Best Birmingham to Durham Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Birmingham to Durham Movers

Moving from the historic charm of Birmingham, AL, to the innovative spirit of Durham, NC, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. You're transitioning from the heart of the "Magic City," known for its rich civil rights history and southern hospitality, to "Bull City," a hub for education, healthcare, and cutting-edge research. In this pivotal moment, we understand the importance of entrusting your journey to professional movers who are not only trusted and reliable but have been rigorously evaluated by Great Guys Moving to ensure your belongings arrive safely, making this long-distance move as seamless as possible.

Alabama iconArrow iconNorth Carolina icon

Best Birmingham to Durham Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.43NRActiveContact
MoveDaddy9.38A+Authorized For HHGContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
New Latitude Movers9.27A+Authorized For HHGContact
Secure Moving Inc8.61A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Birmingham guide.

5 Best Birmingham to Durham Moving Companies

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

Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.43/10
based on 954+ data points

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

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
Exceptional9.38/10
based on 1,858+ data points

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

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
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 4,516+ data points

About Athens Moving Experts

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

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

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
Exceptional9.27/10
based on 1,265+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

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
Secure Moving Inc Logo
Fabulous8.61/10
based on 323+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

804775 / 358359

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved55,000 (2020)
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.

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.

BirminghamDurhamHow They're Similar
Highland ParkTrinity ParkHistoric homes, vibrant community
Forest ParkOld West DurhamArtsy vibe, tight-knit
Mountain BrookHope ValleyUpscale, green spaces
HomewoodWatts-HillandaleFamily-friendly, local shops
Five Points SouthNinth StreetDiverse cuisine, nightlife
Crestwood NorthCleveland-HollowayHistoric, emerging
AvondaleGeer StreetBooming food scene, arts
EdgewoodBrightleafQuirky shops, walkable
Glen IrisWarehouse DistrictUrban living, converted spaces
SouthsideAmerican Tobacco DistrictEntertainment, 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.

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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.

CONs
PROs
Birmingham, AL iconBirmingham, AL
  • Higher crime rate
  • Hotter summers
  • Less diverse job market
  • Smaller cultural scene
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower crime rate
  • Milder climate
  • Robust job market
  • Larger cultural scene
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Higher cost of living
  • Smaller local history scene
  • Heavier traffic
  • Fewer green spaces
Birmingham, AL iconBirmingham, 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.

BirminghamDurham
Most iconic local food itemBarbecue RibsPulled Pork Sandwich
Most popular meat dishFried CatfishCarolina-Style BBQ
Most popular street food itemHot DogsTacos
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit BBQ SandwichTofu Scramble
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Highlands Bar and Grill
  • SAW's BBQ
  • Hot and Hot Fish Club
  • Pizzeria Toro
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas
  • Nana's Restaurant
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.

BirminghamDurhamWhat You'll Love
Highlands Bar and GrillMateo Bar de TapasSpanish cuisine with a Southern twist, mirroring Highlands' blend of sophistication and regional flavors.
Hot and Hot Fish ClubSeafood at Saint JamesFresh, local seafood focus, offering a similar upscale and inventive dining experience.
Saw's Soul KitchenPicnicPit-smoked barbecue that captures the essence of Southern comfort food like Saw's.
Post Office PiesPizzeria ToroArtisan wood-fired pizzas that provide a comparable casual yet gourmet approach to pie making.
El BarrioGuasacaOffers a vibrant take on Latin American cuisine, emphasizing fresh ingredients and bold flavors similar to El Barrio.
Bottega CafeParizadeMediterranean-inspired dishes with an emphasis on ambiance and quality, akin to Bottega Cafe's charm.
Gianmarco’s RestaurantGocciolinaAn intimate Italian dining experience focusing on traditional flavors and handcrafted pasta, reflecting Gianmarco’s essence.
Fancy’s on FifthBurger BachGourmet burgers and a unique selection of sauces and sides, offering a similar upscale burger experience.
Trattoria CentraleMother & Sons TrattoriaAuthentic Italian fare that honors traditional techniques and ingredients, echoing Trattoria Centrale’s commitment to Italian cuisine.
Five Point Public House Oyster BarSaltbox Seafood JointThough 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.

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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.

ComparisonBirminghamDurham
Typical Architecture StyleColonial RevivalModern and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious Yards, Historic DetailsEco-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.

Summer icon
90°F / 71°F

Birmingham, AL

89°F / 68°F

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
54°F / 34°F

Birmingham, AL

50°F / 30°F

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
53 inches

Birmingham, AL

46 inches

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
2 inches

Birmingham, AL

6 inches

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBirminghamDurham
Air QualityGoodGood
Natural DisastersTornadoes, ThunderstormsHurricanes, 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.

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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.

ComparisonBirminghamDurham
Avg. Household Income$36,614$71,343
Cost of Living Index90.896.6
State Income Tax55.25
Avg. Property Tax0.650.85
Avg. Sales Tax97.5
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Manufacturing, TechnologyEducation, Health Services, Technology
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyHighModerate
HomelessnessConcerningLower

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.

BirminghamDurham
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerately progressiveVery progressive
ReligionPrimarily Christian, with a significant Baptist presence City of BirminghamReligiously 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.

ComparisonBirminghamDurham
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2422
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes, 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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