Best Chicago to Birmingham Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Chicago to Birmingham Movers

Moving from the bustling streets of Chicago, IL to the charming vibes of Birmingham, AL, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. Trading the Windy City’s iconic skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza for the Magic City’s rich history and southern hospitality can feel like stepping into a whole new world. To ensure this long-distance move is as smooth as possible, it's vital to trust professional movers with a proven track record, like we do at Great Guys Moving, where our unbiased algorithm is designed to connect you with the best in the business.

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Best Chicago to Birmingham Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
MoveDaddy9.38A+Authorized For HHGContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
A1 Movers, Inc9.33NRAuthorized For HHGContact
New Latitude Movers9.26A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Birmingham to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to Birmingham Moving Companies

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

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
1
606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

About 606 Movers, Inc.

606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly movi...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Movers
  • Commercial Movers
  • Packing & Unpacking Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional9.35/10
based on 10,649+ data points

About Move-tastic!

What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving c...Read More >>

Services

  • Full Moves
  • Truck Loading and Unloading
  • Interstate Moving Assistance

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers28
Total Annual Miles Moved90,866 (2023)
View Full Review
3
A1 Movers, Inc Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
based on 776+ data points

About A1 Movers, Inc

A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company offers ...Read More >>

Services

  • LOCAL MOVES
  • LONG DISTANCE MOVES
  • PACKING SERVICES

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3309154 / 1055273

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,800 (2024)
View Full Review
4
New Latitude Movers Logo
Exceptional9.26/10
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 12/17/2024)

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
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.

Chicago vs. Birmingham Neighborhood Comparison

When planning a move, understanding your new landscape is crucial. Our guide aims to ease this transition by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Birmingham, AL . By identifying comparable neighborhoods, we hope to help you find a new area that feels like home, using your current city as a familiar baseline.

ChicagoBirminghamHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkForest ParkVibrant community, green spaces
Wicker ParkAvondaleArtsy, with trendy spots
LoopDowntownHeart of the city, business hub
Gold CoastMountain BrookUpscale, historic
LakeviewHomewoodFamily-friendly, bustling local businesses
AndersonvilleCrestwoodQuaint, with a strong community feel
River NorthFive Points SouthEntertainment, dining
Old TownHighland ParkResidential, historic charm
PilsenEast LakeCultural, emerging arts scene
Hyde ParkSouthsideDiverse, near universities

If you're drawn to the artsy, vibrant atmosphere of Wicker Park, with its myriad of galleries, boutiques, and trendy diners like Big Star, you'll find a similar vibe in Avondale, Birmingham. Avondale boasts an eclectic dining scene, featured at places like Saw's Soul Kitchen, and supports a burgeoning arts community, centered around venues like the Avondale Brewing Company. For those who appreciate the upscale, historic homes and the luxurious shopping district of Chicago's Gold Coast, Mountain Brook offers a comparable experience in Birmingham, with exclusive shops and eateries lining the charming streets. Comparatively, Homewood echoes Lakeview's family-friendly atmosphere, emphasizing community engagement and local businesses, ensuring a smooth transition for those seeking a similar neighborhood ethos in their new city.

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Things to Do in Birmingham

  • Explore Birmingham Zoo.
  • Visit Birmingham Museum of Art.
  • Walk around Railroad Park.
  • Enjoy McWane Science Center.
  • Discover Vulcan Park and Museum.
  • Attend a game at UAB Sports.
  • Tour Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Birmingham

Moving from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL presents a unique opportunity to weigh the possible drawbacks against the expected benefits of such relocation. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of transitioning between these cities, helping you make a well-informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher cost of living
  • Colder winters
  • Dense traffic
  • Higher crime rates
Birmingham, AL iconBirmingham, AL
  • Lower cost of living
  • Milder winters
  • Less congestion
  • Lower crime rates
Birmingham, AL iconBirmingham, AL
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less cultural variety
  • Fewer global cuisines
  • Limited public transport
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant city life
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Diverse food options
  • Extensive public transit

When moving from Chicago to Birmingham, you're exchanging the vibrant, bustling city life replete with diverse food options and a rich cultural scene for a more laid-back atmosphere with less congestion and lower living costs. Chicago's renowned deep-dish pizza places like Pequod's Pizza contrast with Birmingham's celebrated Southern BBQ spots such as Saw's BBQ. Meanwhile, the milder winters mean you can enjoy Birmingham's beautiful outdoor spaces, like Railroad Park, year-round. Additionally, the move could mean transitioning from Chicago's extensive public transit system to more reliance on personal transportation in Birmingham, reflecting the distinct pace of life and spatial configurations of the two cities.

