Quick answer: The cost to move from St. Louis to Birmingham ranges from $526 to $6,623 and the journey will take approximately one to four days. Key factors influencing these estimates include your moving volume, chosen moving date, and whether you opt for professional movers or handle the 498-mile move on your own.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Birmingham to St. Louis guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
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Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from St. Louis to Birmingham

Choosing a long-distance mover for your trip from St. Louis to Birmingham can be tough. With so many options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed about who you can truly count on.

Save yourself the hassle of sorting through countless moving companies — we've already narrowed down the best for you. Our favorites earned their spots thanks to rave reviews, budget-friendly prices, and versatile services to suit any type of move.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your MO to AL movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 28 Missouri movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local moving companies servicing St. Louis to Birmingham moves

When planning a move from St. Louis to Birmingham, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. There are plenty of companies, but which ones are actually worth it?

We've taken care of the research for you — reviewing local movers in St. Louis who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from St. Louis to Birmingham.

  1. Arch Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  2. McGuire Moving and Storage: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  5. Cord Moving and Storage: 4.72 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/ArchMovingSt.Louis, https://twitter.com/archmoving?lang=en
58% of all reviews were positive
33% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input reveals Arch Moving stands out for efficient service, professional and polite staff, and careful handling—traits that rank it higher than many competitors. Out of 76 reviews analyzed, 58% were positive. Customers highlight quick moving, helpful movers, and care for belongings as main strengths.
On the other hand, 33% of input cited problems, mainly damage to items, inexperienced movers, and lack of communication. Multiple customers experienced property or item damage, with some reports of lost items and unsatisfactory claims processes. Others found crews lacking experience or communication lacking, particularly from office staff. While many noted friendly, hardworking movers and fast, well-organized moves, negative feedback points to greater risk of damage or mishandling than top-rated moving companies. Those seeking value and efficiency often found the service met or exceeded expectations, yet those who value reliability and item safety should proceed with caution and discuss coverage and experience with the company before booking.
Show more
Get a Quote (314) 964-5557

Company Info

State license #: 2969512

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 22

DOT #: 2969512


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/McGuireMoving/,
82% of all reviews were positive
17% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input paints McGuire Moving and Storage as a leader for professionalism and skilled handling. Of 130 reviews, 82% were favorable, with clients praising the courteous staff, careful approach, efficiency, and effective communication. The company’s teams consistently earn recommendations, with multiple customers reporting stress-free and damage-free moves.
Negative feedback, making up about 17%, centers on item damage, lost belongings, and select instances of unprofessionalism or poor service recovery. Despite a few cases of unresolved issues, customers more often highlight reliability and a hands-on approach not easily found with competitors. McGuire sets itself apart by maintaining a highly praised team and strong follow-up, though, on rare occasions, resolution on damage or loss lags behind client expectations.
Show more
Get a Quote (314) 241-0600

Company Info

State license #: 2256609

Years in Business: 45

DOT #: 2256609

Alternate Names: McGuire Moving Co.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
https://www.facebook.com/twomenstlouis/, https://twitter.com/TwoMenstlouis
76% of all reviews were positive
22% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day made simple: feedback from 361 reviewers shows two out of three customers raved about Two Men and a Truck’s speed, careful handling, and positive, professional attitude. Three out of four reviews praised efficient service, noting teams that work quickly while respecting belongings and property. Customers repeatedly mention helpful staff making moves less stressful.
On the downside, about 22% flagged issues, with damaged items as the top concern. Some reported belongings arrived scratched or broken, while others found their final bills exceeded estimates by hundreds of dollars. Delays or late arrivals also frustrated a portion of customers. Compared to many movers, Two Men and a Truck earns higher marks for courtesy and efficiency, but shoppers sensitive to cost or worried about valuables should stay vigilant and clarify terms before moving day.
Show more
Get a Quote (314) 270-5758

Company Info

State license #: 714664

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/AllMySons/, https://twitter.com/allmysonsmoving
53% of all reviews were positive
47% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers say All My Sons Moving & Storage often delivers fast, polite, and efficient service. Over half of feedback highlights teams that work quickly, handle belongings carefully, and keep a positive attitude during moves. Movers are commonly described as professional, respectful, and diligent.
Many customers recommend the company for their reliability and approachability. At the same time, nearly half of input reveals major issues with unexpected charges, higher-than-quoted bills, damaged items, and late arrivals. Several customers report being surprised by additional fees, or receiving items with new damage. On-time moves and accurate pricing stand out as frequent pain points. Compared to many competitors, these movers achieve high marks for care and speed but recurring cost and communication problems hold them back.
Show more
Get a Quote (636) 328-0545

Company Info

State license #: 1803212

Years in Business: 24

DOT #: 902281


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/cordmovingandstorage, https://twitter.com/cordmoving
85% of all reviews were positive
15% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer input for Cord Moving and Storage is packed with high marks for professionalism and efficiency. Out of 238 reviews assessed, 84.5% are positive, highlighting polite staff, great care with belongings, fast and organized moves, and strong communication. Many mention courteous crews who arrived on time and kept customers informed, which sets Cord apart from many moving companies.
Competitive pricing and helpful follow-up also stand out in feedback. On the downside, about 15% of users report significant frustrations—mainly around damaged items, difficulties with insurance claims, late or missing communication, and a few delayed deliveries. These complaints often reference a lack of response or unsatisfactory handling when issues arise. While most customers walk away pleased and stress-free, those who face problems with claims or lost property note long wait times for resolutions. Cord Moving and Storage consistently earns praise for careful, efficient movers and friendly assistance, but some reviews describe occasional breakdowns in care and communication, especially when problems occur. Compared with typical movers, Cord's high rate of glowing reviews and low price reports put them at the industry’s front line for reliability, although resolving issues after a move can sometimes fall short.
Show more
Get a Quote (866) 742-1558

Company Info

State license #: 181102

Years in Business: 105

DOT #: 181102

Alternate Names: North American Moving Services, Cord Moving & Storage Company Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from St. Louis to Birmingham?

