Best Birmingham to Seattle Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the historic charm of Birmingham, AL, to the bustling tech hub of Seattle, WA, marks an exhilarating shift in scenery and lifestyle. You're trading the Heart of Dixie, with its rich cultural tapestry and southern cuisine, for the Emerald City, known for its innovative spirit and stunning natural vistas. For such a significant journey, it's crucial to enlist trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the importance of this transition and offer you the best options to ensure a smooth relocation.
Best Birmingham to Seattle Moving Companies
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Birmingham guide.
5 Best Birmingham to Seattle Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential 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 People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. To help ease this transition, we've created a guide that compares local neighborhoods between Birmingham, AL & Seattle, WA . This comparison is designed to help you find neighborhoods in Seattle that share the charm and characteristics of your favorite spots in Birmingham, making your move feel a little more like coming home.
Birmingham | Seattle | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Highland Park | Capitol Hill | Vibrant nightlife, historic homes |
Mountain Brook | Madison Park | Affluent, with waterfront parks |
Forest Park | Ballard | Trendy, with a mix of old & new |
Southside | Fremont | Bohemian vibe, arts scene |
Avondale | Greenwood | Upcoming, craft breweries |
Homewood | Wallingford | Family-friendly, boutique shops |
Vestavia Hills | Queen Anne | Upscale, with a quiet charm |
Hoover | Magnolia | Suburban feel, close to nature |
Downtown | Downtown | Urban living, cultural heart |
Five Points South | Belltown | Nightlife, dining variety |
If the lively arts scene and the historic charm of Avondale have captivated you in Birmingham, then Seattle's Greenwood neighborhood will feel like a fresh continuation with its growing reputation for craft breweries like Fremont Brewing, and eclectic events. Similarly, if you appreciate the upscale yet homely atmosphere of Mountain Brook, Madison Park in Seattle offers a similar vibe but adds the bonus of breathtaking waterfront views and parks like Madison Park North Beach, perfect for an afternoon stroll or a weekend picnic. For those drawn to the vibrant energy and diversity of Downtown Birmingham, Seattle’s Downtown will captivate you with its bustling streets, cultural landmarks like Pike Place Market, and an array of dining and shopping options, embodying the urban pulse of the city.
Things to Do in Seattle
- Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.
- Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
- Relax at Green Lake Park.
- Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
- Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
- Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Birmingham to Seattle
Moving can be a monumental task, especially when it involves changing not just your address but your lifestyle and the very environment you're used to. This comparison aims to honestly reflect the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Birmingham, AL to Seattle, WA, helping you weigh your decision with a clear perspective.
- Less cultural diversity
- Hot, humid summers
- Limited job market
- Minimal public transit
- Smaller tech community
- Rich cultural diversity
- Milder, cooler summers
- Strong tech job market
- Extensive public transit
- Large tech community
- High cost of living
- Frequent rain
- Smaller living spaces
- Faster pace of life
- More individualistic
- Low cost of living
- Warm, sunny weather
- Spacious living
- Slower pace of life
- Strong sense of community
While weighing the pros and cons of moving from Birmingham to Seattle, it's the nuances of everyday life that might tip the scales. Imagine trading the tightly-knit community of Avondale in Birmingham, known for its cozy cafes like Avondale Coffee Club, for the vibrant streets of Capitol Hill in Seattle, a place buzzing with cultural festivals, indie bookstores like Elliott Bay Book Company, and avant-garde restaurants. Although Seattle's frequent rain might dampen your mood initially, the city's abundant green spaces, such as the serene Green Lake Park, offer a refreshing outdoor escape not found in the urban sprawl of Birmingham. Each city offers a unique set of advantages and drawbacks with Seattle presenting an exciting, albeit pricier, shift in lifestyle and opportunities.
Birmingham vs. Seattle Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Birmingham & Seattle, highlighting the importance of food as a part of local culture and what it’s like to live in an area. Understanding the food scene is essential for anyone planning to relocate, ensuring you’re well-informed about what culinary experiences await.
