How we chose the best moving companies for your AL to VA 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 Virginia?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Alabama to Virginia.
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 |
$1,190 – $3,818 |
$675 – $1,631 |
$453 – $856 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$2,303 – $5,305 |
$1,241 – $2,447 |
$488 – $1,068 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,662 – $8,153 |
$1,592 – $3,172 |
$641 – $1,229 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 669-mile move from AL to
VA 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 Virginia
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Alabama to Virginia typically costs between
$1,190 and
$3,818.
For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between
$2,303
and $5,305
when moving from AL to VA.
If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Alabama to Virginia,
you’re looking at costs ranging from $3,662
up to $8,153.
Cost of moving containers from Alabama to Virginia
If you’re relocating from Alabama to Virginia,
you’ll typically spend between $675
and $1,631 for a small move.
Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from
$1,241 up to
$2,447.
If you’re moving a larger home—four bedrooms or more—expect to pay anywhere between
$1,592 and
$3,172. 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 Virginia
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
$453 and
$856.
For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from
$488 to
$1,068.
If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move,
your rental truck will likely run between $641 and
$1,229.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AL to VA
Several factors can influence your moving costs from Alabama to Virginia. Here’s what could impact your final bill:
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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 VA
Transitioning from Alabama to Virginia 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. Virginia
Relocating comes with financial tradeoffs, and the contrasts between Alabama and Virginia are worth noting. Here’s how the two states stack up in key areas like job opportunities, taxes, housing, and income:
|
Alabama |
Virginia |
| Average rent |
$925 |
$1,440 |
| Average home cost |
$227,508 |
$392,682 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$59,609 |
$87,249 |
| Cost of living index |
88 |
100 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
9.22% |
5.73% |
| State income tax |
5.0% |
5.75% |
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Rent is about 56% more expensive in Virginia than in Alabama. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
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Make sure to plan for a bigger monthly mortgage payment — home prices in Virginia are roughly 73% higher than in Alabama.
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Good news — you can expect to earn about 46% more in Virginia than in Alabama. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
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Moving to Virginia means you’ll be spending 14% more than you did in Alabama. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
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Unemployment rates are about the same in Alabama and Virginia, so you’re unlikely to see much difference in job opportunities or competition after you move.
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Sales tax in Virginia is 38% 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 15% higher in Virginia compared to Alabama. As a result, you’ll pay more in state taxes, which could lower your take-home pay.
How life is different in Virginia 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 Virginia and Alabama compare.
|
Virginia |
Alabama |
| Population |
8,715,698 |
5,108,468 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 52-48 |
Republican 65-35 |
| Summer high |
87ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
25ºF |
33ºF |
| Annual rain |
44″ |
56″ |
| Annual snow |
14″ |
1″ |
| Crime index |
19.3 |
21.48 |
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If you’re moving from Alabama to Virginia, you’ll find Virginia has about 71% more people.
That bigger population often means better infrastructure, from hospitals and schools to public transit and entertainment.
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In the last presidential election, Virginia leaned Democratic, while Alabama supported Republican.
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The average summer high in Virginia is 87°F, while Alabama averages 91°F.
With temperatures so close, you won’t notice much difference in the heat. Still, don’t forget to factor in humidity, local weather quirks, and energy costs to get the full picture.
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In the coldest months, Virginia dips to about 25°F, colder than 33°F in Alabama.
Colder winters bring higher heating bills and harsher weather — but also beautiful snowy days and winter activities.
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In Virginia, you’ll get about 44 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.
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Each year, Virginia gets about 14 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.
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Virginia boasts a lower crime rate than Alabama, with a crime index of 19.3 compared to 21.48.
This makes for safer neighborhoods and a stronger sense of community. While crime rate isn’t everything, knowing you’re moving somewhere safe is definitely reassuring.
Comparing the pros of Alabama vs. Virginia
Starting fresh in a new place can be thrilling.
Here’s a quick snapshot comparing life in Virginia to Alabama:
| Pros of living in Alabama |
Pros of living in Virginia |
| Low cost of living |
Strong economy |
| Tasty southern comfort food |
Beautiful scenery |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Abundance of outdoor activities |
| Top-notch college football |
Enjoyable four season weather |
| Rich history |
Strong military presence |
Comparing the cons of living in Alabama vs. Virginia
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect.
Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Alabama to Virginia:
| Cons of living in Alabama |
Cons of living in Virginia |
| Poor quality of life |
High cost of living |
| Severe weather |
Unpredictable weather |
| Restrictive alcohol laws |
Bad traffic congestion |
| Poor healthcare |
Lack of public transportation |
| Cockroaches |
Air noise pollution |
Other things to consider for your Alabama to Virginia 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.
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State licensing:
In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Make sure your moving company has the right licenses before you book with them.
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State regulator:
Quickly check the status of a Virginia moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
No moving permit is required in Virginia, but be sure to check local parking regulations before your move.
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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 Virginia. 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. In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
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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 Virginia
Get excited to explore Virginia. Don’t miss these top spots in your new home state:
Museums in Virginia
- Colonial Williamsburg
- Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
- Historic Jamestowne
- Casemate Museum at Fort Monroe
- Military Aviation Museum
Parks in Virginia
- Mill Mountain Star & Park
- Morven Park
- The Mariners’ Museum & Park
- Great Falls Park
- Leesylvania State Park
Sports teams in Virginia
- Fredericksburg Nationals (Low-A East)
- Loudoun United FC (USL Championship)
- Lynchburg Hillcats (Low-A East)
- Norfolk Admirals (ECHL)
- Norfolk Tides Baseball (Triple-A East)
Universities in Virginia
- University of Virginia
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
- George Mason University
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- College of William & Mary
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Alabama to Virginia?
Do movers transport your car from Alabama to Virginia?
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
Virginia
separately through one of the top car shipping companies.
What are the benefits of moving from Alabama to Virginia?
Many people are making the move from Alabama to Virginia to take advantage of all the great benefits that life in Virginia has to offer, like strong economy and beautiful scenery.
Is it cheaper to live in Alabama or Virginia?
Living in Alabama usually costs less than in Virginia.
Housing
is much more affordable in Alabama,
with average rent about 36% less and home prices 42% lower than in Virginia.
Taxes are also
lower in Alabama, most notably income taxes, which are more than 10% less than those paid by Virginia residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Virginia?
Planning to move to Virginia? A single adult should aim for an income of around $72,647 to live comfortably.
Monthly costs average $19,977 for an individual, or $4,783 for a family of four.
Your expenses depend a lot on location — bigger cities like Neabsco and Virginia Beach 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 Virginia, expect professional movers to cost around
$2,303 to
$5,305, roughly
$1,844 for a container move, and close to
$778
for a rental truck.
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