Chicago vs. Birmingham Food Guide

Food is an indelible part of local culture and a telling representation of what it's like to live somewhere. To help you understand the culinary contrasts of your relocation, we'll embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Birmingham, giving you a taste of what awaits in your new hometown.

ChicagoBirmingham
Most iconic local food itemDeep-Dish PizzaBarbecue Ribs
Most popular meat dishItalian BeefFried Catfish
Most popular street food itemHot Dog (Chicago style)Gourmet Popsicles
Most popular vegan foodSeitan-based dishesJackfruit BBQ Sandwich
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
  • Saw's BBQ
  • Highlands Bar and Grill
  • Post Office Pies
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Chicago to Birmingham, you'll notice the shift from the hearty, deeply satisfying flavors of deep-dish pizza and Italian beef, emblematic of Chicago, to the smoky sweetness of barbecue ribs and the Southern charm of fried catfish in Birmingham. Neighborhoods like The Loop in Chicago are famed for their vibrant food scenes, featuring establishments like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria for your deep-dish cravings. Meanwhile, in Birmingham, areas like Avondale are culinary hotspots where you can indulge in Saw's BBQ's mouth-watering ribs or savor the artisanal delight of a gourmet popsicle from local favorite, Steel City Pops. This region-specific shift in culinary delights is an exciting aspect of your move, offering new flavors and dining experiences to explore.

Chicago vs. Birmingham Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This comparison of top restaurants in Chicago compared to Birmingham, AL , is designed to help you quickly find new favorite spots that echo the culinary experiences you've loved. Whether you crave high-end dining, casual eats, or unique foodie destinations, this guide bridges the gap between familiar and new.

ChicagoBirminghamWhat You'll Love
AlineaHighlands Bar and GrillBoth offer an upscale dining experience with meticulously crafted meals.
Portillo’sSaw’s Soul KitchenIconic for their casual yet unforgettable local flavors.
Girl & The GoatAutomatic Seafood and OystersKnown for innovative dishes in a lively, chic setting.
Giordano’sPost Office PiesBoth places are loved for their deep-dish pizzas and homey vibe.
The Purple PigHot and Hot Fish ClubA foodie's delight for exceptional plates with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabGeorge’s SteakhousePrime cuts and seafood with a focus on quality and service.
Smoque BBQRodney Scott’s BBQCelebrated for authentic, mouth-watering barbecue flavors.
The Berghoff RestaurantBrät BrotBoth offer a taste of German fare in a unique and inviting atmosphere.
RoisterOvenBirdSmall plates and live-fire cooking create a memorable dining experience.
Rick Bayless’ Frontera GrillEl BarrioModern Mexican cuisine that celebrates traditional flavors with a contemporary twist.

While Chicago and Birmingham offer distinct culinary landscapes, there's comfort in finding places that resonate with what you've grown to love. For instance, the transition from the innovative American cuisine at Girl & The Goat to the fresh takes on seafood at Automatic Seafood and Oysters will feel both seamless and exciting. Similarly, barbecue enthusiasts will rejoice in discovering Rodney Scott’s BBQ in Birmingham, mirroring the deep-rooted American barbecue culture found at Smoque BBQ in Chicago. These comparisons not only highlight the vibrant dining scenes in both cities but also showcase the varied flavors and dining experiences waiting to be explored in your new home city.

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Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. Birmingham Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial component when considering a move. Understanding how housing aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities compare between Chicago, IL and Birmingham, AL is vital. This comparison aims to illuminate these key differences to assist in your decision-making process.

ComparisonChicagoBirmingham
Typical Architecture StyleModern & Brick BuildingsColonial Revival & Bungalows
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to public transport & Lake MichiganQuiet neighborhoods & Spacious yards

When comparing Chicago to Birmingham, the stark difference in median home prices is immediately evident, reflecting the broader cost of living and real estate market dynamics. Chicago's higher walkability and bikeability ratings underscore its urban environment, supported by an extensive public transport system and amenities conducive to a more active lifestyle. On the other hand, Birmingham offers a quieter, more spaced-out living experience, with its real estate listings frequently highlighting large yards and peaceful neighborhoods. This juxtaposition illustrates the importance of considering your lifestyle preferences and budget when making a move.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Birmingham, AL

1. Highland Park: Known for its expansive parks like Rhodes Park, it's a paradise where your pets can enjoy long walks and meet other animals in a friendly neighborhood.