Birmingham | Seattle | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Barbecue ribs | Salmon |
Most popular meat dish | Fried Catfish | Pho |
Most popular street food item | Gourmet hot dogs | Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Tempeh Reuben |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In both Birmingham and Seattle, the local cuisine reflects each city's unique culture and history. In Birmingham, the barbecue scene is king, with Saw's BBQ standing out for its authentic Southern flavors. Meanwhile, Seattle's seafood, especially salmon from establishments like Canlis, highlights the city’s access to fresh, local catch. For those looking for food trucks, Seattle offers an abundance in vibrant neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill and Ballard, where you can indulge in a variety of cuisines ranging from Asian fusion to Mexican street food. The thriving vegan scene in Seattle is also notable, with many establishments like The Herbivorous Butcher offering creative plant-based alternatives that even meat-lovers might find enticing.
Birmingham vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great food spots that remind you of home. This Birmingham, AL to Seattle, WA restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition by matching your beloved Birmingham eateries with Seattle’s finest. Let these recommendations guide you to your new favorite dining destinations.
Birmingham | Seattle | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Highlands Bar & Grill | Canlis | Upscale dining that captures the essence of fine Southern and Northwestern cuisine |
Saw’s BBQ | Jack's BBQ | Authentic Southern Barbecue offering a taste of the deep South |
Hot and Hot Fish Club | Walrus and the Carpenter | Fresh, local seafood with a creative twist |
Bottega Restaurant | Altura | High-end Italian cuisine with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients |
Post Office Pies | Delancey | Known for their wood-fired pizzas that bring a slice of the South |
El Barrio | Fonda La Catrina | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere |
Ash | Radiator Whiskey | Creative dishes and smoked meats with a unique twist |
Automatic Seafood and Oysters | The Walrus and the Carpenter | Impeccably fresh oysters and innovative seafood dishes |
Paramount | Lost Lake Cafe & Lounge | A diner that serves classic American fare with a side of nostalgia |
Johnny’s Restaurant | The Pink Door | Italian-American dishes with a homely feel that resonates with Johnny’s |
For those who cherish the intimate and upscale dining experience of Birmingham's Highlands Bar & Grill, Seattle's Canlis offers an unmatched atmosphere combining breathtaking views with a menu that excels in both Southern hospitality and Northwestern innovation. Equally, if the laid-back vibe and mouth-watering barbecue of Saw’s BBQ are what you crave, Jack's BBQ in Seattle delivers authentic Southern flavors that are sure to satisfy your appetite. And when in need of a perfect pie reminiscent of Post Office Pies, Delancey’s wood-fired pizzas in Ballard promise a comforting slice of heaven, crafted with care and a touch of Southern charm.
Ready to start your move?
Birmingham vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison focuses on key housing aspects between Birmingham, AL , and Seattle, WA , to help you make an informed decision about your next home.
Comparison | Birmingham | Seattle |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Colonial | Modern, Craftsman |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large lots, Quiet neighborhoods | Views, Proximity to amenities |
When comparing Birmingham to Seattle, it's clear that each city caters to different lifestyle preferences and budgets. Seattle's high median home price and rent reflect its vibrant urban environment, well-supported by amenities, strong walkability, and bikeability scores. These factors contribute to Seattle's higher cost of living but also offer a dynamic lifestyle, with the city's real estate often highlighting spectacular views and proximity to local amenities such as Pike Place Market and public parks. Conversely, Birmingham provides a more affordable housing market, larger lot sizes for homes, and neighborhoods that prioritize tranquility and space. This makes Birmingham an attractive option for those seeking a slower-paced life without sacrificing the charm and character found in its Craftsman and Colonial-style homes.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA
1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.
2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.
3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.
Birmingham vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather differs between your current and future home is essential. This comparison between Birmingham, AL, and Seattle, WA, accentuates the purpose of understanding weather variations, focusing on climate and environmental factors, to help ease your transition.
