How we chose the best moving companies for your AL to ND move
moveBuddha experts compared rates across 47 Alabama moving services, showcasing the companies that stood out for strong reviews, reliable service, and fair pricing.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): On-schedule service, proactive communication, and no surprises on price.
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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.
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Industry reputation (15%): Respected by peers and active in associations and trade events.
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Online reputation (15%): Maintains a trustworthy web presence and answers customers with speed and courtesy.
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Service options (10%): Comprehensive offerings including packing, secure storage, delicate-item care, and faster shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Alabama to North Dakota?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Alabama to North Dakota.
We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,235 – $4,995 |
$970 – $2,514 |
$899 – $1,763 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$3,046 – $6,907 |
$1,803 – $3,746 |
$1,065 – $2,226 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$5,321 – $9,494 |
$2,507 – $4,822 |
$1,239 – $2,486 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,637-mile move from AL to
ND using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025.
moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and
updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends.
Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges,
fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers
to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Alabama to North Dakota
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Alabama to North Dakota typically costs between
$1,235 and
$4,995.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$3,046
and $6,907
when moving from AL to ND.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Alabama to North Dakota,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $5,321
up to $9,494.
Cost of moving containers from Alabama to North Dakota
If you’re relocating from Alabama to North Dakota,
you’ll typically spend between $970
and $2,514 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,803 up to
$3,746.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$2,507 and
$4,822. For a full breakdown,
check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies
for your move from Alabama.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Alabama to North Dakota
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice, 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
$899 and
$1,763.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$1,065 to
$2,226.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $1,239 and
$2,486.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AL to ND
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Alabama to North Dakota. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
-
Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
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Seasonal timing: Summer is peak moving season in Alabama, which usually means higher prices.
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Pros vs. DIY: Doing it yourself can save money, but hiring movers saves effort and stress.
What to know before moving from AL to ND
Transitioning from Alabama to North Dakota gives you a chance to look at how life in your new state will differ from what you know now.
Cost of living: Alabama vs. North Dakota
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Alabama and North Dakota are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Alabama |
North Dakota |
| Average rent |
$925 |
$912 |
| Average home cost |
$227,508 |
$263,410 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$59,609 |
$73,959 |
| Cost of living index |
88 |
96 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
2.4% |
| Average sales tax |
9.22% |
6.96% |
| State income tax |
5.0% |
2.9% |
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Your budget won’t be hit too hard when you move to North Dakota from Alabama with rent being about the same in each state.
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Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment — home prices in North Dakota are roughly 16% higher than in Alabama.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 24% more in North Dakota than in Alabama. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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Moving to North Dakota means you’ll be spending 9% more than you did in Alabama. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
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With an unemployment rate roughly 17% lower than Alabama, North Dakota offers a thriving job market and a lively economy.
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Sales tax in North Dakota is 25% lower than in Alabama, which can stretch your budget further on recurring expenses like food, shopping, and entertainment.
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Income taxes are 42% lower in North Dakota compared to Alabama. With these lower rates, you’ll keep more of each paycheck, leaving you extra cash to save, invest, or spend on daily needs.
How life is different in North Dakota vs. Alabama
A move to another state brings shifts that go beyond housing and work. Things like weather, community safety, political leanings, and population size all help define what daily life looks like. This snapshot shows how North Dakota and Alabama compare.
|
North Dakota |
Alabama |
| Population |
783,926 |
5,108,468 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 68-32 |
Republican 65-35 |
| Summer high |
82ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
0ºF |
33ºF |
| Annual rain |
19″ |
56″ |
| Annual snow |
39″ |
1″ |
| Crime index |
22.74 |
21.48 |
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With a population roughly 85% smaller than Alabama, North Dakota gives you more space, a more relaxed vibe, and lower living expenses.
Just remember, you might notice fewer amenities around and a job market that’s not quite as fast-paced.
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The last presidential election saw both Alabama and North Dakota siding with the Republican party.
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The average summer high in North Dakota is 82°F compared to 91°F in Alabama.
A cooler summer climate means less extreme heat, lower energy costs, and more comfortable outdoor time — great for anyone who values comfort.