St. Louis movers charge $145 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,407 - $3,846 $873 - $1,997 $523 - $883
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,444 - $6,623 $1,470 - $2,924 $526 - $1,069
4+ bedrooms $4,272 - $9,126 $2,016 - $3,753 $674 - $1,315
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 498 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Missouri to Alabama

If you're moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Missouri to Alabama, you can expect to spend between $1,407 and $3,846. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,444 to $6,623 on the same route (MO to AL). Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Missouri to Alabama typically runs between $4,272 and $9,126.

Cost of moving containers from Missouri to Alabama

Moving from Missouri to Alabama? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $873 and $1,997. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,470 to $2,924. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,016 up to $3,753. 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 Missouri.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Missouri to Alabama

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 $523 and $883. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $526 to $1,069. If you're tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $674 and $1,315.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Key factors that impact the cost of your St. Louis to Birmingham movetoggle

The cost of St. Louis movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from St. Louis to Birmingham can be as low as $1,407 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $7,645.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in St. Louis so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $523 to $1,233. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from St. Louis to Birmingham

Moving from St. Louis to Birmingham comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Birmingham is generally more expensive than St. Louis, it's important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

St. Louis Birmingham
Average rent cost $1,250 $1,250
Average home value $171,463 $125,988
Average income (per capita) $66,090 $39,403
Cost of living (single person) $2,589 $2,697
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,573 $6,727
Unemployment rate 6.3% 5.6%
Sales tax 9.68% 10.0%
State income tax 4.8% 5.0%
  • Rent prices are the same in Birmingham and St. Louis.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Birmingham.
    Home prices in Birmingham are 26.5% lower than in St. Louis.
  • Income in Birmingham is 40.4% lower than in St. Louis, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Birmingham — including Encompass Health, Regions Bank, and University of Alabama at Birmingham — may pay more.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Birmingham, since the cost of living for a single person in Birmingham is 4.2% higher than in St. Louis. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Birmingham, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Birmingham is 2.3% higher than in St. Louis.
  • The unemployment rate in Birmingham is 11.11% lower than in St. Louis.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Birmingham, since its sales taxes are 3.31% higher than what you are paying in St. Louis.
  • State income taxes in Birmingham are 4.17% higher than in St. Louis.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,125.14 in Birmingham to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in St. Louis.

How life is different in St. Louis vs. Birmingham

Birmingham St. Louis
Population 196,644 293,310
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 0 8
Walkability score 33 66
Bike friendliness score 31 58
Crime Index 61.64 69.65
Safety Index 38.36 30.35
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Birmingham might offer you a slower pace of life, since the population is about 33% less than St. Louis.
  • Getting around Birmingham without a car might be more difficult than in St. Louis. Birmingham has a public transportation score of 0 out of 10, whereas St. Louis is ranked 8. Ratings are based on a city's transit connectivity, service frequency, and accessibility to key destinations like jobs and grocery stores.
  • Birmingham neighborhoods and districts might not be as easy to navigate on foot as St. Louis. Based on its score of 33 out of 100, Birmingham isn't as walkable as St. Louis, which has a score of 66 out of 100. The higher the walkability score a city has, the easier it is to access amenities. The most walkable cities also tend to be more densely populated and have shorter block lengths.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Birmingham, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than St. Louis. While St. Louis has a bike-friendliness score of 58 out of 100, Birmingham earned a 31. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • Birmingham has a lower crime rate than St. Louis based on scores of 61.64 and St. Louis's 69.65, respectively. The crime index shows how safe a city is perceived to be. So, a lower score generally means less crime.
  • You might find more confidence in your overall safety in Birmingham than in St. Louis, based on Birmingham's safety index of 38.36 versus 30.35 for St. Louis. With this index, higher scores indicate more safety, particularly around how comfortable residents feel walking alone during the day and at night.
  • You can breathe easy knowing that Birmingham has better air quality than in St. Louis. Birmingham has Good air quality, compared to moderate in St. Louis. Ratings of good to moderate mean very low risk of health concerns, although people with conditions like asthma or allergies could be affected. Beyond the moderate rating, health concerns increase for some or all residents.

Other things to consider for your St. Louis vs. Birmingham move

  • Weather: Birmingham has hot summers, mild winters, and abundant rainfall. Birmingham is also located in tornado alley.
  • HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Alabama moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Alabama, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Birmingham Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Birmingham

Now that you've chosen B'ham as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Birmingham to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Central City
  • Five Points South
  • Highland Park
  • Fountain Heights
  • Southside

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Oxmoor
  • Crestwood South
  • Redmont Park

Things to do in Birmingham

After settling into your new Alabama home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Birmingham has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

  • Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Birmingham, such as the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Vulcan Park and Museum, McWane Science Center, and Birmingham Museum of Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's Vulcan Park and Museum, Birmingham's Railroad Park, Kelly Ingram Park, and Red Mountain Park — along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Birmingham Barons, UAB Blazers, Samford University teams, or Birmingham Legion FC game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from St. Louis to Birmingham?

The best time to move from St. Louis to Birmingham is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in St. Louis.

When is the cheapest time to move from St. Louis to Birmingham?

With many people choosing to move from St. Louis to Birmingham in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.

How long does a move from St. Louis to Birmingham take?

The 498-mile move from St. Louis, MO, to Birmingham, AL, takes one to four days. Some St. Louis movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Birmingham.

Helpful moving resources