Best Bakersfield to Salem Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Bakersfield to Salem and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 812 mile move from California to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 15 Bakersfield to Salem 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 Northwest Grace Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Bakersfield compared to Salem. 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.

Best Bakersfield to Salem Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Bakersfield to Salem Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Northwest Grace Moving9.299.28Authorized For HHGContact
2All Service Moving9.278.91Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Excel Relocation Systems8.188.5Authorized For HHGContact
4Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.8.128.45Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Meathead Movers7.225.82Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Bakersfield to Salem

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 812 miles from Bakersfield, CA to Salem, OR will cost on average $2,472 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Bakersfield to Salem move is roughly $5,932. 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$1,663300 ft³5.54
1 Bedroom$2,472450 ft³5.49
2 Bedrooms$4,082750 ft³5.44
3 Bedrooms$5,9321100 ft³5.39
4 Bedrooms$8,5481600 ft³5.34
5+ Bedrooms$9,5271800 ft³5.29
*Please note: These California to Oregon moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Oregon. 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 OR mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salem to Bakersfield guide.

Compare the 5 Best Bakersfield to Salem Movers

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

Northwest Grace Moving Logo

Northwest Grace Moving

Exceptional9.29/10
based on 605+ data points

19764 Cypresswood St

Oregon City, OR, 97045

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Senior Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1999959 / 755213

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
All Service Moving Logo

All Service Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 9,065+ data points

66 SE Morrison St

Portland, OR, 97214

About All Service Moving

Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1863079 / 722865

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans80
Registered Drivers113
Total Annual Miles Moved1,186,786 (2022)
View Full Review
2
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
3
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
4
Meathead Movers Logo

Meathead Movers

7.22/10
based on 708+ data points

2905 Unicorn Rd suite a

Bakersfield, CA, 93308

About Meathead Movers

Meathead Movers was founded by two high school brothers in 1997, and now handles 18,000 moves per year! From Eureka down...

Services

  • Full Service Local Moving
  • On-Site Labor Moves Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/2/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

921143 / 398077

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans53
Registered Drivers87
Total Annual Miles Moved1,188,444 (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.

Bakersfield vs. Salem Neighborhood Comparison

When moving to a new city, it’s essential to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide is designed to compare Bakersfield, CA & Salem, OR local neighborhoods to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by using what you know. We’ll match top neighborhoods from Bakersfield with their Salem counterparts, aiming to make your transition as smooth as possible.

BakersfieldSalemHow They're Similar
Seven OaksIlliahe HillsUpscale, golf-centered community
RosedaleWest SalemFamily-friendly, suburban vibe
Haggin OaksBroadwayHistoric homes, community-oriented
Stockdale EstatesSunnyslopeLarge lots, mature landscaping
The OaksFairmount ParkQuiet, near parks and schools
Oleander/SunsetGrantDiverse, vibrant, with unique charm
LaurelglenMorningsideEstablished, with a sense of community
Tevis RanchFaye WrightFamily-oriented, with access to amenities
Stockdale Country ClubSalem Golf Club areaPrestigious, private community feeling
PanamaSouth GatewayCommercially active, easily accessible

In the bustling neighborhood of Haggin Oaks in Bakersfield, which is known for its historic homes and community-focused atmosphere, you'll find a similar vibe in Salem's Broadway area. Broadway is well-regarded for its historic charm and strong sense of community, offering residents a mix of residential comfort and local conveniences. If you appreciate the lush, wide-open spaces and golf-centric lifestyle of Seven Oaks, you'll be drawn to Illiahe Hills in Salem. It’s not just about upscale living; both neighborhoods offer access to premier golf courses, making them a golfer’s paradise. On the more family-oriented side, Rosedale's suburban feel closely matches that of West Salem, where the emphasis on community and family-friendly amenities make it an ideal place for settling down. In these selected neighborhoods, you can expect a variety of parks, restaurants, and sights, catering to a spectrum of interests and lifestyles, ensuring your new city feels like home.

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Things to Do in Salem

  • Stroll through the colorful Bush's Pasture Park
  • Discover gothic horrors at Witch's Castle
  • Visit the Willamette National Forest
  • Book a ticket to an event at El Sinai Center
  • Explore craft brews at Gilgamesh Brewing
  • Enjoy a show at Elsinore Theatre
  • Join a Salem Saturday Market

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Bakersfield to Salem

Moving can be a complex decision filled with various factors to consider. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Bakersfield, CA to Salem, OR . Through comparing both cities, we hope to uncover the advantages and drawbacks that await you.

CONs
PROs
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Higher summer heat
  • Air quality issues
  • Less greenery
  • Lower walkability
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Milder summer weather
  • Better air quality
  • More parks and forests
  • High walkability
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Higher cost of living
  • Smaller city feel
  • Lesser cuisine diversity
  • Quieter nightlife
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Cost of living
  • Bigger city feel
  • More diverse cuisine
  • Varied nightlife

When considering the move from Bakersfield to Salem, you'll find more than just a change in geography. Salem boasts an array of parks like Minto-Brown Island Park, enhancing your connection with nature and offering pathways for both leisurely walks and more vigorous activities. The air in Salem is noticeably clearer, attributing to its positioning away from dense industrial areas found in Bakersfield. Additionally, the culinary scene in Salem, while perhaps less diverse, is noted for its focus on organic and locally-sourced ingredients, offering a unique dining experience at places like Word of Mouth Bistro. Though Salem might offer a quieter nightlife than Bakersfield, the quality of life, including the emphasis on community and the outdoors, presents a compelling reason for the move.

Bakersfield vs. Salem Food Guide

Understanding the flavors of a city is essential in grasping its culture. As you prepare for your move, we'll embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between Bakersfield & Salem, to give you a taste of what each city has to offer. This insight will help you feel right at home in your new surroundings.

BakersfieldSalem
Most iconic local food itemBasque foodMarionberry pie
Most popular meat dishTri-tipPinot Noir braised beef
Most popular street food itemTacosFood truck burgers
Most popular vegan foodAvocado toastTempeh stir-fry
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Wool Growers
  • Luigi's
  • Noriega's
  • Word of Mouth Bistro
  • Bentley's Grill
  • Rafn's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Bakersfield, the local cuisine is deeply influenced by its Basque heritage, offering unique dishes like no other in California. Places like Wool Growers and Luigi's allow newcomers to dive deep into this rich culinary tradition. Over in Salem, the food scene shifts towards the fresh and local, best represented by the iconic Marionberry pie. Vegan and health-conscious eaters will find Salem especially appealing, with restaurants like Rafn's focusing on locally-sourced, organic ingredients. Both cities boast a growing food truck scene, but Salem's slightly higher rating in this area suggests a more vibrant street food culture waiting to be explored.

Bakersfield vs. Salem Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This guide compares top Bakersfield eateries with their Salem counterparts to help you find your next favorite meal. Comparing restaurants from Bakersfield to Salem will bridge your culinary journey, making the move feel like a gastronomic adventure rather than a daunting task.

BakersfieldSalemWhat You'll Love
24th Street CafeWord of Mouth BistroKnown for hearty breakfasts and a homely vibe similar to 24th Street Cafe.
Luigi's RestaurantGamberetti's Italian RestaurantOffers a comparable family-friendly Italian dining experience.
Wool GrowersLa Margarita Co.Offers traditional dishes with a welcoming atmosphere akin to Wool Growers.
Pyrenees CafeTaproot Lounge & CafeSimilar laid-back vibe with comfort food that echoes Pyrenees Cafe's casual dining.
Lengthwise Brewing CompanySantiam Brewing Co.Featuring a selection of crafted beers that parallels the experience at Lengthwise.
Hungry Hunter SteakhouseRudy's SteakhouseKnown for quality steaks and a robust dining experience like Hungry Hunter.
Dewar's Candy ShopWm. ChocolateWhile not a direct match, offers high-quality chocolate products reminiscing of Dewar's unique offerings.
Caesar's DeliGerry Frank's KonditoreiOffers sandwiches and sweets that give a nod to the comfort of Caesar's Deli.
Sequoia Sandwich CompanyWord Of Mouth Neighborhood BistroAnother mention for its sandwiches that compete with Sequoia's quality.
Uricchio's TrattoriaDaVinci RistoranteProvides an upscale Italian dining experience that matches Uricchio's in quality and atmosphere.

Upon moving from Bakersfield to Salem, you won't miss the varied dining scene you're used to. Salem's Taproot Lounge & Cafe resonates with the casual, yet heartily satisfying meals reminiscent of Pyrenees Cafe's offerings, ensuring your comfort food cravings are well-catered to. Craving a steak dinner? Rudy's Steakhouse in Salem prides itself on its quality cuts and refined dining experience, echoing the cherished memories of Bakersfield's Hungry Hunter Steakhouse. For those special mornings, Word of Mouth Bistro is a perfect choice, offering a breakfast and brunch menu that rivals the homely and satisfying 24th Street Cafe experience. Moving to Salem, you'll find that each meal tells a story of its own, connecting you to your new home through flavors familiar and comforting.

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Ready to start your move?

Bakersfield vs. Salem Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your moving experience, knowing how the two cities compare in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle between Bakersfield, CA and Salem, OR can streamline your transition. Here are some key comparisons to consider.

ComparisonBakersfieldSalem
Typical Architecture StyleRanch StyleVictorian and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, poolsHistorical features, green spaces

When comparing Bakersfield and Salem in terms of housing, it's evident that Salem is slightly more expensive, both in terms of median home prices and monthly rent. However, this cost comes with benefits like better walkability and a richer urban lifestyle, scoring 5 and 7 out of 10 respectively. Salem's appeal is further enhanced by its prevalent Victorian and Craftsman architecture, offering charming historical features that are often highlighted in real estate listings. On the other hand, Bakersfield's real estate market is characterized by Ranch style homes, which typically come with large yards and pools, appealing to those looking for more private outdoor space. The decision between the two cities might come down to what you prioritize: Salem’s vibrant urban life and historical charm or Bakersfield’s spacious and private living.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salem, OR

1. West Salem: This area is highly pet-friendly due to its numerous walking trails such as Wallace Marine Park and pet services like Taylor Street OB/GYN Veterinary Clinic.

2. South Salem: Your pet will enjoy South Salem's selection of pet-friendly restaurants and services, including All-In-One Pet Grooming and Garry's Pub which has a pet-friendly patio.

3. Morningside: Known for its large number of dog-friendly parks such as Morningside City Park, this neighborhood also hosts a favorite pet supply store, Petco.

Bakersfield vs. Salem Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another involves various adjustments, but understanding how the weather compares between Bakersfield, CA, and Salem, OR, is crucial. Knowing the climatic differences will help you prepare for your new environment effectively.

Summer icon
98°F / 66°F

Bakersfield, CA

82°F / 53°F

Salem, OR

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
55°F / 38°F

Bakersfield, CA

47°F / 36°F

Salem, OR

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
6.5

Bakersfield, CA

39.2

Salem, OR

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Bakersfield, CA

3

Salem, OR

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBakersfieldSalem
Air QualityPoorModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresEarthquakes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In transitioning from Bakersfield to Salem, you'll notice significant differences in weather patterns. Salem experiences much milder summers with a considerable drop in both high and low temperatures compared to Bakersfield's intense heat. Additionally, Salem's higher humidity and increased annual rainfall reflect its more temperate, ocean-influenced climate, contrasting with Bakersfield's drier conditions. Prepare for fewer sunny days in Salem, but also for cleaner air, which may be a relief if you're sensitive to air quality. Understanding these changes will help you adapt more smoothly to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning your move from Bakersfield, CA to Salem, OR, grasping the nuances in the financial landscape and cost of living is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on the economic differences between Bakersfield and Salem, helping you align your budget and expectations accordingly.

ComparisonBakersfieldSalem
Avg. Household Income$66,666$63,927
Cost of Living Index103.4110.55
State Income Tax9.39.9
Avg. Property Tax0.811.04
Avg. Sales Tax7.250
Top 3 IndustriesOil & Gas, Agriculture, ManufacturingGovernment, Agriculture, Education
AffluenceModerateVaried
PovertyNoticeableSizable
HomelessnessConcerningChallenging

While Bakersfield boasts a moderately higher average household income compared to Salem, the cost of living and state income tax rates in Salem are slightly higher, suggesting your dollar might stretch differently. However, Salem's lack of sales tax can offer some financial relief, particularly in everyday purchases. The primary industries vary greatly between these two cities, indicating potential shifts in job opportunities and economic focus. Both cities face their own challenges with poverty and homelessness, pointing to broader socio-economic factors at play. Understanding these dynamics can aid in your financial planning and adjustment to your new home in Salem.

Bakersfield vs. Salem Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Bakersfield, CA to Salem, OR, understanding the local demographics can provide valuable insights. This comparison of the politics between Bakersfield & Salem and their religious makeup offers a quick glimpse into the dynamics of your potential new home.

BakersfieldSalem
Political Make-upConservative-leaningLiberal-leaning
Local PoliticsRepublican dominance in local electionsDemocratic dominance in local elections
ReligionHigher evangelical Christian presenceMore religious diversity, including Unitarian Universalist and other faiths

In Bakersfield, you'll find a community with a conservative tilt, where Republican candidates often lead in local politics. This is complemented by a significant evangelical Christian presence which shapes the city's cultural and social scene. In contrast, Salem leans more liberal, with Democratic candidates typically dominating local elections. Salem's religious landscape is marked by diversity, offering a wide range of faith communities, including Unitarian Universalists, which reflects the city's inclusive atmosphere. Moving from Bakersfield to Salem, you'll transition into a political and religious environment that may offer new perspectives and opportunities for engagement.

Bakersfield vs. Salem Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Before deciding to move from Bakersfield, CA to Salem, OR, understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between the two cities will prove invaluable in preparing for your daily commute. This comparison aims to give you a better grasp of what to expect on the roads and how public transit measures up in each location.

ComparisonBakersfieldSalem
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2523
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?DifficultModerately Easy

When moving from Bakersfield to Salem, you'll likely notice a slight improvement in average commute times, thanks in part to lesser traffic congestion in Salem. The availability and reliance on public transit in Salem are somewhat higher, with services like the Cherriots bus line providing coverage across the city, making it moderately easier to get by without a car compared to Bakersfield. In Bakersfield, the public transit options are more limited, and the city's infrastructure is designed with car travel in mind, making it considerably harder to navigate without personal transportation.

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