How we chose the best moving companies for your AL to NC move
After studying pricing from 47 Alabama movers, the moveBuddha team identified the highest-rated options by weighing customer feedback, reviews, and affordability.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Consistent punctuality, clear updates, and costs that align with the estimate.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Admits faults and prioritizes fair, practical fixes for customers.
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Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
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Online reputation (15%): Keeps an accurate site and responds promptly and professionally to inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Covers everything from full packing to storage, special handling, and rush delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Alabama to North Carolina?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Alabama to North Carolina.
You’ll find prices organized by home size and type of moving service, making it easy to compare your options.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,220 – $3,486 |
$699 – $1,621 |
$439 – $778 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,102 – $5,626 |
$1,176 – $2,449 |
$446 – $992 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,869 – $8,223 |
$1,569 – $2,980 |
$597 – $1,127 |
*Estimated costs for a 585-mile move from AL to
NC are shown here, calculated from moveBuddha’s
dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide
and update them monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market dynamics. Actual charges can vary
with shipment size, extra services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and scheduling.
For the most accurate pricing, compare quotes from several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Alabama to North Carolina
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Alabama to North Carolina will cost between
$1,220 and
$3,486.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from AL to NC will
range from $2,102 to
$5,626, and a large move from Alabama
to North Carolina will cost from $3,869
to $8,223.
Cost of moving containers from Alabama to North Carolina
If you’re moving from Alabama to North Carolina,
expect to pay between $699
and $1,621 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,176 up to
$2,449.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,569 and
$2,980. Check out our guide on
PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
for your move from Alabama.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Alabama to North Carolina
Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading,
unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between
$439 and
$778.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $446
and $992. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $597 up to
$1,127 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AL to NC
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Alabama to North Carolina. Here’s what might influence your total price:
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Everything you’re taking with you: More stuff to transport means a bigger bill compared to a lighter load.
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Time of year: The peak moving season in Alabama is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
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DIY or full-service help: Handling the move yourself costs less, but hiring pros saves you the heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from AL to NC
A relocation from Alabama to North Carolina comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Alabama vs. North Carolina
Comparing expenses in Alabama and North Carolina shows how much everyday living can vary. This side-by-side view of income, unemployment, taxes, and housing sheds light on where your money may go further:
|
Alabama |
North Carolina |
| Average rent |
$925 |
$1,093 |
| Average home cost |
$227,508 |
$328,715 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$59,609 |
$66,186 |
| Cost of living index |
88 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
3.7% |
| Average sales tax |
9.22% |
6.98% |
| State income tax |
5.0% |
4.5% |
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Rent in North Carolina is approximately 18% higher than in Alabama, so make sure to account for this in your monthly budget.
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Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 44% higher in North Carolina than in Alabama.
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Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 11% higher in North Carolina compared to Alabama. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
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Moving to North Carolina means you’ll be paying 9% more than you did in Alabama. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
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Unemployment in North Carolina is about 28% higher than in Alabama. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
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Sales tax in North Carolina is 24% lower than in Alabama. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in North Carolina can really help lower your monthly costs.
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Income taxes are 10% lower in North Carolina than in Alabama. Lower income tax rates mean less money withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
How life is different in North Carolina vs. Alabama
Relocating to a new state is about more than finding a job or a place to live.
It’s about how your day-to-day life will feel. Things like weather, safety, local culture,
and the size of your community will all play a part in your overall experience. Here’s a side-by-side look
at how life in North Carolina stacks up against Alabama across important lifestyle factors:
|
North Carolina |
Alabama |
| Population |
10,835,491 |
5,108,468 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Republican 65-35 |
| Summer high |
88ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
29ºF |
33ºF |
| Annual rain |
48″ |
56″ |
| Annual snow |
4″ |
1″ |
| Crime index |
24.69 |
21.48 |
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North Carolina is about 112% more populous than Alabama.
With a larger population, you can usually expect upgraded infrastructure — better hospitals, schools, public transit, and more entertainment options.
