Best Tampa to Bakersfield Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Tampa to Bakersfield and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,619 mile move from Florida to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 17 Tampa 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 Let's Get Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tampa 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 Tampa to Bakersfield Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Let's Get Moving9.139.26Authorized For HHGContact
2Two Men and a Truck9.068.51Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Pride Moving8.499.11Authorized For PropertyContact
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 Tampa to Bakersfield

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,619 miles from Tampa, FL to Bakersfield, CA will cost on average $4,008 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tampa to Bakersfield move is roughly $9,688. 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$2,687300 ft³8.96
1 Bedroom$4,008450 ft³8.91
2 Bedrooms$6,643750 ft³8.86
3 Bedrooms$9,6881100 ft³8.81
4 Bedrooms$14,0121600 ft³8.76
5+ Bedrooms$15,6741800 ft³8.71
*Please note: These Florida to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Florida & 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 FL to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Bakersfield to Tampa guide.

Compare the 5 Best Tampa to Bakersfield Movers

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

Let's Get Moving Logo

Let's Get Moving

Exceptional9.13/10
based on 1,825+ data points

6599 Haines Rd N

St. Petersburg, FL, 33702

About Let's Get Moving

This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida...

Services

  • Commercial moving services
  • Residential moving services
  • Local moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2270761 / 775415

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved78,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 5,201+ data points

2549 Seven Springs Blvd

New Port Richey, FL, 34655

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck is a full-service, national moving company in Florida with over 35 years of experience. With a...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2113690 / FF-19726 812151

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers13
Total Annual Miles Moved310,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
P

Pride Moving

Fabulous8.49/10
based on 225+ data points

Tampa, FL

About Pride Moving

Pride Moving is a family-owned and operated moving company with over 20 years of experience, serving the Tampa Bay area and...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Cross-Country Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1835336 / 665351

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved380,557 (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.

Tampa vs. Bakersfield Neighborhood Comparison

Embarking on a move can be a daunting experience, especially when relocating to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've meticulously compared popular neighborhoods in Tampa, FL & Bakersfield, CA to help you find a comparable area that resonates with your current lifestyle and preferences. This guide serves as a bridge to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings, using your existing neighborhood as a baseline.

TampaBakersfieldHow They're Similar
Hyde ParkWestchesterHistoric charm, vibrant community
South TampaSeven OaksUpscale living, family-friendly
Seminole HeightsLaurelglenEclectic vibe, community-centric
Ybor CityDowntown BakersfieldRich history, nightlife
ChannelsideRiverlakesModern amenities, water views
Bayshore BeautifulStockdale EstatesScenic views, peaceful living
Davis IslandsHaggin OaksExclusive feel, upscale amenities
Palma CeiaOlde StockdalePrestigious golf community, serene
Tampa PalmsThe OaksSpacious homes, outdoor living
WestchaseBrimhall EstatesFamily-oriented, abundant parks

In your journey from Tampa, FL to Bakersfield, CA, discovering the right neighborhood is pivotal. For instance, if Hyde Park's historic charm won your heart in Tampa, Westchester's vibrant community and dedication to preservation in Bakersfield will make you feel right at home. Ybor City's fans will find the rich history and bustling nightlife of Downtown Bakersfield similarly enthralling, with attractions like the Fox Theater adding to its allure. Channelside's modern living finds its counterpart in Riverlakes, where the blend of upscale amenities and beautiful water views offer a serene yet connected lifestyle. Whether it's the serene, family-oriented ambiance of Westchase mirrored in Brimhall Estates with its spacious parks like Riverwalk Park, or the exclusive feel of Davis Islands reflected in the upscale community of Haggin Oaks, Bakersfield harbors neighborhoods that cater to a plethora of tastes and needs, ensuring your transition can be as smooth and welcoming as possible.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Tampa to Bakersfield

Moving from Tampa, FL to Bakersfield, CA, merits a balanced examination of the challenges and advantages you might face. This introspective look provides a realistic understanding of both the positive and negative aspects of such a relocation, ensuring you can make an informed decision suited to your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Tampa, FL iconTampa, FL
  • High humidity
  • Hurricane risk
  • Bug problems
  • Hot summers
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Dryer climate
  • Less natural disasters
  • Fewer pests
  • Milder summers
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • No beaches
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Desert landscape
  • Slightly higher costs
Tampa, FL iconTampa, FL
  • Beach access
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Lush landscapes
  • Lower cost of living

Moving from Tampa's lush, subtropical environment to Bakersfield's dryer climate can be quite a transition. In Tampa, you might be used to the humid air and the constant presence of water, whether it's the bay or the rain. Plus, the risk of hurricanes is something residents learn to live with. Bakersfield, on the other hand, offers a reprieve with its dry climate and significantly fewer pests, a welcome change for many. However, if you're someone who loves the beach, trading the Gulf Coast for the inland desert landscape of Bakersfield can be a tough adjustment. But for those looking to escape the humidity and seek out new adventures in a city ripe with opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking in the Sequoia National Forest, this move could be exactly what you're looking for. Bakersfield also boasts unique attractions like the Bakersfield Museum of Art, a vibrant downtown area, and an evolving culinary scene worth exploring.

