Best Washington DC to Bakersfield Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Washington DC to Bakersfield and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,761 mile move from DC to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Washington DC 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 Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC 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 Washington DC to Bakersfield Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHGContact
2Mic's Moving9.599.56Authorized For HHGContact
3Ap Pro Moving Llc9.439.39ActiveContact
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 Washington DC to Bakersfield

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,761 miles from Washington DC, DC to Bakersfield, CA will cost on average $4,129 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Bakersfield move is roughly $9,983. 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$2,768300 ft³9.23
1 Bedroom$4,129450 ft³9.18
2 Bedrooms$6,844750 ft³9.13
3 Bedrooms$9,9831100 ft³9.08
4 Bedrooms$14,4411600 ft³9.03
5+ Bedrooms$16,1571800 ft³8.98
*Please note: These DC to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from DC & 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 DC to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Bakersfield to Washington DC guide.

Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Bakersfield Movers

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

Bookstore Movers Logo

Bookstore Movers

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,631+ data points

5200 46th Ave

Hyattsville, MD, 20781

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2005212 / 707471

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved153,245 (2019)
View Full Review
1
Mic's Moving Logo

Mic's Moving

Exceptional9.59/10
based on 4,108+ data points

1250 9th st. nw

Washington DC, DC, 20011

About Mic's Moving

Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2474176 / 856657

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2019)
View Full Review
2
Ap Pro Moving Llc Logo

Ap Pro Moving Llc

Exceptional9.43/10
based on 361+ data points

5021 Seminary Rd # 822

Alexandria, VA, 22311

About Ap Pro Moving Llc

Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/6/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3338902 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved4,000 (2021)
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.

Washington DC vs. Bakersfield Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we're offering a detailed comparison of local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Bakersfield, CA. By using your current neighborhood as a baseline, we'll help you find a similar community in your new city to call home.

Washington DCBakersfieldHow They're Similar
GeorgetownSeven OaksUpscale living, boutique shopping
Dupont CircleWestchesterCultural hub, historic vibe
Capitol HillLaurelglenCommunity-oriented, family-friendly
Adams MorganOleander SunsetDiverse, vibrant nightlife
Navy YardRiver OaksGrowing area, near water
Logan CircleStockdale EstatesHistoric homes, central location
Columbia HeightsRosedaleMulticultural, up-and-coming
ShawTehachapiArtistic community, live music scene
Woodley ParkBrimhall EstatesQuiet, family-oriented, green spaces
NoMaHaggin OaksModern living, business-friendly

When you're moving from the historic and culturally rich neighborhoods of Washington DC to Bakersfield, CA, finding a comparable neighborhood can greatly ease your transition. For example, if you’ve enjoyed the bustling boutique scene and high-end living of Georgetown, Seven Oaks in Bakersfield offers a similar upscale lifestyle with boutique shopping and refined dining options like The Mark and Cafe Med. Alternatively, for those who have loved the diverse and vibrant community of Adams Morgan, where nightlife and cultural events abound, Oleander Sunset in Bakersfield presents a lively atmosphere with a variety of ethnic restaurants and venues for live music, aligning with your social and cultural interests. Similarly, Columbia Heights’ multicultural vibe and community spirit find a parallel in Rosedale, making it an attractive option for those seeking a neighborhood with a sense of diversity and growth.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Bakersfield

Moving from one city to another presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to highlight the pros and cons of relocating from Washington DC, DC to Bakersfield, CA, giving you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this significant change. Understanding both sides will help you make a well-informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • High living costs
  • Dense traffic
  • Humid summers
  • Political focus
  • Less green space
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Lower living costs
  • More manageable traffic
  • Dry climate
  • Agricultural community
  • More parks/ open spaces
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Fewer landmarks
  • Limited public transit
  • Lesser political influence
  • More limited dining options
  • Fewer historical sites
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Cultural landmarks
  • Public transit options
  • Political hub
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Historical sites

While Washington DC boasts significant cultural landmarks like the Smithsonian Museums and historical sites such as the Lincoln Memorial, Bakersfield offers a different appeal. It is a city that thrives within an agricultural heartland, providing a close-knit community feel and a slower pace of life. The move from DC's humid summers to Bakersfield's dry climate can be a welcome change for those seeking a respite from the East Coast weather. Additionally, Bakersfield promotes outdoor activities with its numerous parks and green spaces, such as Hart Park, which contrasts with DC's densely built environment. While Bakersfield may not have the extensive public transit system or the plethora of dining options found in DC, its lower cost of living and more manageable traffic situation offer tangible benefits for a more laid-back lifestyle.

