Best Durham to Birmingham Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Embarking on a move from the Bull City to The Magic City is not just a change of scenery, but a vibrant adventure brimming with new possibilities. Swapping Durham's renowned academia and tech hub vibe for Birmingham's rich history, soulful food, and burgeoning art scene can feel like stepping into an entirely different world. Recognizing the significance of this long-distance transition, we emphasize the importance of partnering with trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your journey is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Best Durham to Birmingham Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Birmingham to Durham guide.
5 Best Durham to Birmingham Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving ExpertsAbout 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
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 Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years...Read More >>
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
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.
Durham vs. Birmingham Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. This guide aims to help you find your feet by comparing local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Birmingham, AL. By examining the similarities between popular neighborhoods in Durham with those in Birmingham, you’ll be able to picture yourself in your new home with ease.
| Durham | Birmingham | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Trinity Park | Highland Park | Historic homes, community-centric |
| Old West Durham | Forest Park | Artsy, vibrant community life |
| Hope Valley | Mountain Brook | Upscale, family-friendly |
| Warehouse District | Lakeview District | Nightlife, trendy eateries |
| Brightleaf Square | Avondale | Breweries, modern dining scenes |
| Woodcroft | Vestavia Hills | Suburban, great schools |
| American Tobacco District | Railroad Park Area | Urban renewal, entertainment |
| Duke Park | Redmont Park | Green spaces, neighborhood charm |
| Southpoint | Homewood | Shopping, accessible public spaces |
| Ninth Street | Five Points South | Eclectic, historic area |
If you're fond of the buzzing atmosphere and eclectic shops of Ninth Street, you'll likely appreciate the historic vibe and vibrant night scene in Five Points South. This Birmingham neighborhood offers a similar mix of local eateries, bars, and shops, making it a great place for those who enjoy a lively urban environment. On the flip side, those moving from the tranquil, green spaces of Duke Park might find Redmont Park to be a seamless transition with its lush landscapes and welcoming community. Here, you can explore parks like Caldwell Park that offer a peaceful refuge within the city. Whether you're drawn to the modern dining and breweries of Brightleaf Square or the historic homes and community feel of Trinity Park, Birmingham has neighborhoods that echo the charm and character of your Durham favorites, making it easier to feel right at home.
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 Durham to Birmingham
Moving can be a stressful yet exciting time, offering both challenges and rewards. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes when relocating from Durham, NC to Birmingham, AL. With detailed comparisons, you’ll find insights into how swapping these city settings might affect your lifestyle.
Durham, NC- Higher cost of living
- Colder winters
- Lesser dining variety
- Smaller city feel
Birmingham, AL- Lower cost of living
- Milder winters
- Greater dining diversity
- Larger metropolitan area
Birmingham, AL- Urban industrial scenery
- Fewer academic institutions
- Emerging tech scene
- Higher crime rates
Durham, NC- Lush green landscapes
- Rich academic environment
- Vibrant tech scene
- Lower crime rates
Moving from Durham to Birmingham, you'll swap the lush, verdant landscapes and academic buzz of the Research Triangle for Birmingham's historically rich, industrial charm. While Durham is known for institutions like Duke University, birthing a vibrant tech scene, you'll find Birmingham's UAB an emerging tech hub. Birmingham doesn't shy away from variety in dining, either; from the soulful Southern cuisine at Saw's Soul Kitchen to the exotic flavors at Babalu, there's plenty to explore. While you might miss Durham's lower crime rates and the academic environment, Birmingham's metropolitan experience and milder winters present a new world of exploration.
Durham vs. Birmingham Food Guide
Food is an essential part of the local culture and living experience. As you plan your move, understanding the local cuisine is key to feeling at home. We've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham, NC & Birmingham, AL, so you can be well-informed about the culinary scene awaiting you.
| Durham | Birmingham | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Barbecue pork | Fried green tomatoes |
| Most popular meat dish | Brisket | Baby back ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Taco trucks | Hot chicken sandwiches |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ jackfruit | Collard greens |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Birmingham, the iconic fried green tomatoes can often be found at neighborhood gems like the SAW's BBQ, which reflects the city's love for traditional Southern cuisine with a modern twist. Unlike Durham's barbecue pork, Birmingham takes pride in its baby back ribs, showcasing a deep-rooted barbecue culture. The food scene is also becoming increasingly accommodating to vegans, with dishes like collard greens being offered in more creative and vegan-friendly ways. This nod towards health and dietary inclusivity shows Birmingham's evolving food scene, appealing to a broader audience while staying true to its Southern roots.
Durham vs. Birmingham Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite eatery can transform a city into a home, especially when moving to a new area. This comparison chart aims to connect Durham, NC, and Birmingham, AL residents with their new favorite spots , using familiar favorites as a guide. Whether you’re seeking high-end dining, casual eats, or iconic dishes, let this be your culinary compass in your new city.
