Best Tucson to Bakersfield Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Tucson to Bakersfield and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 598 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 Tucson to Bakersfield moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Moving Buddies Tucson AZ), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tucson 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 Tucson to Bakersfield Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Moving Buddies Tucson AZ9.069.23Authorized For HHGContact
2Get Your Move On, LLC9.038.37Authorized For HHGContact
3Abba & Sons Moving LLC8.909.2Authorized For HHGContact
4Excel Relocation Systems8.188.5Authorized For HHGContact
5Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.8.128.45Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Tucson to Bakersfield

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 598 miles from Tucson, AZ to Bakersfield, CA will cost on average $2,290 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tucson to Bakersfield move is roughly $5,487. 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$1,542300 ft³5.14
1 Bedroom$2,290450 ft³5.09
2 Bedrooms$3,779750 ft³5.04
3 Bedrooms$5,4871100 ft³4.99
4 Bedrooms$7,9011600 ft³4.94
5+ Bedrooms$8,7991800 ft³4.89
*Please note: These Arizona to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Arizona & 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 AZ to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Bakersfield to Tucson guide.

Compare the 5 Best Tucson to Bakersfield Movers

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

Moving Buddies Tucson AZ Logo

Moving Buddies Tucson AZ

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 1,762+ data points

5502 E 25th St

Tucson, AZ, 85711

About Moving Buddies Tucson AZ

Since 2011, this family-owned moving company has been building a reputation in Tucson, AZ, for excellence, professionalism, and integrity. Moving Buddies...

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3531262 / 1542042

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Get Your Move On, LLC Logo

Get Your Move On, LLC

Exceptional9.03/10
based on 1,564+ data points

1430 E Hadley St # 110

Phoenix, AZ, 85034

About Get Your Move On, LLC

This family-owned and operated moving company has been helping Phoenix, AZ residents move since 2005. Get Your Move On was founded...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1885055 / 990813

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers19
Total Annual Miles Moved350,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Abba & Sons Moving LLC Logo

Abba & Sons Moving LLC

Superb8.90/10
based on 1,474+ data points

237 W Fort Lowell Rd

Tucson, AZ, 85705

About Abba & Sons Moving LLC

Based in Tucson, Abba and Sons Moving is a family-owned company that serves all of Southern Arizona with residential and commercial...

Services

  • Home/Apartment Moving Services
  • Moving and Packing Services
  • Specializing in homes, offices, apartments

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1921793 / 32280

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Excel Relocation Systems Logo

Excel Relocation Systems

Very Good8.18/10
based on 660+ data points

3101 Gilmore Ave

Bakersfield, CA, 93308

About Excel Relocation Systems

Excel Relocation Systems is a Bakersfield commercial moving company that partners with Smooth Move USA. Excel Relocation Systems specializes in business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance
  • Commercial Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2911596 / 981013

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Broker

Registered Trucks/Vans22
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved262,226 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc. Logo

Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.

Very Good8.12/10
based on 1,379+ data points

3501 N Sillect Ave A

Bakersfield, CA, 93308

About Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.

Hansen's Moving & Storage is one of the largest moving and storage companies in Kern County and has been serving the...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2728836 / 88698

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved12,000 (2023)
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.

Tucson vs. Bakersfield Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of neighborhoods between Tucson, AZ & Bakersfield, CA based on their vibes, amenities, and overall feel. This guide will help you familiarize yourself with your new city by using what you know and love about your current city as a baseline.

TucsonBakersfieldHow They're Similar
Sam HughesWestchesterHistoric charm, tree-lined streets
El PresidioOld StockdaleExclusive, golf course nearby
Sabino CanyonSeven OaksUpscale, outdoor recreation
Rita RanchRosedaleFamily-friendly, sprawling parks
Armory ParkDowntown BakersfieldVibrant, historic homes
Catalina FoothillsStockdale EstatesAffluent, scenic views
Iron HorseEast HillsUrban vibe, close to amenities
Reid ParkRiver OaksRecreational parks, community events
University of Arizona AreaBakersfield College AreaEducational hub, youthful ambiance
Barrio HistoricoLa Cresta/Alta VistaCultural landmarks, unique architecture

If you're moving from the artsy and historic vibes of Armory Park in Tucson, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Downtown Bakersfield, where historic homes stand alongside modern establishments, offering a vibrant and eclectic mix. Outdoor enthusiasts relocating from Sabino Canyon’s breathtaking trails and natural scenery will appreciate Seven Oaks in Bakersfield, which boasts upscale living and easy access to outdoor recreation, mirroring the upscale yet adventurous spirit of their Tucson counterpart. For those used to the university buzz and youthful energy of the University of Arizona Area, the Bakersfield College Area offers a lively atmosphere with an educational spirit, hosting community events and spaces where minds meet and cultures come alive.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Tucson to Bakersfield