Birmingham, AL
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Birmingham, AL
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Birmingham, AL
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Birmingham, AL
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Birmingham | Seattle |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Thunderstorms | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When relocating from Birmingham to Seattle, anticipate milder summers and slightly cooler winters in Seattle, along with fewer days of sunshine. Despite a lower annual rainfall in Seattle, its higher winter snowfall and unique risk of earthquakes and volcanoes present new considerations. Additionally, lower UV index levels suggest less intense sunlight, which might be a significant change if you're accustomed to Birmingham's brighter, humid climate. For those with allergies, Seattle's spring-pollen season could offer a reprieve compared to Birmingham's long allergy seasons. Understanding these weather differences can help you prepare for your new environment in Seattle.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Birmingham to Seattle
When moving from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison will illuminate the differences in costs and economic conditions you can expect. From Birmingham to Seattle , grasp how your expenses and income might change.
Comparison | Birmingham | Seattle |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $36,614 | $110,781 |
Cost of Living Index | 90.8 | 121.4 |
State Income Tax | 5 | 0 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.65 | 0.99 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 9 | 10.1 |
Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Banking, Manufacturing | Technology, Aerospace, Healthcare |
Affluence | Moderate | High |
Poverty | Higher than national average | Lower than national average |
Homelessness | Noticeable | Significantly present |
In comparing Birmingham and Seattle, the remarkable difference in the average household income stands out, with Seattle’s nearly double that of Birmingham. However, this increase in income comes with a significantly higher cost of living index in Seattle. The absence of state income tax in Washington might seem beneficial initially, but this advantage might be offset by the higher cost of living and sales tax rates in Seattle. While Birmingham presents a more affordable living situation, Seattle offers greater affluence along with higher economic opportunities, particularly in the technology sector—a crucial point for anyone considering their career growth alongside financial planning.
Birmingham vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
When planning a move from Birmingham, AL to Seattle, WA, understanding the different communities you're transitioning between is essential. This quick comparison of the politics and religious landscapes between Birmingham & Seattle provides a concise snapshot to help you grasp the social fabric of your new city.
Birmingham | Seattle | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean conservative | Strongly liberal |
Local Politics | Local government initiatives often focus on economic development and infrastructure. | Local government initiatives are frequently directed towards environmental sustainability and social equity. |
Religion | Highly religious, predominantly Christian with a strong presence of Briarwood Presbyterian Church and other evangelical churches. | Less religious, with a notable secular population and diverse religious communities including The Seattle Buddhist Center and Bet Alef Meditative Synagogue. |
Moving from Birmingham to Seattle, you’ll transition from a community with a conservative leaning to one distinctly more liberal in its politics and social issues. This shift is seen not just in voting patterns but also in the prevalent local issues and governmental priorities. Birmingham's focus on economic development contrasts with Seattle's emphasis on green initiatives and social justice. Furthermore, the religious landscape between the two cities is strikingly different—Birmingham's strongly Christian-based community against Seattle's more secular and religiously diverse population. This brief overview should aid in setting your expectations and help you adapt to your new home.
Birmingham vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Birmingham, AL to Seattle, WA , it's crucial to understand the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Birmingham & Seattle to anticipate what your daily commute and traffic experiences will be like. This insight will prepare you for the changes and help you adapt more quickly to your new city.
Comparison | Birmingham | Seattle |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 28 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
While Birmingham offers shorter average commute times, Seattle prides itself on its more robust public transit system, ranked 8 out of 10. This difference highlights Seattle's comprehensive public transportation options, including buses, light rail, and ferries, which significantly alleviate its traffic congestion despite its higher score. Consequently, living in Seattle allows you the flexibility to consider a car-free lifestyle, thanks to its accessible and convenient public transit options. This contrast with Birmingham's reliance on cars due to its limited public transit options paints a clear picture of your new daily commuting experience following your move.
Popular Birmingham, AL to Washington Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes