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($1,281) Cost to Move From San Francisco, CA to Birmingham, AL

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 2,325 miles from San Francisco to Birmingham is generally between $1,354 and $7,323. The trip duration should be approximately seven–18 days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from San Francisco to Birmingham

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from San Francisco to Birmingham

When it comes to handling your interstate move from San Francisco to Birmingham, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In San Francisco, you have a choice of 71 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Birmingham smoothly and with confidence.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from San Francisco to Birmingham

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,325-mile move from San Francisco to Birmingham using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,452 – $5,453
  • Moving Container $1,783 – $3,442
  • Rental Truck $1,368 – $2,418
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,547 – $7,323
  • Moving Container $2,109 – $4,740
  • Rental Truck $1,354 – $2,908
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,863 – $11,092
  • Moving Container $3,082 – $6,552
  • Rental Truck $1,692 – $3,566
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Colonial Van Lines
Cherryland, CA Coaling, AL
4 Bedrooms
Oct 21, 2025
Safeway Moving
Brisbane, CA Brighton, AL
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 21, 2025
Mayflower Transit
El Cerrito, CA Pelham, AL
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 07, 2025
Roadway Moving
Alamo, CA Leeds, AL
3 Bedrooms
Sep 28, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Union City, CA Graysville, AL
Studio apartment
Sep 07, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Newark, CA Pinson, AL
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 05, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Daly City, CA Margaret, AL
2 Bedrooms
Aug 26, 2025
BLVD Moving
Walnut Creek, CA Irondale, AL
Studio apartment
Aug 21, 2025
United Van Lines
Belvedere, CA Jemison, AL
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 09, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
South San Francisco, CA Westover, AL
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 08, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Birmingham, AL to San Francisco, CA guide.

Top local movers for San Francisco to Birmingham moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in San Francisco that also provides long-distance services to Birmingham can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 91 local movers in San Francisco who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from San Francisco to Birmingham.

  1. Pure Moving Company: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  2. Gentle Giant Moving Company: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  3. Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Good Green Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
97.6% of all reviews were positive
1.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
A standout among moving companies, Pure Moving Company consistently earns praise for efficiency, professionalism, and attention to detail. Input from 1,008 customers shows 97.6% positive feedback, making it one of the highest-rated moving services in the Bay Area. Clients highlight the team’s quick, organized approach and their careful handling of belongings, often noting that nothing was damaged and furniture was wrapped thoroughly. Customers also appreciate clear communication before and during moves, as well as polite staff and easy booking. Some mention affordable, transparent rates compared to local competitors. Feedback reveals a small number of negative experiences, mainly focused on item damage, slow arrival, or inexperienced staff, although management often responds and resolves complaints promptly. Compared to other moving services, Pure Moving stands out for combining efficient work with care and professional service. Most report smooth, stress-free moves, with only rare setbacks. For those seeking a reliable Bay Area mover, Pure Moving Company sets a benchmark for quality.
Get a Quote (415) 919-6497

Company Info

State license #: 0191103

Years in Business: 11

DOT #: 3207734

Alternate Names: Pure Moving & Storage, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.6% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving has never been this stress-free, according to feedback from 130 customers, and nearly 95% reflect positive experiences with Gentle Giant Moving Company. Clients highlight fast-moving teams, consistently polite and friendly staff, careful treatment of belongings, and swift, organized processes. Many describe their crews as efficient, hardworking, and genuinely committed to making moves smooth. Attention to detail and respectful communication set Gentle Giant apart from most competitors. Some mention higher costs than expected and a handful report frustration with unclear estimates or communication lapses. A few note setbacks like rude customer service or lack of follow-up. Still, the overwhelming majority find Gentle Giant’s efficiency, professionalism, and care exceptional compared to other moving firms.
Get a Quote (415) 544-7000

