | Iconic and steeped in history, offering American classics and a timeless dining experience. |
Gianmarco’s | Fiola Mare | Bringing Italian seafood expertise to the waterfront, known for its elegance and quality. |
Automatic Seafood & Oysters | Pearl Dive Oyster Palace | Specializing in oysters and seafood, capturing the essence of fresh ocean fare. |
Each restaurant listed provides not just a meal, but an experience akin to what you cherished back in Birmingham, with the additional flair and uniqueness of Washington DC's culinary scene. For instance, Highlands Bar and Grill, cherished for its elevated dining experience, finds its match in Pineapple and Pearls, where attention to detail and the dining experience is paramount. Similarly, lovers of the bold and innovative Mexican flavors at El Barrio will find solace in Oyamel’s creative approach to Mexican cuisine. For those who can't live without their weekly BBQ fix, the transition from Rodney Scott’s BBQ to DCity Smokehouse will be seamless, offering that rich, smoky goodness you've grown to love. Each of these restaurants has been chosen not just for their culinary similarities but also for the ambiance and spirit they embody, ensuring you feel right at home in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Birmingham vs. Washington Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate greatly influences the outcome of a move, making it crucial to compare the characteristics of housing between Birmingham, AL and Washington, DC. Understanding these differences helps in making an informed decision. Comparison of real estate aspects between Birmingham, AL and Washington, DC reveals insights into cost, architecture, and lifestyle , which are pivotal during relocation.
Comparison | Birmingham | Washington |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival, Bungalow | Victorian, Federal |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large lots, Quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to Metro, Rooftop decks |
The jump from Birmingham's median home price to Washington, DC's reflects not just a change in the cost of living, but also a shift in lifestyle and environment. While Birmingham offers spacious lots and a more suburban feel, reflected in its lower walkability and bikeability scores, Washington, DC affords an urban, active lifestyle with easy access to public transportation, specifically the Metro, which is frequently highlighted in its real estate listings. The architectural styles also shift from the traditional Colonial Revival and Bungalow homes in Birmingham to the historic Victorian and Federal styles in Washington, DC, reflecting the cities' distinct historical influences and cultural atmospheres.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Washington, DC
1. Adams Morgan: Known for its vibrant street life and diverse culture, Adams Morgan is extremely pet-friendly, offering numerous pet-friendly restaurants and dog parks like the Walter Pierce Park where your furry friends can play.
2. Capitol Hill: Aside from the iconic U.S. Capitol and historic ambiance, Capitol Hill features spacious parks such as the Congressional Cemetery, which doubles as a dog park, providing a unique space for you and your pet to explore.
3. Dupont Circle: This neighborhood boasts a welcoming atmosphere for pet owners, with several pet-friendly parks like the Dupont Circle Fountain, and businesses that cater to your pet's needs, making it an ideal place for pet lovers.
Birmingham vs. Washington Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to consider how the weather will change. Understanding the differences between Birmingham, AL, and Washington DC, DC weather will help you adjust more easily to your new environment.
Birmingham, AL
Washington, DC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Birmingham, AL
Washington, DC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Birmingham, AL
Washington, DC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Birmingham, AL
Washington, DC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Birmingham | Washington |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Tornados, Thunderstorms | Snowstorms, Hurricanes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Birmingham and Washington DC share similar average summer temperatures, winters in Washington DC tend to be cooler and snowier. This is a key consideration if you're not used to dealing with snow and ice. Washington DC experiences fewer days of sunshine and slightly lower humidity levels, which could be a pleasant change if you find Birmingham summers too muggy. The risk of natural disasters shifts from tornados in Birmingham to snowstorms and hurricanes in Washington DC, necessitating different preparedness strategies. Adapting to these weather differences will be an important part of your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Birmingham to Washington
When considering a move, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living in Birmingham compares to Washington DC. This comparison will help you gauge the financial changes you should expect, ensuring a smoother transition between these two distinct locations.
Comparison | Birmingham | Washington |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $36,614 | $90,088 |
Cost of Living Index | 90.8 | 140.1 |
State Income Tax | 5 | No state income tax, but federal district tax varies |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.68 | 0.55 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 10 | 6 |
Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Finance | Government, Professional Services, Tourism |
Affluence | Moderate | High |
Poverty | Moderate | Comparatively Low |
Homelessness | Moderate | Comparatively Low |
The provided chart sheds light on significant financial distinctions between Birmingham and Washington DC. Notably, the average household income in DC is substantially higher, which correlates with its significantly higher cost of living index. Though Washington DC has a lower sales tax and property tax rate compared to Birmingham, the elevated cost of living can offset these financial advantages. Additionally, the industry sectors dominating each city's economy are markedly different, which could influence job opportunities. Understanding these contrasts is vital for anyone planning to relocate, as it will impact your budgeting and lifestyle choices.
Birmingham vs. Washington Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics between Birmingham & Washington DC provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities. By understanding these differences, you can better anticipate the cultural landscape of your new home.
Birmingham | Washington | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
Local Politics | Conservative influence | Liberal, progressive policies |
Religion | Christian majority, various churches | Diverse religious landscape, many faith communities |
When moving from Birmingham to Washington DC, you'll transition from a city with a Christian majority and conservative influence in local politics to one known for its liberal, progressive policies and a diverse religious landscape. The shift can be significant given Washington's stronger alignment with Democratic values and its varied array of faith communities. Understanding these dynamics can help you navigate your new community more smoothly, respecting and engaging with the mosaic of beliefs and political opinions you'll find in your new home.
Birmingham vs. Washington Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This section aims to enhance your understanding of the daily commute and traffic differences between Birmingham, AL and Washington DC, DC. Knowing what to expect can significantly ease your transition to a new city.
Comparison | Birmingham | Washington |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 30 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
In Birmingham, the average commute time is slightly shorter, and traffic congestion is less of an issue than in Washington DC. However, Birmingham's public transit options are limited, making it challenging to rely solely on public transportation. On the other hand, Washington DC boasts an extensive public transit system, including the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), making it easier for residents to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. This difference significantly impacts daily life, influencing everything from your commute times to your living expenses and environmental footprint.
Popular Birmingham, AL to DC Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes