How we chose the best moving companies for your AR to AL move
Using rate data from 24 Arkansas movers, our team spotlighted the top companies that deliver on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost-effectiveness.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Owns mistakes and works quickly to make things right when issues pop up.
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Industry reputation (15%): Well regarded in the moving community and engaged in professional groups.
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Online reputation (15%): Accurate website info plus timely, professional replies to messages and reviews.
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Service options (10%): Full-service capabilities—packing, storage, specialty handling, and expedited options.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Arkansas to Alabama?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Arkansas
to Alabama with different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$1,074 – $3,138 |
$625 – $1,531 |
$353 – $670 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,859 – $4,991 |
$1,108 – $2,194 |
$372 – $811 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,044 – $7,502 |
$1,516 – $2,890 |
$468 – $917 |
*These ranges are rough estimates for a 430-mile move from AR to
AL, based on pricing data
compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. We gather thousands of verified prices from
movers nationwide and refresh the dataset each month to reflect seasonal shifts and market changes.
Your actual cost can vary with factors like shipment size, add-on services, parking or access
constraints, fuel costs, and timing. To get the most accurate number, compare quotes from
several moving companies.
Cost to hire movers from Arkansas to Alabama
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Arkansas to Alabama,
you can expect to spend between $1,074
and $3,138.
For a two- or three-bedroom place,
prices usually range from $1,859 to
$4,991 on the same route
(AR to AL). Got a larger household? Moving a
four- or five-bedroom home from Arkansas to Alabama typically runs between
$3,044 and
$7,502.
Cost of moving containers from Arkansas to Alabama
Moving from Arkansas to Alabama? For a small load,
you’ll likely pay between $625 and
$1,531. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home,
costs usually range from $1,108 to
$2,194. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house?
Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,516 up to
$2,890. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our
complete PODS cost guide.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies
to help with your move from Arkansas.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Arkansas to Alabama
Looking to save money? Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option.
Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between
$353 and
$670.
For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between
$372 and
$811.
Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be
somewhere between $468 and
$917.
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from AR to AL
There are many factors that influence Arkansas moving costs. The cost to move from Arkansas to Alabama will depend on these factors:
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How much you’re bringing: A bigger load, like a full house, will always cost more than moving a small apartment.
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When you move: Summer moves in Arkansas fall during peak demand, so expect higher rates.
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Professional movers or DIY: Going the DIY route is cheaper, but full-service movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you.
What to know before moving from AR to AL
Moving between Arkansas and Alabama involves more than distance — it’s about understanding how your everyday life will change.
Cost of living: Arkansas vs. Alabama
Before making your move, it’s helpful to understand how living expenses stack up between
Arkansas and Alabama. From housing and income to taxes and unemployment rates,
this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer picture of the financial differences that may impact your budget and lifestyle.
Take a look at how the two states compare across key cost-of-living factors:
|
Arkansas |
Alabama |
| Average rent |
$868 |
$925 |
| Average home cost |
$208,078 |
$227,508 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$56,335 |
$59,609 |
| Cost of living index |
90 |
88 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.3% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
9.51% |
9.22% |
| State income tax |
2.0% |
5.0% |
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Rent costs 7% more in Alabama compared to Arkansas. Be sure to factor this increase into your monthly budget.
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Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in Alabama to be about 9% more than what you’ll find in Arkansas.
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Great news — you’re likely to make about 6% more in Alabama compared to Arkansas. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
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Since the cost of living is about the same in Arkansas and Alabama, you can focus less on your budget and more on choosing the home that suits your lifestyle best.
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Alabama has a higher unemployment rate than Arkansas by about 26%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
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Sales tax is similar in Alabama and Arkansas, so you won’t see much change in what you pay at the register after your move.
-
Income taxes in Alabama are 150% higher than in Arkansas. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home less pay.
How life is different in Alabama vs. Arkansas
Starting fresh in a new state means adjusting to more than just logistics. Weather trends, crime levels, political climate, and population density all play into the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of how Alabama differs from Arkansas in these areas.
|
Alabama |
Arkansas |
| Population |
5,108,468 |
3,067,732 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 65-35 |
Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high |
91ºF |
91ºF |
| Winter low |
33ºF |
28ºF |
| Annual rain |
56″ |
50″ |
| Annual snow |
1″ |
4″ |
| Crime index |
21.48 |
30.97 |
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If you’re relocating from Arkansas to Alabama, you’ll notice that Alabama has about 67% more residents.
With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
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In the last presidential election, both Arkansas and Alabama voted Republican.
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Summer highs in Alabama average 91°F, almost the same as 91°F in Arkansas.
