How we chose the best moving companies for your AL to PA 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 Pennsylvania?
Check out the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Alabama to Pennsylvania.
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 |
$1,215 – $4,867 |
$837 – $1,962 |
$595 – $1,187 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,505 – $6,091 |
$1,446 – $2,872 |
$691 – $1,468 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,917 – $8,110 |
$1,890 – $3,925 |
$823 – $1,734 |
*Estimated costs for a 988-mile move from AL to
PA 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 Pennsylvania
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Alabama to Pennsylvania will cost between
$1,215 and
$4,867.
The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from AL to PA will
range from $2,505 to
$6,091, and a large move from Alabama
to Pennsylvania will cost from $3,917
to $8,110.
Cost of moving containers from Alabama to Pennsylvania
If you’re moving from Alabama to Pennsylvania,
expect to pay between $837
and $1,962 for a small load.
For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from
$1,446 up to
$2,872.
Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,890 and
$3,925. 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 Pennsylvania
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
$595 and
$1,187.
For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $691
and $1,468. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home?
You’re likely looking at anywhere from $823 up to
$1,734 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AL to PA
A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Alabama to Pennsylvania. 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 PA
A relocation from Alabama to Pennsylvania comes with changes worth comparing, from lifestyle shifts to daily routines.
Cost of living: Alabama vs. Pennsylvania
Comparing expenses in Alabama and Pennsylvania 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 |
Pennsylvania |
| Average rent |
$925 |
$1,110 |
| Average home cost |
$227,508 |
$268,824 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$59,609 |
$73,170 |
| Cost of living index |
88 |
99 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
9.22% |
6.34% |
| State income tax |
5.0% |
3.07% |
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Rent in Pennsylvania is approximately 20% 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 18% higher in Pennsylvania than in Alabama.
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Here’s some great news: average incomes are about 23% higher in Pennsylvania compared to Alabama. That means you’ll likely have more to save or invest each month.
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Moving to Pennsylvania means you’ll be paying 13% 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 Pennsylvania is about 17% 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 Pennsylvania is 31% lower than in Alabama. If you have a large family or higher spending habits, this reduced rate in Pennsylvania can really help lower your monthly costs.
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Income taxes are 39% lower in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania stacks up against Alabama across important lifestyle factors:
|
Pennsylvania |
Alabama |
| Population |
12,961,683 |
5,108,468 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Republican 65-35 |
| Summer high |
83ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
19ºF |
33ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
56″ |
| Annual snow |
38″ |
1″ |
| Crime index |
17.62 |
21.48 |
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Pennsylvania is about 154% 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 Pennsylvania supported the Republican candidate.
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Pennsylvania averages 83°F in summer, a cooler contrast to 91°F in Alabama.
Expect milder summers, lower utility costs, and more time to enjoy being outdoors.
-
During the coldest part of the year, Pennsylvania drops to about 19°F while Alabama only reaches 33°F.
Moving to Pennsylvania with its colder winters means preparing for higher heating costs and more intense weather — but it also brings unique seasonal beauty.
-
You’ll enjoy about 44 inches of rain each year in Pennsylvania, 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.
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Every year, Pennsylvania gets around 38 inches of snow, much more than the 1 inch that Alabama typically sees.
With all that extra snow, you’ll enjoy stunning winter scenery and tons of outdoor fun, but you’ll also have to do more prep work in the winter.
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Pennsylvania has a lower crime rate than Alabama with a crime index of 17.62 vs. 21.48.
A lower crime rate is a great sign. It typically means safer streets, stronger communities, and fewer disruptions. While it’s not the only factor to consider, it adds valuable peace of mind to your move.
Comparing the pros of Alabama vs. Pennsylvania
Starting over somewhere new is always exciting.
Check out this quick comparison of what life’s like in Pennsylvania versus Alabama:
| Pros of living in Alabama |
Pros of living in Pennsylvania |
| Low cost of living |
Low cost of living |
| Tasty southern comfort food |
Abundant fun and recreational activities |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Beautiful landscapes |
| Top-notch college football |
Ample economic opportunity |
| Rich history |
Excellent education options |
Comparing the cons of living in Alabama vs. Pennsylvania
Moving from Alabama to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania |
| Poor quality of life |
Harsh winter weather |
| Severe weather |
Bad driving conditions |
| Restrictive alcohol laws |
Nuclear power plants |
| Poor healthcare |
Unpredictable weather |
| Cockroaches |
High taxes on gasoline |
Other things to consider for your Alabama to Pennsylvania 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.
-
State licensing:
For decades movers In Pennsylvania were regulated by the Public Utility Commission (PUC).
Each company was issued a PUC Number and was required to abide by a universal publicly published tariff that established the rates movers could charge for various services.
Now, some sources claim that the PUC no longer regulates in-state movers, and it appears as though the PUC’s website is no longer functioning. So if you’re moving within Pennsylvania, you’ll want to address these issues with your moving company representative and if possible, contact the state directly. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
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State regulator:
Easily verify a Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania 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. In Pennsylvania, movers typically offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For more comprehensive coverage, inquire about Full Value Protection with the moving company, or explore third-party insurance options for tailored plans. Consider coverage limits, additional costs, and reviews before making a decision.
-
Moving checklist:
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Things to do in Pennsylvania
Get ready to discover all that Pennsylvania has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new state:
Museums in Pennsylvania
- Eastern State Penitentiary
- The Hershey Story Museum
- National Civil War Museum
- SteelStacks
- Steamtown National Historic Site
Parks in Pennsylvania
- Gettysburg National Military Park
- Presque Isle State Park
- Core Creek Park
- Allentown Fish Hatchery
- Rocky Ridge County Park
Sports teams in Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia 76ers (NBA)
- Philadelphia Eagles Football (NFL)
- Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)
- Philadelphia Phillies (MLB)
- Philadelphia Union (MLS)
Universities in Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania
- Penn State University
- Carnegie Mellon University.
- University of Pittsburgh
- Temple University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Alabama to Pennsylvania?
Do movers transport your car from Alabama to Pennsylvania?
What are the benefits of moving from Alabama to Pennsylvania?
The main reasons people are moving from Alabama to Pennsylvania are the amazing upsides of living in Pennsylvania, such as low cost of living and abundant fun and recreational activities.
Is it cheaper to live in Alabama or Pennsylvania?
Living in Alabama usually costs less than in Pennsylvania.
Housing
is more affordable in Alabama,
with average rent about 17% less and home prices 15% lower than in Pennsylvania.
However, taxes are
lower in Pennsylvania, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Alabama residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Pennsylvania?
You should make approximately $56,150 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in Pennsylvania.
The cost of living in Pennsylvania is about $2,452 per month for an individual and $5,603 for a family of four.
Exact expenses will vary depending on your city. Larger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh 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 Pennsylvania, expect to spend between
$2,505–$6,091 if using professional movers, about
$2,159 for a moving container, and around
$1,079
for a rental truck.
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