Washington DC vs. Bakersfield Food Guide

When deciding to move, the culinary scene of a new city can be just as crucial as its job market or climate. We're here to assist with a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Bakersfield to help you understand the food culture awaiting you in your new home.

Washington DCBakersfield
Most iconic local food itemHalf-smokeTri-tip
Most popular meat dishFried chickenTri-tip steak
Most popular street food itemFood trucks offeringsTacos
Most popular vegan foodVegetable curryVegetarian taco
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Old Ebbitt Grill
  • Le Diplomate
  • Wool Growers
  • Luigi's
  • 24th Street Cafe
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Moving from Washington DC to Bakersfield will introduce you to a distinct shift in culinary preferences. In Bakersfield, you might find yourself indulging in the local specialty, tri-tip, a cut of beef that is part of the Santa Maria barbecue tradition. This can be a fantastic change for meat lovers, especially considering the city's affection for barbecue and Mexican cuisine. Bakersfield's iconic restaurants, such as Wool Growers and Luigi's, offer a taste of the local and international flavors that define the city's food scene. Although Bakersfield scores lower in terms of food truck abundance and vegan offerings compared to DC, neighborhoods like Downtown Bakersfield are burgeoning culinary hotspots, offering diverse dining options that cater to various tastes and dietary needs.

Washington DC vs. Bakersfield Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in familiar flavors can make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison Washington DC to Bakersfield is crafted to guide you in discovering your next favorite eateries, using your current culinary loves as a reference point.

Washington DCBakersfieldWhat You'll Love
RasikaCurry HouseAuthentic Indian flavors with a modern twist
Le DiplomateCafe ParisClassic French bistro dining experience
ZaytinyaMythosDiverse Mediterranean menu, focusing on sharable plates
Ben's Chili BowlJake's Tex-Mex CafeBeloved local spot for chili and comfort Tex-Mex dishes
2AmysCubbies Chicago Style PizzaA focus on traditional, Neapolitan pizzas
Fiola MareSequoia'sFresh seafood and fine dining with a view
Little SerowThai HouseVibrant Thai flavors in a cozy, intimate setting
Blue Duck TavernThe MarkAmerican cuisine with a focus on seasonal, farm-to-table dishes
Bad SaintLemongrass Thai RestaurantRenowned for authentic Thai cuisine and bold flavors
Central Michel RichardBelvedere RoomElegant dining with innovative and classic American fare

When your taste buds are craving something exotic yet familiar, Bakersfield's Curry House serves as a culinary bridge back to Rasika with its modern take on classic Indian dishes. Similarly, Cafe Paris offers a slice of Le Diplomate's French charm and sophisticated atmosphere. For a local twist on Mediterranean flavors that Zaytinya fans might miss, Mythos provides an array of vibrant, sharable dishes to satisfy your cravings and bring people together. Through these culinary parallels, you'll not only find a piece of Washington DC in Bakersfield but also the beginning of new dining traditions in your California home.

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Washington DC vs. Bakersfield Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, considering the real estate market is crucial. Specifically, how does Washington DC's housing stack up against Bakersfield, CA? This comparison aims to highlight the nuances in cost, architecture, and lifestyle nuances between the two cities to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonWashington DCBakersfield
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian and Beaux-ArtsRanch and Spanish
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to monuments and governmental buildingsSpacious backyards and proximity to parks

From the table, the stark differences in median home prices and monthly rents between Washington DC and Bakersfield clearly stand out. This significant cost gap makes Bakersfield an attractive option for those seeking more affordable living options. The architectural styles also reflect the historical and cultural differences: while Washington DC boasts Victorian and Beaux-Arts reflecting its historical importance and grandeur, Bakersfield’s Ranch and Spanish styles pay homage to California’s rustic and Hispanic heritage. Furthermore, Washington DC's higher urban lifestyle score indicates a busier, more densely populated environment compared to Bakersfield's laid-back, spacious settings. This contrast in urban lifestyle is further accentuated by the walkability scores, suggesting that Washington DC might offer a more convenient lifestyle for those without a car.