-
In the coldest months, North Dakota dips to about 0°F, colder than 33°F in Alabama.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
-
In North Dakota, you’ll get about 19 inches of rain each year, less than the 56 inches you’re used to in Alabama.
That means more sun, more time outside, and fewer weather hassles to hold you back.
-
Each year, North Dakota gets about 39 inches of snow, far more than the 1 inch you might be accustomed to in Alabama.
That means breathtaking winter landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, but it also calls for a little extra preparation and regular upkeep.
-
North Dakota has a higher crime rate than Alabama, with a crime index of 22.74 compared to 21.48.
While a higher statewide crime rate isn’t necessarily a reason to rule out your move, it’s smart to research specific neighborhoods, stay aware of local safety, and think about how it might affect your daily life.
Comparing the pros of Alabama vs. North Dakota
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in North Dakota to Alabama:
| Pros of living in Alabama |
Pros of living in North Dakota |
| Low cost of living |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Tasty southern comfort food |
Peaceful rural life |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Affordable living costs |
| Top-notch college football |
High-quality education opportunities |
| Rich history |
Open rural spaces |
Comparing the cons of living in Alabama vs. North Dakota
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Alabama to North Dakota:
| Cons of living in Alabama |
Cons of living in North Dakota |
| Poor quality of life |
Long and cold winters |
| Severe weather |
Lack of diversity |
| Restrictive alcohol laws |
Housing shortages |
| Poor healthcare |
Small populations |
| Cockroaches |
Relaxed lifestyle |
Other things to consider for your Alabama to North Dakota move
-
HOA rules:
Double-check your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises and keep everything running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building’s elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require you to get a parking permit for moving trucks. Check your new local regulations before moving day so you’re not caught off guard.
-
State licensing:
All local and intrastate movers operating in the Flickertail State are regulated by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT).
Each mover in good standing is issued an NDDOT Number, which consumers may check the status and validity of by calling the phone number listed below. Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
-
State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a North Dakota moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in North Dakota, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
-
Change of address:
We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to North Dakota. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
By law, interstate moving companies are required to provide basic insurance coverage, known as “released value protection,” at no extra cost. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, providing minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your selected moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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Moving checklist:
Keep your move stress-free with our handy moving checklist. It’s the easiest way to make sure nothing gets overlooked.
Things to do in North Dakota
Get excited to explore North Dakota. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in North Dakota
- Red River Zoo
- Fargo Air Museum
- North Dakota Museum of Art
- Roger Maris Museum
- Dickinson Museum Center
Parks in North Dakota
- The Dakota Zoo
- Red River Zoo
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- Scandinavian Heritage Park
- Roosevelt Park Zoo
Sports teams in North Dakota
- Bismarck Bobcats (NAHL)
- Fargo Force (USHL)
- Minot Minotauros (NAHL)
Universities in North Dakota
- University of North Dakota
- North Dakota State University
- University of Mary
- Minot State University
- Valley City State University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Alabama to North Dakota?
Do movers transport your car from Alabama to North Dakota?
Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an
additional fee.
But you can also handle
vehicle transport from
Alabama to
North Dakota
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Alabama to North Dakota?
Many people are making the move from Alabama to North Dakota to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in North Dakota has to offer, like ample economic opportunity and peaceful rural life.
Is it cheaper to live in Alabama or North Dakota?
Living in Alabama usually costs less than in North Dakota.
Housing
is more affordable in Alabama,
with average rent about 1% less and home prices 14% lower than in North Dakota.
However, taxes are
lower in North Dakota, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by Alabama residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in North Dakota?
Planning to move to North Dakota? A single adult should aim for an income of around $66,980 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $2,516 for an individual, or $5,264 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Fargo and Bismarck usually have steeper housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Alabama?
Here’s a breakdown of discount types currently available in Alabama:
2 provide military discounts;
1 have senior-discount programs;
5 list student deals;
1 advertise educator discounts;
1 extend special rates to law enforcement.
Availability can change, so always verify details before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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When relocating from Alabama to North Dakota, expect professional movers to cost around
$3,046 to
$6,907, roughly
$2,774 for a container move, and close to
$1,645
for a rental truck.
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