|
|
|
Licensed
Insured
Price
|
Tennessee to Alabama Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
- When moving from Tennessee to Alabama, a two-bedroom move with professional movers is commonly $1,500–$4,000. See More Costs*Estimates assume a 2–3 bedroom household with one–four day delivery. Your costs and timelines vary by home size, distance, and seasonality.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific Tennessee to Alabama move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from Tennessee to Alabama is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
Who are the best movers to move from Tennessee to Alabama?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from Tennessee to Alabama is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from Tennessee to Alabama below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
|
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from Tennessee to Alabama
We recommend using a professional, long-distance mover for your Tennessee to Alabama move, since they’re built for the coordination a 257 journey can require. After analyzing 3,180 movers, the moveBuddha team determined that 2,642 (83%) offer interstate services. Using our thorough rating methodology, our moving experts narrowed the field to the top providers equipped to handle your move from Tennessee to Alabama.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
How much does it cost to move from Tennessee to Alabama?
It costs between $1,500–$5,500 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from Tennessee to Alabama. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2 – 3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from Tennessee to Alabama?
Moving from Tennessee to Alabama can cost anywhere from $860–$4,784, but most people pay around $1,529–$3,989 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $860 – $2,932 | $552 – $1,370 | $271 – $499 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $1,529 – $4,428 | $1,043 – $1,954 | $288 – $591 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,002 – $5,546 | $1,335 – $2,322 | $349 – $675 |
These are approximate estimates for a 257-mile move from TN to AL using moveBuddha pricing data as of Jan 29, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $1,529 – $4,428 to hire a moving company to move you from Tennessee to Alabama. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $860 – $2,932
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,529 – $4,428
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,002 – $5,546
How much do moving containers cost from Tennessee to Alabama?
Using a moving container from Tennessee to Alabama costs, on average, $1,043 – $1,954. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $552 – $1,370
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,043 – $1,954
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,335 – $2,322
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from Tennessee to Alabama will costs you between $288 – $591, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $271 – $499
- 2–3 bedrooms: $288 – $591
- 4+ bedrooms: $349 – $675
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from Tennessee to Alabama, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from TN to AL?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Alabama — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $1,047 in Tennessee to $925 in Alabama, and average home values go from $319,208 to $227,508.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (90 vs. 88), unemployment (3.3% vs. 2.9%), and taxes — including average sales tax (9.55% vs. 9.22%) and state income tax (0.0% vs. 5.0%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| Tennessee | Alabama | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,047 | $925 |
| Average home cost | $319,208 | $227,508 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,035 | $59,609 |
| Cost of living index | 90 | 88 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 2.9% |
| Average sales tax | 9.55% | 9.22% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 5.0% |
Will rent be more expensive in Alabama?
Rent is about 12% lower in Alabama than in Tennessee.
Avg rent: $1,047 vs. $925
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 29% lower in Alabama than in Tennessee.
Avg home value: $319,208 vs. $227,508
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 7% lower in Alabama than in Tennessee.
Avg income (per capita): $64,035 vs. $59,609
Is the overall cost of living higher in Alabama?
The cost of living is about the same in Tennessee and Alabama.
Cost of living index: 90 vs. 88
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax rates are similar in Tennessee and Alabama.
Avg sales tax: 9.55% vs. 9.22%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Alabama has a state income tax, while Tennessee does not — plan for higher paycheck deductions.
State income tax: 0.0% vs. 5.0%
How is daily life different in Alabama compared to Tennessee?
Starting fresh means adjusting to more than logistics — climate, crime, and culture shape the experience.
| Alabama | Tennessee | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,108,468 | 7,126,489 |
| Political leaning | Republican 65-35 | Republican 64-36 |
| Summer high | 91ºF | 88ºF |
| Winter low | 33ºF | 27ºF |
| Annual rain | 56″ | 53″ |
| Annual snow | 1″ | 5″ |
| Crime index | 21.48 | 29.24 |
Will Alabama feel more crowded than Tennessee?
Alabama is about 28% less populous than Tennessee — which can mean more space and a slower pace.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, both Tennessee and Alabama voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (91°F vs. 88°F).
Winter: Alabama is milder on average (33°F vs. 27°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Alabama?
Rain: Annual rainfall is pretty similar (56″ vs. 53″).
Snow: Snowfall is similar (1 inch vs. 5 inches).
Is Alabama safer than Tennessee?
Alabama has a lower crime index than Tennessee (21.48 vs. 29.24), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Alabama?
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
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your Tennessee 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- State regulator: Easily verify the status of a Alabama moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- 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. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide basic insurance 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.
- Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
A key task to tackle early is booking your building’s elevator.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Alabama?
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Alabama?
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.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Alabama moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Alabama?
Alabama does not require any moving permits.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Get started here.
Federal law requires basic insurance for interstate moves. 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.
Some movers in Tennessee offer discounts: 5 military discounts; 3 senior discounts; 2 student discounts; 1 educator discounts; 2 law enforcement discounts.
Discount types, amounts, and eligibility vary.
Keep moving day simple with our moving checklist.
Handy Moving Resources
Tennessee Moving Services
Frequently Traveled Tennessee Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!