Best Oakland to Bakersfield Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Oakland to Bakersfield and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 272 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 74 Oakland to Bakersfield moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Sweet Lemon Moving Services), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Oakland compared to Bakersfield. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Oakland to Bakersfield Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability Index
1Sweet Lemon Moving Services9.779.67
2Quantum Moving9.719.78
3OCD Moving Services LLC9.669.47
4Fit Movers LLC9.229.41
5Smooth Move USA - Bakersfield CA Movers8.638.65
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Oakland to Bakersfield?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 272 miles from Oakland, CA to Bakersfield, CA will cost on average $2,013 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Oakland to Bakersfield move is roughly $4,810. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,357300 ft³$4.52
1 Bedroom$2,013450 ft³$4.47
2 Bedrooms$3,317750 ft³$4.42
3 Bedrooms$4,8101100 ft³$4.37
4 Bedrooms$6,9161600 ft³$4.32
5+ Bedrooms$7,6901800 ft³$4.27
*Please note: These California to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Bakersfield to Oakland guide.

Compare the 5 Best Oakland to Bakersfield Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sweet Lemon Moving Services Logo

Sweet Lemon Moving Services

Exceptional9.77/10
based on 3,489+ data points

403 Elwood Ave

Oakland, CA, 94610

About Sweet Lemon Moving Services

As a full-service moving company, Sweet Lemon Moving Services has been performing moves in Oakland and the wider Bay Area since...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Interstate Moves
  • Commercial Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3277021 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Quantum Moving Logo

Quantum Moving

Exceptional9.71/10
based on 1,349+ data points

535 Main St

Martinez, CA, 94553

About Quantum Moving

Quantum Moving is located in Martinez, California, and has been serving families and businesses in the surrounding areas with local and...

Services

  • Bay Area Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services Within California
  • Commercial Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3163557 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved35,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 2,922+ data points

5914 Cobblestone Ct

El Sobrante, CA, 94803

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Fit Movers LLC Logo

Fit Movers LLC

Exceptional9.22/10
based on 1,193+ data points

2005 Eye St

Bakersfield, CA, 93301

About Fit Movers LLC

Fit Movers LLC is a professional moving company that provides first-rate service at an unbeatable value. This family-owned and operated business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Loading and Unloading

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3455958 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved12,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Smooth Move USA - Bakersfield CA Movers Logo

Smooth Move USA - Bakersfield CA Movers

Fabulous8.63/10
based on 1,526+ data points

3101 Gilmore Ave

Bakersfield, CA, 93308

About Smooth Move USA - Bakersfield CA Movers

Smooth Move USA has been in business for over 13 years and has built an outstanding reputation among the residents of...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance
  • Commercial Moves
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Oakland vs. Bakersfield Neighborhood Comparison

Moving between cities can be a daunting task, especially when you're unfamiliar with your new hometown. To ease this transition, we're providing a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Bakersfield, CA, offering insights into how each city's communities parallel one another. This guide aims to help you discover a new neighborhood that feels like home.

OaklandBakersfieldHow They're Similar
RockridgeSeven OaksUpscale, family-friendly atmosphere
TemescalHaggin OaksVibrant shopping and dining scene
Piedmont AvenueStockdale EstatesHistoric charm, local amenities
MontclairOlde StockdaleQuiet, lush landscapes
Jack London SquareDowntown BakersfieldEntertainment, waterfront dining
Grand LakeWestchesterCultural heart, historic area
Adams PointRosedaleSpacious parks, family orientation
GlenviewLaurelglenQuiet, community-driven with green spaces
Lake MerrittRiverlakesMan-made lake, community activities
UptownDowntown BakersfieldArts, nightlife scene

For those enchanted by the bustling vibe of Uptown Oakland, with its array of theatres, bars, and art galleries like the Fox Theater and the Oakland Museum of California, the arts and nightlife scene of Downtown Bakersfield will feel familiar. Downtown Bakersfield hosts a variety of entertainment options, from live performances at the Fox Theater Bakersfield to the Bakersfield Museum of Art. Similarly, if the serene, park-like setting of Lake Merritt, surrounded by jogging paths and the historic Fairyland, has been your go-to spot, Riverlakes in Bakersfield offers an inviting alternative with its community-centered activities and scenic lake views, providing both tranquility and a sense of community.