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.

Washington DC vs. Bakersfield Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather differs between your current and future home is crucial. This comparison aims to prepare you for the transition from Washington DC to Bakersfield by highlighting key climatic differences. Knowing this can help you adjust better and plan for any necessary changes in your lifestyle or wardrobe.

Summer icon
87°F / 71°F

Washington DC, DC

98°F / 68°F

Bakersfield, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 29°F

Washington DC, DC

58°F / 38°F

Bakersfield, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40.8"

Washington DC, DC

6.5"

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
13.8"

Washington DC, DC

0"

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWashington DCBakersfield
Air QualityModeratePoor
Natural DisastersHurricanes, BlizzardsEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Washington DC to Bakersfield will expose you to a significantly drier climate with higher average temperatures, especially during the summer. Bakersfield enjoys more days of sunshine yearly, which can be a bonus if you prefer sunny days but also demands caution due to higher UV index levels, making sun protection vital. While Washington DC battles with humidity and occasional heavy snowfall, Bakersfield has its challenge with poor air quality and increased exposure to natural disasters like earthquakes and wildfires. Adjusting to these changes may require adapting your daily routine, wardrobe, and even considering air filtering systems for your new home.

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

When planning a move from one city to another, assessing the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to help you understand how the cost of living and economic conditions between Washington DC and Bakersfield will affect your finances. From average incomes to taxes and industry sectors, get a clear picture of what to expect in your new city.

ComparisonWashington DCBakersfield
Avg. Household Income$90,088$66,666
Cost of Living Index140.1103.4
State Income Tax8.9513.3 (max rate)
Avg. Property Tax0.560.77
Avg. Sales Tax67.25
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Professional & Technical Services, EducationOil & Gas, Agriculture, Manufacturing
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

Moving from Washington DC to Bakersfield, you will notice a stark difference in the average household income and cost of living. While the cost of living in DC is substantially higher, so is the average income, which can offset some of the financial burdens. Bakersfield presents a more moderate cost of living, which is complemented by its emerging oil, gas, and agricultural industries. However, it's also important to consider California's higher state income and sales taxes, which can affect your net income. Despite these challenges, both cities offer unique financial landscapes shaped by their leading industries and economic conditions.

Washington DC vs. Bakersfield Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Washington DC & Bakersfield offers you a concise overview, helping you understand the cultural landscape you're moving into at a glance.

Washington DCBakersfield
Political Make-upHeavily DemocraticLeans Republican
Local PoliticsProgressive PoliciesConservative Values
ReligionDiverse, with no single denomination dominatingPredominantly Christian, with a strong presence of Evangelical Churches Local Churches

Moving from Washington DC, known for its heavily Democratic lean and progressive policies, to Bakersfield, which tends more toward Republican preferences and conservative values, represents a significant cultural transition. The religious landscape also shifts, with Washington DC's diverse spiritual life contrasting with Bakersfield's strong Christian, particularly Evangelical, community. Understanding these differences can help you navigate local discussions and community involvement, making your relocation smoother and more informed.

Washington DC vs. Bakersfield Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving to a new city can be a monumental step, especially when it comes to navigating daily commutes. To help you transition smoothly, we've prepared a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Bakersfield. This guide aims to give you a clear understanding of what your daily commute and traffic experiences might be like in these cities.

ComparisonWashington DCBakersfield
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)34.522.3
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?YesNo

In Washington DC, you'll find an extensive public transportation system that includes the Metro, buses, and even bike-share options, making it feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. This is a stark contrast to Bakersfield, where the public transportation options are more limited, and the city's infrastructure leans heavily towards driving. Thus, while Washington DC residents might avoid the hassles of parking and traffic by opting for public transport, moving to Bakersfield would likely necessitate owning a car to ensure you can get around efficiently.

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