With such similar conditions, your adjustment should be smooth, though humidity and weather patterns may still play a role.
-
In Alabama, winter lows are about 33°F, while Arkansas averages 28°F.
With such a small difference, your seasonal routine and expenses should stay about the same.
-
Expect about 56 inches of rain each year in Alabama — a big shift from the 50 inches you’re used to in Arkansas.
While the extra rain makes for lush landscapes, it also means more wet days. Don’t forget your rain gear and be ready to adapt for a smooth, comfortable transition.
-
In Alabama, you’ll get about 1 inch of snow each year.
Meanwhile, Arkansas usually sees around 4 inches annually.
With snowfall levels being similar in both states, you shouldn’t run into any surprising weather issues after you move.
-
Alabama offers a safer environment than Arkansas, with a crime index of 21.48 versus 30.97.
You’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and fewer worries. While crime rates aren’t the whole story, it’s reassuring to know you’re headed somewhere more secure.
Comparing the pros of Arkansas vs. Alabama
There’s something exciting about a fresh start.
Here’s a quick look at how life in Alabama stacks up against Arkansas:
| Pros of living in Arkansas |
Pros of living in Alabama |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Low cost of living |
| Low cost of living |
Tasty southern comfort food |
| Diverse lifestyle opportunities |
Bountiful recreational opportunities |
| Fantastic weather |
Top-notch college football |
| Natural beauty |
Rich history |
Comparing the cons of living in Arkansas vs. Alabama
Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are.
As you get ready to move from Arkansas to Alabama, keep these tips in mind:
| Cons of living in Arkansas |
Cons of living in Alabama |
| High crime rate |
Poor quality of life |
| Dangerous wildlife |
Severe weather |
| Poor education |
Restrictive alcohol laws |
| Pervasive poverty |
Poor healthcare |
| Strange laws |
Cockroaches |
Other things to consider for your Arkansas to Alabama move
-
HOA rules:
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
-
Elevator reservation:
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator and checking out the rules for using it on moving day.
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Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so be sure to check your new local rules before moving day to avoid any surprises.
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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. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
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State regulator:
Easily verify the status of a Alabama moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
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Moving permits:
Alabama does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
-
Change of address:
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Just set your official move date, and your mail will be forwarded to Alabama right on time. Get started here.
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Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” for free. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Things to do in Alabama
Get ready to discover Alabama. Check out these must-visit places in your new home state:
Museums in Alabama
- Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
- U.S. Space and Rocket Center
- Battleship USS ALABAMA
- Legacy Museum
- Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Parks in Alabama
- Gulf State Park
- Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
- Sipsey Wilderness
- The Wharf
- Orange Beach Waterfront Park
Sports teams in Alabama
- Auburn Tigers (NCAA)
- Alabama Crimson Tide (NCAA)
- AFC Mobile (NPSL)
- Dixie Derby Girls (WFTDA)
- Birmingham Squadron (NBA G League)
Universities in Alabama
- The University of Alabama
- Auburn University
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham
- The University of Alabama in Huntsville
- Samford University
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Arkansas to Alabama?
Do movers transport your car from Arkansas to Alabama?
Many full-service moving companies can arrange auto transport for an extra fee as part of your moving
package. Alternatively, you can book
vehicle
transport from Arkansas to Alabama
separately with a leading car shipping provider.
What are the benefits of moving from Arkansas to Alabama?
More and more folks are relocating from Arkansas to Alabama to enjoy all the perks that come with living there, such as low cost of living and tasty southern comfort food.
Is it cheaper to live in Arkansas or Alabama?
Living in Arkansas usually costs less than in Alabama.
While the overall cost of living is similar for both states, housing
is more affordable in Arkansas,
with average rent about 6% less and home prices 9% lower than in Alabama.
Taxes are also
lower in Arkansas, most notably income taxes, which are more than 60% less than those paid by Alabama residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Alabama?
If you’re planning to live on your own in Alabama, aim for an income of around $50,117 to live comfortably.
Expect monthly expenses to be about $2,494 if you’re flying solo, or $4,812 for a family of four.
Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Huntsville and Montgomery usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Arkansas?
Looking to save on your move? These discounts are currently offered in Arkansas.
Military families can take advantage of special pricing through 1 moving companies.
Savings for seniors are available from 1 movers.
Terms differ by mover, so ask about current discounts when requesting quotes.
Helpful moving resources
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When planning a move from Arkansas to Alabama, professional movers typically run between
$1,859 and $4,991, a moving container averages about
$1,651, and a rental truck is around
$591.
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