Moving from one city to another is a big decision. With this guide, we invite you to explore both the upsides and the challenges. By comparing Tucson, AZ's cons with Bakersfield, CA's pros , as well as Tucson, AZ's pros against Bakersfield, CA's cons , we aim to give you an honest reflection of what to expect. By considering both sides, you can make an informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
Tucson, AZ iconTucson, AZ
  • Hotter summers
  • Less greenery
  • Fewer job opportunities
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Milder climate
  • More agriculture
  • More industry jobs
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Higher housing costs
  • Less art exposure
Tucson, AZ iconTucson, AZ
  • Rich culture
  • Lower cost of living
  • Vibrant art scene

Tucson, known for its vibrant arts scene, is home to numerous local galleries and the annual Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, attracting visitors globally. In contrast, Bakersfield's cultural footprint is smaller but growing, with venues like the Bakersfield Museum of Art offering a glimpse into the local talent. Despite a potential increase in housing costs upon moving to Bakersfield, you'll find the city's agricultural richness captivating, especially at local farmers markets such as Brundage Lane Farmers Market. Meanwhile, job seekers might find solace in Bakersfield's booming oil and agricultural industries not as prevalent in Tucson. Not to be understated, Bakersfield's heart, found in its community's spirit, thrives in both public spaces like Hart Park and its passionate local food scene, featuring establishments like Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen, a local favorite.

Tucson vs. Bakersfield Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Tucson & Bakersfield illuminates how food reflects local culture and livability. Understanding the culinary scene can help you adjust more smoothly to your new city.

TucsonBakersfield
Most iconic local food itemSonoran Hot DogTri-tip
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaBBQ Tri-tip
Most popular street food itemTacosStreet Tacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan TamalesVegan Burgers
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • El Charro Café
  • Casa Vicente
  • The Coronet
  • Wool Growers Restaurant
  • Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen
  • 24th Street Cafe
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Exploring local cuisine is a delicious way to connect with your new home. In Tucson, the legendary Sonoran Hot Dog, a bacon-wrapped hot dog served in a slightly sweet bun and topped with beans, onions, mustard, and mayonnaise, can be found at countless street corners and food trucks. Hot spots like El Charro Café offer a deep dive into authentic Mexican flavors. Moving to Bakersfield introduces you to a distinct barbecue culture, with tri-tip reigning as the undisputed king of meats. The historic Wool Growers Restaurant and beloved 24th Street Cafe are community staples, showcasing the local love affair with hearty comfort food and innovative vegan options, signaling Bakersfield's growing culinary diversity.

Tucson vs. Bakersfield Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison is designed to make the transition smoother by comparing top restaurants in Tucson to their equivalents in Bakersfield, helping you find your new go-to spots for exceptional dining experiences.

TucsonBakersfieldWhat You'll Love
El Charro CaféNoriega'sTraditional Basque dining, mirroring El Charro's authenticity and historic vibe
Poca Cosa CaféLa Costa MariscosFresh seafood dishes, capturing Poca Cosa's innovative and vibrant flavors
PencaCamino Real Kitchen & TequilaModern Mexican cuisine, offering a similar urban ambiance and creative dishes
Senae Thai BistroBlue ElephantAuthentic Thai food, providing a comparable upscale dining experience
Reilly Craft Pizza & DrinkCubbies Chicago Style PizzaA blend of innovative and classic pizza options, akin to Reilly's approach
The Little OneMoo CreameryUnique and flavorful dishes in a casual, cozy setting, reminiscent of The Little One’s charm
Boca Tacos y TequilaTacos La Villa Mexican GrillSpecializing in tacos with a wide variety of salsas, echoing Boca's reputation
FeastCafé SmittenLocal and seasonal menu items in a chic, contemporary space, paralleling Feast’s eclectic menu
Vivace RestaurantUricchio's TrattoriaFine Italian dining with a focus on quality and tradition, similar to Vivace's elegance
Prep & PastrySmith's BakeriesKnown for breakfast and brunch, offering a homey vibe like Prep & Pastry with high quality baked goods

Discovering a new favorite dining spot can be an exciting adventure that adds richness to your new city life. For example, if you're a fan of the contemporary Mexican cuisine and urban vibe of Tucson's Penca, you'll likely enjoy the innovative dishes and similar atmosphere at Camino Real Kitchen & Tequila in Bakersfield. Similarly, lovers of the unique and flavorful offerings of The Little One will find a kindred spirit in Moo Creamery, where the emphasis on quality ingredients and a cozy setting creates a comparable dining experience. This exploration of local flavors not only helps you settle in but also enables you to embrace and enjoy the culinary diversity that Bakersfield has to offer, just as you did in Tucson.

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Tucson vs. Bakersfield Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences the decision-making process when relocating. Understanding how Tucson and Bakersfield compare in terms of housing is crucial. This comparison will cover cost, architecture, walkability, and more to give you a thorough perspective.