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Things to Do in Bakersfield

  • Explore Buena Vista Museum of Natural History
  • Attend a concert at Mechanics Bank Arena
  • Enjoy family fun at Camelot Park
  • Sample local wines at Kern County Wine Country
  • Ride bikes along Kern River Parkway Trail
  • Stroll through Kern County Museum
  • Watch a race at Kern County Raceway Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Bakersfield

Moving homes is a significant life change that requires careful consideration of both the benefits and the drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Oakland, CA to Bakersfield, CA , allowing you to weigh your options thoroughly. Below, you'll find two charts designed to contrast the challenges and advantages of making this move.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • More traffic
  • Denser population
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less congestion
  • More space
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer restaurants
  • Smaller job market
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Vibrant culture
  • Diverse dining options
  • Greater job opportunities

In considering a move from Oakland to Bakersfield, one transitions from a bustling urban environment with a diverse cultural scene and variety of dining and entertainment options to a city where the pace of life is notably slower, space is more abundant, and the cost of living is significantly lower. While Oakland boasts iconic establishments like Oakland Museum of California and popular areas like Jack London Square, Bakersfield offers its own charm with unique spots like Carrizo Plain National Monument for nature lovers and the famous Buck Owens' Crystal Palace for country music fans. The trade-offs involve adjusting from a higher cost of living and denser population to embracing more space and a quieter, yet still fulfilling, lifestyle.

Oakland vs. Bakersfield Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Bakersfield. Understanding the food scene is vital, as food greatly influences the local culture and daily life experience in any area. We aim to provide a snapshot of what culinary delights you can expect as you transition from Oakland to Bakersfield.

Oakland
Bakersfield
Most iconic local food item
Sourdough Bread
Basque Cuisine
Most popular meat dish
BBQ Brisket
Tri-tip
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Impossible Burger
Vegan Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Commis
  • Shakewell
  • Brown Sugar Kitchen
  • Wool Growers
  • Luigi's
  • 24th Street Cafe
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Oakland, you're plunged into a diverse food scene, from the iconic sourdough bread reminiscent of the San Francisco Bay Area to innovative vegan options like the Impossible Burger. The food truck culture is vibrant, with areas like Uptown featuring an array of options. In contrast, Bakersfield boasts a unique Basque dining experience unparalleled in most of California, with classics such as tri-tip leading the charge. Bakersfield's blend of traditional and modern eateries, such as Wool Growers and the 24th Street Cafe, highlights the city's agricultural roots while embracing contemporary culinary trends. Although Bakersfield may score slightly lower in terms of vegan options, the local farmer's markets offer plenty of fresh, local produce for those inclined to cook at home.

Oakland vs. Bakersfield Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in making a new city feel like home. This chart offers a culinary bridge for those moving, highlighting comparable dining experiences from Oakland to Bakersfield . Whether you're seeking haute cuisine or the comfort of familiar flavors, this guide aims to ease your transition by mapping out where you can find your next favorite meal.

OaklandBakersfieldWhat You'll Love
CommisCafe MedHigh-end dining with a focus on exquisite presentation
Shan Dong RestaurantGreat CastleAuthentic Chinese cuisine and handmade noodles
Burma SuperstarThai HouseUnique flavors and dishes similar to Burmese cuisine
HomeroomWiki’s Wine Dive & GrillCasual eatery with a comfort food twist
Everett & Jones BBQWool GrowersHomestyle meals emphasizing hearty flavors
Mama's Royal Cafe24th Street CafeClassic diner with a homey atmosphere
Donut SavantSmith’s BakeriesKnown for their delicious, fresh-baked donuts
PizzaioloCubbies Chicago Style PizzaA taste of Italy with Chicago flair
The Fat LadyUricchio's TrattoriaItalian cuisine with a cozy, vintage charm
Cholita LindaNuestro Mexico RestaurantFlavors of Latin America with a focus on authenticity

Finding an equivalent dining experience in a new city can be both an adventure and a comfort. For example, foodies moving from Oakland will be thrilled to discover that Cafe Med in Bakersfield captures the same high-end dining atmosphere as Commis, complete with meticulously prepared dishes that are a feast for the senses. Similarly, fans of Shan Dong’s authentic Chinese cuisine will find a new favorite in Great Castle, where the tradition of handmade noodles and authentically prepared dishes continues. Meanwhile, Cubbies Chicago Style Pizza offers a taste of Italy reminiscent of Pizzaiolo's famed pies, making the transition not just about finding a meal, but rediscovering the flavors and experiences that make a place feel like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Oakland vs. Bakersfield Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is crucial when planning a move, so understanding how Oakland and Bakersfield compare on this front is vital. These cities offer different lifestyles, and their housing markets reflect that. This comparison will help you decide what's best for you.

Oakland
Bakersfield
Typical Architecture Style
Victorian, Modern
Ranch, Craftsman
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to Bay Area, Public Transit, Views
Spacious Lots, Quiet Neighborhoods, Accessibility

Oakland and Bakersfield offer distinct living experiences, evidenced by the differences in their real estate markets. Oakland's higher median home price and rent reflect its proximity to San Francisco and the greater Bay Area, drawing those who prefer an urban lifestyle and don't mind paying a premium for access to amenities and views. In contrast, Bakersfield's more affordable housing and spacious lots cater to those seeking a quieter, more spread-out community. The popular items listed in real estate offerings for each city highlight these differences well: Oakland listings emphasize closeness to urban perks and public transit, whereas Bakersfield focuses on the appeal of roomier homes and serene surroundings.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Bakersfield, CA

1. Seven Oaks : You'll love the spacious parks and numerous walking trails perfect for taking your pet on a stroll.

2. Laurelglen : This neighborhood offers a welcoming atmosphere with plenty of pet-friendly areas and a large community park.

3. Stockdale Estates : You and your pet will enjoy the many open spaces and parks equipped with dog-friendly amenities.

Oakland vs. Bakersfield Weather Considerations

When relocating, it's crucial to understand how the weather will compare in your new city. This guide offers a comprehensive comparison between Oakland and Bakersfield, helping you adjust to the climate changes more smoothly.

Oakland
Bakersfield
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes
Earthquakes, Air Quality
Air Quality
Moderate
Poor
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

75°F / 56°F
98°F / 69°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

58°F / 44°F
55°F / 39°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

23.5"
6.5"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0"
0"


Moving from Oakland to Bakersfield, you'll notice a significant shift in climate. Bakersfield experiences a hotter summer with temperatures often reaching the high 90s, compared to Oakland's mild summer climate. The winter temperatures are somewhat similar, though Bakersfield tends to have fewer rainy days and lower overall humidity, making the air feel drier. Given Bakersfield's higher average UV index, you may need to be more diligent about sun protection. Despite more days of sunshine, Bakersfield has poorer air quality and specific challenges with seasonal allergies, particularly from grasses and dust.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Bakersfield

When considering a move from one city to another, it’s crucial to understand how your finances will be affected. This comparison delves into key economic factors between Oakland and Bakersfield. By examining aspects such as household income, cost of living, and taxation, you will gain insight into how your financial landscape may transform.

Oakland
Bakersfield
Avg. Household Income
$82,236
$66,666
Cost of Living Index
139.1
103.4
State Income Tax
9.3
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.79
0.81
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
7.25
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Healthcare, Education
Agriculture, Oil, Manufacturing
Affluence
Moderately affluent
Less affluent
Poverty
Moderate
Higher
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

Moving from Oakland to Bakersfield, you'll likely notice a substantial difference in the cost of living, with Bakersfield being significantly more affordable. This is reflected in both the general Cost of Living Index and specific taxes like sales tax. However, the average household income in Bakersfield is notably lower, which is something to consider in relation to the lower living costs. Both cities have their unique economic characteristics, influenced heavily by their leading industries—tech and healthcare in Oakland versus agriculture and oil in Bakersfield. Understanding these dynamics can help you prepare financially for your move.

Oakland vs. Bakersfield Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Oakland, CA to Bakersfield, CA, it's valuable to quickly grasp the comparison of the politics between Oakland & Bakersfield and the religious makeup of your potential new home. Here's a concise guide to provide a snapshot of the political and religious landscape of both cities.

Oakland
Bakersfield
Political Make-up
Liberal
Conservative
Local Politics
Democratic dominance
Republican lean
Religion
Diverse, with significant non-religious population
Higher religious affiliation, predominantly Christian

Moving from Oakland to Bakersfield, you'll transition from a city known for its liberal standpoint and Democratic leadership to one with a conservative tilt and Republican leanings. Oakland's political landscape is vibrant and diverse, mirroring its population's broad spectrum of beliefs and orientations. In contrast, Bakersfield’s political and religious environments reflect a more traditional and conservative ethos, with a stronger prevalence of Christian faith communities. Understanding these contrasts can help you anticipate the social and cultural shifts you might experience in your new location.

Oakland vs. Bakersfield Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Oakland, CA to Bakersfield, CA and curious about how traffic and transportation options compare? This guide provides a succinct overview to better understand the daily commute and traffic differences between these two cities.

Oakland
Bakersfield
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34.5
22.0
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
3 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes, more feasible
No, less feasible

In Oakland, your daily commute leans on the higher side, averaging just over half an hour. The city ranks high in terms of traffic congestion, which is reflective of its bustling nature. However, it compensates with excellent public transportation facilities such as the BART and buses, making it easier for residents to get around without a car. Contrastingly, Bakersfield offers a shorter commute time and less traffic congestion, making it an appealing factor for many. Despite this, the city's public transportation scores lower, indicating a higher dependence on personal vehicles for daily commuting. Understanding these nuances can help you adjust your transportation plans and expectations upon moving.

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