Company Info

State license #: 0167668

Years in Business: 44

DOT #: 373544

Alternate Names: Great Giant Moving Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crane vans
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
86.9% of all reviews were positive
11.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy is how customers describe Eagle Moving & Storage, Inc., with 86.9% of the 634 feedback entries rating their services positively. Reviewers consistently mention efficient service, careful handling, and professional, polite teams. The booking process is straightforward and communication is strong, making moves feel stress-free compared to larger companies. Many highlight how quickly items are moved and the competitive pricing, with exceptional care towards fragile and valuable belongings. In contrast, 11.7% report issues, mainly with damaged items, late arrivals, or communication lapses during scheduling and claims. While the company receives high praise for their courteous movers and fast work, cases of lost or broken property and delayed deliveries set them apart from top-tier providers who resolve complaints faster and provide more consistent updates. Neutral input often cites both efficient execution and minor damages. Eagle stands out for its efficiency and customer-focused approach but should address recurring concerns with item handling and reliability during high-stress moves.
Get a Quote (415) 404-7400

Company Info

State license #: 0190673

Years in Business: 15

DOT #: 3670248

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
6.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving dreams made easier: NorthStar Moving Company impresses with consistent high marks from more than 1,100 customer reviews, and more than 91% of that input is positive. Feedback repeatedly praises NorthStar’s efficient and friendly movers, careful handling of belongings, and prompt, open communication. Customers highlight quick moving processes, responsible care for fragile items, and smooth, stress-free experiences from booking to delivery. The price is regularly described as reasonable, and transparent quotes are common. When compared to other companies, NorthStar stands out for its professionalism and reliability. Some customers report issues such as damage to furniture, delayed arrival or delivery, or difficulties reaching customer service for status updates or claims. The most common negative feedback involves item damage, poor communication during or after moves, and occasional scheduling errors. While these issues are in the minority, prospective clients may want to clarify all details and ask specific questions about protection policies. NorthStar Moving consistently maintains better customer satisfaction rates than most competitors, making it a leading choice for efficient, careful, and responsive moving services.
Get a Quote (415) 635-3844

Company Info

State license #: 0182466

Years in Business: 30

DOT #: 1836576

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.6% of all reviews were positive
10.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Good Green Moving earns high marks for professionalism and efficiency, with nearly 89% of 341 customer feedback entries praising their staff’s courtesy, clear communication, and careful handling of belongings. Customers frequently mention efficient service, stress-free moves, and quick, reliable crews—traits that set the company apart from many others in the industry. The reusable eco-friendly bins and transparent pricing also are widely appreciated. Negative feedback, making up about 11%, primarily centers on damaged items, poor follow-up from management, and late arrivals or missed time commitments. Some customers report unresolved complaints or lost belongings, especially with storage services. Compared to typical movers, Good Green Moving stands out for its positive staff interactions and above-average customer satisfaction, though a few reports of communication lapses and damaged property remind potential clients to clarify expectations for timing and claims handling.
Get a Quote (855) 613-4663

Company Info

State license #: 0191035

Pricing: $70/hr

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2604063

Alternate Names: Green Move, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required

How much does it cost to move from San Francisco to Birmingham?

Movers in California generally charge an average of $128 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,281 – $5,317 $1,249 – $3,164 $1,329 – $2,494
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,547 – $7,323 $2,109 – $4,740 $1,354 – $2,908
4+ bedrooms $6,863 – $11,092 $3,082 – $6,552 $1,692 – $3,566
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 2,325-mile move from San Francisco to Birmingham, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from San Francisco to Birmingham

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from San Francisco to Birmingham typically costs between $1,281 and $5,317. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,547 and $7,323 when moving from San Francisco to Birmingham. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from San Francisco to Birmingham, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,863 up to $11,092.