2. Avondale: With its pet-friendly patios at local establishments like Avondale Brewing Company, you and your furry friend can enjoy a day out in the community together.

3. Homewood: Home to the Homewood Central Park, offering spacious areas for pets to play and paths for walking, making it ideal for pet owners looking for an active community.

Chicago vs. Birmingham Weather Considerations

When moving from one city to another, understanding the weather differences between Chicago, IL and Birmingham, AL is crucial. This awareness helps you prepare for changes in temperature, humidity, and more, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Summer icon
85/65

Chicago, IL

90/71

Birmingham, AL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
36/22

Chicago, IL

57/39

Birmingham, AL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

53

Birmingham, AL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
37

Chicago, IL

2

Birmingham, AL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonChicagoBirmingham
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersBlizzards, Cold WavesTornadoes, Thunderstorms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Chicago to Birmingham, you'll notice a significant change in the seasonal temperatures. Birmingham offers warmer winters and more days of sunshine, making outdoor activities enjoyable year-round. However, prepare for a slight increase in humidity and the potential for more frequent thunderstorms and tornadoes. The difference in natural disaster risks - with Birmingham prone to tornadoes versus Chicago's blizzards - necessitates familiarizing yourself with new safety precautions and emergency plans. On a brighter note, Birmingham's gentler winters mean you can say goodbye to heavy snow shoveling.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Birmingham

When considering a move from one area to another, it's vital to dive into the financial imprints of each location. A comparative analysis between Chicago, IL and Birmingham, AL regarding money and finance will not only acquaint you with the economic environment but also with what your wallet can expect.

ComparisonChicagoBirmingham
Avg. Household Income$66,576$36,614
Cost of Living Index116.990.8
State Income Tax4.952-5
Avg. Property Tax2.160.42
Avg. Sales Tax10.2510
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Insurance, ManufacturingHealthcare, Banking, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerateModerately low
PovertyNoticeableHigh
HomelessnessEvidentConsiderable

Understanding the financial landscape between Chicago and Birmingham is imperative if you're looking to make the move. Chicago, with its higher household income and cost of living, reflects its larger economic scale and more diverse job market. Despite a higher state income tax, the affluence level in Chicago is moderately rated, with a noticeable poverty and evident homelessness issue, mirroring many major metropolitan areas. In contrast, Birmingham presents a lower cost of living, making it a potentially more affordable city. However, it's important to consider the lower average household income and higher poverty rate when moving. This overview gives you a starting point, but remember, your lifestyle and job sector will greatly impact your experience in either city.

Chicago vs. Birmingham Political & Religious Comparison

This brief comparison aims to provide a quick glimpse into the political and religious makeup of residents between Chicago, IL & Birmingham, AL . Understanding these aspects can help you better appreciate the community you’re moving into and how it compares to the place you're leaving.

ChicagoBirmingham
Political Make-upStrongly DemocraticModerately Democratic
Local PoliticsLiberal, with emphasis on social issuesCentrist, with a balance between conservative and liberal views
ReligionDiverse; significant Catholic & Protestant communitiesPrimarily Protestant, with a notable Baptist presence

While both Chicago and Birmingham lean towards Democratic ideals, the intensity and focus of political beliefs differ. Chicago's political scene is known for its liberal stance, particularly on social issues. Birmingham, while still moderately Democratic, tends to have a more centrist view, balancing between conservative and liberal perspectives. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, though differently. Chicago boasts a diverse religious landscape, but in Birmingham, the Protestant faith, especially the Baptist denomination, has a strong influence on the community. This insight into politics and religion can be crucial in understanding the social fabric of your new home.

Chicago vs. Birmingham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when moving to a new city. This comparison between Chicago & Birmingham provides a glimpse into what you can expect from each city's transportation dynamics.

ComparisonChicagoBirmingham
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3424
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?Yes, with certain limitationsIt's challenging

In Chicago, the availability and efficiency of public transit are significantly higher, allowing many residents to navigate the city without the need for a personal vehicle. Well-connected networks like the Chicago Transit Authority provide extensive coverage across the city and its suburbs. On the other hand, Birmingham's public transportation options are more limited, which places a greater emphasis on having a car to comfortably access various parts of the city. The difference in average commute times reflects both the size and density of Chicago compared to Birmingham, as well as the more prevalent use of public transportation in the former.

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