ComparisonTucsonBakersfield
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish MissionRanch Style
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingMountain views, outdoor spacesFamily-friendly, spacious backyards

When comparing Tucson and Bakersfield, it's evident that your lifestyle preferences will heavily impact your choice. Tucson, renowned for its sprawling Spanish Mission-style homes, offers a higher walkability and bikeability score promoting a more active lifestyle. Meanwhile, Bakersfield is characterized by its Ranch Style homes and places greater emphasis on family-friendly amenities and spacious backyards, appealing to those looking for a more suburban feel. While Tucson offers stunning mountain views, Bakersfield's real estate often highlights spacious backyards, catering to families seeking room for outdoor activities. Regardless of your choice, both cities offer unique living experiences shaped by their distinctive cultural and geographical landscapes.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Bakersfield, CA

1. Seven Oaks: Known for its spacious parks and walking trails, it's a paradise where your pets can play and socialize freely.

2. Riverlakes: Offers pet-friendly community events and has several dog parks nearby, making it ideal for pet owners.

3. Olive Drive Area: This neighborhood boasts quiet streets and access to the Kern River Parkway, perfect for long walks or runs with your furry friends.

Tucson vs. Bakersfield Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another often involves adjusting to a new climate. It's crucial to understand how the weather in Bakersfield will compare with what you're used to in Tucson. This comparison will ensure you're well-prepared for your relocation.

Summer icon
100°F / 74°F

Tucson, AZ

95°F / 68°F

Bakersfield, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
65°F / 39°F

Tucson, AZ

55°F / 38°F

Bakersfield, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
12

Tucson, AZ

6.5

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0.3

Tucson, AZ

0

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonTucsonBakersfield
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersWildfires / Flash FloodsEarthquakes / Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When examining the weather details of Tucson and Bakersfield, a few notable distinctions arise. Tucson proudly boasts more days of sunshine annually, contributing to its reputation as a sun-lover's paradise. Bakersfield, however, sees a higher average humidity level, which can make temperatures feel warmer than they actually are. Considering natural disasters, Tucson's susceptibility to wildfires and flash floods contrasts with Bakersfield's risks of earthquakes and wildfires. Additionally, while both cities grapple with seasonal allergies, the predominant allergens differ, highlighting the importance of preparing accordingly if you have allergies.

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to get a grasp on how your finances might shift as a result. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences and similarities in money and finance between Tucson, AZ and Bakersfield, CA, helping you prepare for your relocation.

ComparisonTucsonBakersfield
Avg. Household Income$50,306$66,666
Cost of Living Index96.5103.4
State Income Tax4.59.3
Avg. Property Tax0.720.81
Avg. Sales Tax8.78.25
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, AerospaceAgriculture, Oil, Manufacturing
Affluencemoderatemoderate to high
Povertysignificantmoderate
Homelessnessnotableconcerning

While the average household income in Bakersfield is slightly higher than Tucson’s, it's crucial to note that the cost of living and state income tax are also higher in Bakersfield. These factors mean that while you might earn more, a greater portion of your income will potentially go towards living expenses and taxes. Additionally, the different leading industries between the cities highlight possible career opportunities or changes you may encounter. Understanding these financial elements is key in making a successful transition.

Tucson vs. Bakersfield Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Tucson, AZ to Bakersfield, CA requires understanding key differences between these cities. This guide offers a comparison of the politics between Tucson & Bakersfield to provide insights on the political and religious makeup of these cities, helping you gauge the social atmosphere you're stepping into.

TucsonBakersfield
Political Make-upLiberalConservative
Local PoliticsDemocratic MajorityRepublican Majority
ReligionLess Religious DiversityMore Religious Diversity

When you're moving from Tucson to Bakersfield, you'll notice a shift from a city with a liberal-leaning population to one with a conservative bent. This is evident in not just the political makeup but also in local politics where Tucson generally sees Democratic leadership while Bakersfield has a Republican majority. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, though Bakersfield offers more diversity in this aspect. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for the social and cultural environment you're moving into.

Tucson vs. Bakersfield Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Tucson, AZ to Bakersfield, CA brings a shift in your daily commute and understanding the differences between driving/transiting in Tucson & Bakersfield is crucial for a smoother transition. This comparison aims to give you a better grasp of what to expect regarding traffic and transportation options in both cities.

ComparisonTucsonBakersfield
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2522
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?With difficultyChallenging

In Tucson, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Bakersfield, but traffic congestion is less intense. Tucson's higher public transit score reflects the presence of services like the Sun Tran bus system and the Sun Link streetcar, indicating a somewhat better infrastructure for those depending on public transportation. However, both cities pose challenges to residents attempting to navigate daily life without a personal vehicle, suggesting a reliance on driving that's typical for cities of their sizes. Knowing this, planning your travel routes and considering proximity to key services will be crucial in both locations.

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