Cost of moving containers from San Francisco to Birmingham

If you’re relocating from San Francisco to Birmingham, you’ll typically spend between $1,249 and $3,164 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,109 up to $4,740. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,082 and $6,552. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from San Francisco to Birmingham

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a San Francisco to Birmingham move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,329 and $2,494. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,354 to $2,908. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,692 and $3,566.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from San Francisco to Birmingham

The cost of San Francisco movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from San Francisco to Birmingham might be as low as $2,644, while a four-bedroom could reach $10,885.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in San Francisco.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,329 to $3,288 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from San Francisco to Birmingham

Many movers find Birmingham easier on the wallet than San Francisco – roughly 29% less for singles and 23% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,697 for one person in Birmingham versus $3,781 in San Francisco. For a family of four, it’s $6,727 compared with $8,717.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

San Francisco Birmingham
Average 1 BR rent $3,259 $1,542
Average 3 BR rent $5,475 $2,612
Average home value $1,241,003 $125,988
Average income (per capita) $136,689 $39,403
Cost of living (single) $3,781 $2,697
Cost of living (family of four) $8,717 $6,727
Unemployment rate 5.4% 5.6%
Sales tax 8.63% 10.0%
State income tax 13.3% 5.0%
  • Good news! When moving to Birmingham from San Francisco, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 62% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
  • With home prices being nearly 90% cheaper in Birmingham, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
  • Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 71% lower in Birmingham than in San Francisco.
  • Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Birmingham. The cost of living for a single person is 29% less compared to San Francisco.
  • Relocating to Birmingham could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 23% lower than in San Francisco.
  • There’s little difference in the unemployment rates of Birmingham and San Francisco, within a margin of 5%, so job opportunities should be similar.
  • Sales taxes in Birmingham exceed those in San Francisco by 16%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 62% lower in Alabama than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between San Francisco and Birmingham, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense San Francisco Birmingham
Basic utilities $229.35 $211.40
Cell phone plan $62.91 $49.55
Dozen eggs $5.91 $4.20
Loaf of bread $5.06 $3.52
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $125.00 $60.00
Gym membership $99.96 $47.50
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in San Francisco than in Birmingham.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in San Francisco than in Birmingham.
  • Eggs cost more in San Francisco than in Birmingham.
  • Bread is more expensive in San Francisco than in Birmingham.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in San Francisco than in Birmingham.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in San Francisco than in Birmingham.
  • Gym memberships cost more in San Francisco than in Birmingham.

How life is different in San Francisco vs. Birmingham

San Francisco Birmingham
Population 808,988 196,644
Transportation score 10 0
Walkability score 99 33
Bike friendliness score 99 31
Crime index 61.41 61.64
Safety index 38.59 38.36
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Birmingham’s population is about 76% less than San Francisco.
  • Birmingham has no measurable public transportation (score of 0), while San Francisco scores 10 out of 10, showing a clear advantage for San Francisco.
  • Birmingham is less walkable than San Francisco with a score of 33 out of 100 vs San Francisco’s 99 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 San Francisco, which has a score of 99.
  • Birmingham and San Francisco have a similar crime rate with scores of 61.64 and 61.41, respectively.
  • Birmingham and San Francisco have a similar safety level, with scores of 38.36 and 38.59.
  • Air quality in Birmingham is Good, and in San Francisco it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your San Francisco to Birmingham move

  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Alabama moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Alabama, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Birmingham without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. 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 will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Birmingham

Ready to relocate to B’ham? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider 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

Now that you’ve made the move to Alabama, it’s the perfect time to explore Birmingham. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Birmingham include museums and art centers like the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Vulcan Park and Museum, and McWane Science Center.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Vulcan Park and Museum, Birmingham’s Railroad Park, Kelly Ingram Park, and Red Mountain Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer 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 San Francisco to Birmingham?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from San Francisco to Birmingham. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in San Francisco.

When is the cheapest time to move from San Francisco to Birmingham?

With many people choosing to move from San Francisco to Birmingham in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from San Francisco to Birmingham take?

Covering 2,325 miles, the move from San Francisco, CA to Birmingham, typically takes seven to 18 days. Some San Francisco movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Birmingham can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in San Francisco offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers in San Francisco offer AAA member savings.

Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.

How many movers in San Francisco can handle specialty items for my move to Birmingham?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In San Francisco, 72 movers can handle pianos. 64 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.

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