Washington DC, MD to Birmingham, AL Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Washington DC to Birmingham typically costs $2,500–$6,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 742 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Washington DC to Birmingham
Moving from Washington DC, MD to Birmingham, AL typically costs $2,500–$6,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 742-mile move from Washington DC to Birmingham, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- United Van Lines recently quoted $5,973 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $2,119 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $3,929 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
3 Bedrooms
Feb 13, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 11, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 21, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 08, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 31, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 30, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 29, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 29, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 24, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Nov 30, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Washington DC to Birmingham move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,900 for a one-bedroom, or up to $9,000 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Washington DC.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $600 to $1,600, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Birmingham, AL to Washington DC, MD guide.
Best Washington DC to Birmingham movers by type
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Best professional movers from Washington DC to Birmingham
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Washington DC to Birmingham much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best MD→AL movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 51 Maryland movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Birmingham
Many movers find Birmingham easier on the wallet than Washington DC - roughly 32% less for singles and 39% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,697 for one person in Birmingham versus $3,963 in Washington DC. For a family of four, it's $6,727 compared with $11,093.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Washington DC | Birmingham | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,568 | $1,542 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,417 | $2,612 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $125,988 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $39,403 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,963 | $2,697 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,093 | $6,727 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 5.6% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 10.0% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 5.0% |
- When relocating from Washington DC to Birmingham, expect to find rent about 48% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 79% more affordable in Birmingham compared to Washington DC.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 61% lower in Birmingham compared to Washington DC.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Birmingham, as the cost of living for a single person is 32% lower compared to Washington DC.
- A move to Birmingham can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 39% less than what it costs in Washington DC.
- The unemployment rate in Birmingham is about 20% lower than in Washington DC. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes in Birmingham are 67% more than in Washington DC, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in Alabama are 13% below those in Maryland. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Washington DC and Birmingham:
| Living Expense | Washington DC | Birmingham |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.62 | $211.40 |
| Cell phone plan | $65.80 | $49.55 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.67 | $4.20 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.43 | $3.52 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $60.00 |
| Gym membership | $103.76 | $47.50 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Washington DC than in Birmingham, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Washington DC than in Birmingham.
- Eggs cost more in Washington DC than in Birmingham.
- Bread is more expensive in Washington DC than in Birmingham.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Washington DC than in Birmingham.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Washington DC than in Birmingham.
- Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Birmingham.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Birmingham
| Washington DC | Birmingham | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 672,079 | 196,644 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 0 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 33 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 31 |
| Crime index | 60.37 | 61.64 |
| Safety index | 39.63 | 38.36 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Birmingham's population is about 71% less than Washington DC.
- Birmingham has no measurable public transportation (score of 0), while Washington DC scores 9 out of 10, showing a clear advantage for Washington DC.
- Birmingham is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 33 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 out of 100.
- Birmingham has a bike-friendliness score of 31 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70.
- Birmingham and Washington DC have a similar crime rate with scores of 61.64 and 60.37, respectively.
- Birmingham and Washington DC have a similar safety level, with scores of 38.36 and 39.63.
- Air quality in Birmingham is Good, and in Washington DC it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Birmingham move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: To guarantee the safety and reliability of local moving services in Alabama, it is essential for moving companies to possess a registration number issued by the Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC). Trust your move to registered professionals for a secure and dependable experience. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Alabama’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Alabama does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Birmingham. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Moving companies typically take responsibility for your belongings at a rate of 60 cents per pound (or even less) per item. This means that for a lightweight item weighing five pounds and valued at $500, the reimbursement would be only $3 in the event of loss or damage. To enhance your coverage, certain movers provide additional valuation options, such as declared value or lump sum value protection, which offer better protection compared to the basic released value protection. To better understand and explore these options, consider discussing them with your chosen moving company.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Birmingham
Planning your move to B'ham? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Birmingham.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Central City
- Five Points South
- Highland Park
- Fountain Heights
- Southside
Best neighborhoods for families
- Oxmoor
- Crestwood South
- Redmont Park
Things to do in Birmingham
After settling into your new Alabama home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Birmingham has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Birmingham features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Vulcan Park and Museum, and McWane Science Center.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Vulcan Park and Museum, Birmingham's Railroad Park, Kelly Ingram Park, and Red Mountain Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Birmingham BaronsUAB BlazersSamford University teamsBirmingham Legion FCAlabama Youth Sports Alliance basketball leagueTragic City RollersBirmingham Bulls (SPHL)Birmingham StallionsBirmingham Squadron (NBA G League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Birmingham?
Planning your move from Washington DC to Birmingham? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Washington DC.
When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Birmingham?
Because most people are moving from Washington DC to Birmingham in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Washington DC to Birmingham take?
The 742-mile journey from Washington DC, MD to Birmingham, AL, typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Washington DC offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Birmingham.
Are there special savings available from movers in Washington DC?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 7 have discounts for military personnel. 14 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Washington DC?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Washington DC, 59 movers can manage piano relocations. 44 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Maryland has 37 piano movers and 30 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