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During the last presidential election, both Alabama and North Carolina supported the Republican candidate.
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In North Carolina, summer highs hover around 88°F, while Alabama sits at 91°F.
Since they’re nearly the same, you shouldn’t notice a big difference, though seasonal patterns could still vary.
-
During the coldest part of the year, North Carolina reaches about 29°F and Alabama gets down to 33°F.
When winter lows are similar, you’ll enjoy a seamless seasonal transition, with familiar heating costs and conditions.
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You’ll enjoy about 48 inches of rain each year in North Carolina, compared to 56 inches in Alabama.
With less rain, you can look forward to more sunshine, plenty of time outdoors, and fewer weather-related interruptions, making this a refreshing climate.
-
In North Carolina, you’ll get about 4 inches of snow each year.
Meanwhile, Alabama averages around 1 inch annually.
With similar snowfall in both places, your move should be pretty straightforward.
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North Carolina has a higher crime rate than Alabama with a crime index of 24.69 vs. 21.48.
A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.
Comparing the pros of Alabama vs. North Carolina
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in North Carolina versus Alabama:
| Pros of living in Alabama |
Pros of living in North Carolina |
| Low cost of living |
Great communities |
| Tasty southern comfort food |
Low cost of living |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Top-notch college football |
High quality of life |
| Rich history |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Comparing the cons of living in Alabama vs. North Carolina
Moving from Alabama to North Carolina comes with its own set of challenges.
Keep these things in mind to make your move smoother:
| Cons of living in Alabama |
Cons of living in North Carolina |
| Poor quality of life |
Hurricanes |
| Severe weather |
Bland weather |
| Restrictive alcohol laws |
High crime rate |
| Poor healthcare |
High tax burden |
| Cockroaches |
Poor education |
Other things to consider for your Alabama to North Carolina move
-
HOA rules:
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
-
Elevator reservation:
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
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State licensing:
For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division.
All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a North Carolina moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
You won’t need a moving permit in North Carolina, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
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Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. That way, once you’ve locked in your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to North Carolina without a hitch. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in North Carolina
Get ready to discover all that North Carolina has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in North Carolina
- Biltmore
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
- International Civil Rights Center & Museum
- Greensboro Science Center
- Museum of the Cherokee Indian
Parks in North Carolina
- Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
- Mingo Falls
- The North Carolina Arboretum
- Sarah P. Duke Gardens
- Fontana Lake
Sports teams in North Carolina
- Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
- Carolina Panthers (NFL)
- Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)
- North Carolina Courage (NWSL)
- Charlotte FC (MLS)
Universities in North Carolina
- North Carolina State University
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- East Carolina University
- Appalachian State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Alabama to North Carolina?
Do movers transport your car from Alabama to North Carolina?
What are the benefits of moving from Alabama to North Carolina?
The main reasons people are moving from Alabama to North Carolina are the amazing upsides of living in North Carolina, such as great communities and low cost of living.
Is it cheaper to live in Alabama or North Carolina?
Living in Alabama usually costs less than in North Carolina.
Housing
is much more affordable in Alabama,
with average rent about 15% less and home prices 31% lower than in North Carolina.
However, taxes are
lower in North Carolina, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Alabama residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in North Carolina?
You should make approximately $43,333 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in North Carolina.
The cost of living in North Carolina is about $3,876 per month for an individual and $6,644 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Charlotte and Raleigh tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Alabama?
Some movers in Alabama provide budget-friendly deals.
Special pricing for military members is available from 2 moving companies.
Discounts for seniors are offered by 1 movers.
Student savings are available through 5 moving providers.
Teacher and educator discounts can be found with 1 movers.
Law enforcement personnel receive special rate options from 1 companies.
Discount details vary, so confirm terms with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When moving from Alabama to North Carolina, expect to spend between
$2,102–$5,626 if using professional movers, about
$1,812 for a moving container, and around
$719
for a rental truck.
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