| Durham | Birmingham | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Mateo Bar de Tapas | El Barrio | Varied Latin American cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere |
| Pizzeria Toro | Post Office Pies | Artisanal wood-fired pizzas in a laid-back setting |
| NanaSteak | Perry's Steakhouse & Grille | Famous for steak and an upscale dining experience |
| Dame's Chicken & Waffles | Eugene's Hot Chicken | Known for Southern flavors and crispy chicken |
| Bull City Burger and Brewery | Good People Brewing | Great burgers with a selection of craft beers |
| Scratch Bakery | Edgar's Bakery | A wide variety of baked goods and a cozy cafe vibe |
| M Sushi | Shiki | Authentic Japanese cuisine with a focus on fresh sushi |
| Parts & Labor | Hot Box | A gastro pub offering innovative and eclectic dishes |
| Elmo's Diner | Trattoria Zaza | Comforting Italian food in a casual diner setting |
| Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten | Avondale Common House & Distillery | European-inspired dishes with a local twist |
When exploring the culinary landscape of Birmingham, AL, newcomers from Durham will find comforting parallels and thrilling new experiences. For instance, aficionados of Mateo Bar de Tapas will delight in El Barrio's eclectic Latin American menu and vibrant energy, promising a similar blend of innovation and tradition. Meanwhile, pizza enthusiasts who frequented Pizzeria Toro can savor the artisanal, wood-fired creations at Post Office Pies, where the emphasis on quality ingredients and laid-back ambiance echoes their Durham favorite. And for those who loved the distinct combination of flavors at Dame's Chicken & Waffles, Eugene's Hot Chicken offers a Southern culinary adventure with its crispy, perfectly seasoned chicken that pays homage to the beloved Durham dish. These establishments not only carry on the culinary traditions you've come to love in Durham but also invite you to dive deep into Birmingham's own rich flavors and unique dining experiences.
Ready to start your move?
Durham vs. Birmingham Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how Durham and Birmingham compare in terms of housing can make a huge difference in finding your next home. This comparison covers everything from costs to lifestyle .
| Comparison | Durham | Birmingham |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Tudor, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Granite countertops, hardwood floors | Large backyards, historic details |
Durham's real estate market leans slightly higher in cost, both in purchasing and renting properties, compared to Birmingham. However, Durham offers a more vibrant urban lifestyle, reflected in its higher score. The dominant architectural styles in both cities reveal a charm unique to each: Durham with its Colonial and Craftsman homes, and Birmingham boasting Tudor styles alongside Craftsman designs. Despite both cities having low walkability and bikeability scores, the cultural and historic aspects of their neighborhoods are often highlights in real estate listings, with Durham homes trending towards modern amenities like granite countertops and Birmingham houses prizing large backyards and preserved historic details.
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.
Durham vs. Birmingham Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Durham, NC, to Birmingham, AL, understanding the weather differences between these two cities is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how climate and environmental conditions vary, helping you adjust more comfortably to your new setting.
Durham, NC
Birmingham, AL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Birmingham, AL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Birmingham, AL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Durham, NC
Birmingham, AL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Durham | Birmingham |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Tornadoes, Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Durham and Birmingham enjoy a similar range of temperatures in summer and winter, there are notable differences in environmental conditions that could impact your daily life. Birmingham experiences slightly higher average humidity and more annual rainfall than Durham, potentially affecting outdoor activities and overall comfort. Additionally, while both cities face their share of natural disasters, Birmingham's greater tendency towards tornadoes and thunderstorms may require new residents to become more familiar with local emergency protocols. Understanding these climate nuances will help you better prepare for your move and adapt to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Birmingham
When planning a move, understanding the financial landscape of your new city is crucial. This comparison will illuminate how Durham, NC and Birmingham, AL stack up against each other in critical financial aspects. Knowing this will help you budget effectively and set realistic expectations for your move.
| Comparison | Durham | Birmingham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $71,343 | $36,614 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 90.8 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 5.0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.84 | 0.68 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 10.0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Technology | Healthcare, Banking, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Moderate |
While the average household income in Durham is significantly higher than in Birmingham, the cost of living index shows that your dollars can stretch further in Birmingham, with a cost of living index of 72 compared to Durham's 96. However, Birmingham's higher sales tax rate of 10% compared to Durham's 7.5% could offset some of these savings. The differing states of affluence and poverty between the two cities are notable, with Durham boasting a more moderate affluence and lower poverty rates. Moreover, the primary industries in each city – education, health services, and technology in Durham; healthcare, banking, and manufacturing in Birmingham – could influence job opportunities and economic stability for new residents.
Durham vs. Birmingham Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Durham, NC, to Birmingham, AL, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local culture and community. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Durham & Birmingham, giving you insight into the fundamental beliefs and values that shape these two cities.
| Durham | Birmingham | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies and initiatives | Civic engagement and progressive movements |
| Religion | Diverse, with a strong Christian presence | Primarily Christian, with significant religious communities |
Both Durham and Birmingham are known for their liberal and Democratic political leanings, highlighting a similarity in civic mindset despite the geographical move. Durham is particularly noted for its progressive policies and initiatives, pointing to a community that values social justice and reform. In contrast, Birmingham also presents a tapestry of civic engagement and progressive movements, with its residents actively participating in shaping the social landscape. The religious fabric of both cities is predominantly Christian, yet they embrace diversity in faith and practice, which is crucial for newcomers seeking community connections. Understanding these dynamics can ease the transition, making you feel more at home in your new city.
Durham vs. Birmingham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Durham, NC, to Birmingham, AL, brings a shift in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Birmingham aims to prepare you for what to expect on the roads and with public transportation in your new city.
| Comparison | Durham | Birmingham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | With difficulty | No |
In Durham, while the average commute time is slightly shorter, the traffic congestion is rated higher compared to Birmingham. This indicates you might spend less time in the car, but possibly face denser traffic in Durham. Public transit in Durham scores moderately, suggesting a semi-reliable network likely centered around the GoDurham bus service, making getting around without a car challenging but feasible. In contrast, Birmingham's lower public transit score and the strong suggestion that a car is necessary to navigate the city reflect a more car-dependent lifestyle. Understanding these differences can help you adjust your expectations and plan accordingly for your new daily commute in Birmingham.
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