Tampa vs. Bakersfield Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Tampa & Bakersfield is designed to give you a flavorful insight into what culinary delights await you in your new city. Understanding the food scene is crucial to feeling at home and embracing the local culture where you're moving.

TampaBakersfield
Most iconic local food itemCuban SandwichTri-tip
Most popular meat dishGator TailCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemEmpanadasTacos
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit TacosVegan Burritos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Columbia Restaurant
  • Bern's Steak House
  • Ella's Americana Folk Art Cafe
  • Wool Growers
  • Luigi's Deli and Market
  • Pyrenees Café
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Tampa, the Cuban Sandwich is a legendary item that can be found in historic Ybor City, where its rich Cuban heritage influences much of the local cuisine. Places like the Columbia Restaurant, an icon for over a century, offer a taste of this history. Meanwhile, in Bakersfield, the BBQ culture is epitomized by the tri-tip, a cut of beef that's uniquely Californian. The city's vibrant Mexican food scene, featuring tacos from street food vendors and traditional dishes like carne asada in local restaurants, reflects its significant Mexican-American population. Wool Growers, a local Basque restaurant, and Luigi's Deli and Market highlight Bakersfield's diverse food offerings. Whether you're moving from Tampa to Bakersfield, you'll find a new culinary world to explore.

Tampa vs. Bakersfield Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to eating spots. This restaurant comparison between Tampa, FL and Bakersfield, CA is crafted to ease your transition by linking you to familiar tastes and dining experiences. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to find your next favorite eateries, making anywhere feel like home.

TampaBakersfieldWhat You'll Love
Bern's Steak HouseThe Belvedere RoomUpscale dining experience with an emphasis on steaks and fine wines
UleleWool GrowersTraditional, family-style Basque dining that matches Ulele's emphasis on local history and culture
La Segunda Central BakerySmith's BakeriesOffering a variety of baked goods that have been pleasing locals for generations, similar to La Segunda's iconic status in Tampa
Columbia RestaurantLuigi's Restaurant and DelicatessenFamily-owned, offers a blend of timeless classic and authentic flavors reminiscent of Columbia's Spanish cuisine
Datz24th Street CafeKnown for its hearty, American comfort food with a creative twist, mirroring Datz's playful menu
Armature WorksTemueraA food hub offering diverse culinary experiences, from casual bites to fine dining, similar to Armature Works' setup
Eddie V's Prime SeafoodValentien Restaurant & Wine BarOffers sophisticated seafood dishes and an extensive wine list, akin to Eddie V's refined ambiance
Oxford ExchangeCafe SmittenCombines café culture with curated shopping, providing a similar vibe of community and lifestyle as Oxford Exchange
Rooster & the TillDot x OttA spot for foodies seeking fresh, farm-to-table meals, paralleling the creative and modern culinary approach of Rooster & the Till
Frenchy's Rockaway GrillSandrini's Public HouseOffers the laid-back, beachy vibe and fresh seafood flavors reminiscent of Frenchy's Rockaway Grill in Tampa

Exploring the culinary scene in a new city is an adventure that brings a sense of home. For instance, if you’ve enjoyed the upscale, immersive dining experience at Bern's Steak House in Tampa, The Belvedere Room in Bakersfield will cater to your love for refined steaks and wines. Similarly, those who find comfort in the unique, Spanish-infused dining at Columbia Restaurant can look forward to an authentic, family-owned charm at Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen. Each establishment not only serves as a pillar in its community but also offers familiar culinary delights that bridge the gap between Tampa and Bakersfield, warming you up to your new surroundings one plate at a time.

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Tampa vs. Bakersfield Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor when considering a relocation. Understanding how the housing markets, costs, and lifestyles of Tampa, FL and Bakersfield, CA compare will equip you with the necessary information to make an informed decision. This comparison seeks to illuminate the various aspects of housing in these cities.

ComparisonTampaBakersfield
Typical Architecture StyleModern and MediterraneanRanch and Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingWaterfront, Gated communitiesLarge backyards, Space for expansion

Moving from Tampa, FL to Bakersfield, CA brings notable changes in housing costs and lifestyle. Tampa's housing market is slightly more expensive, both in terms of purchasing and renting properties. However, it offers a more urban lifestyle, with greater walkability and bikeability, which aligns with its mix of modern and Mediterranean architecture styles. In contrast, Bakersfield leans towards a more suburban feel, reflected in its preference for ranch and modern architecture styles, with larger backyards mentioned frequently in real estate listings. This shift emphasizes the importance of considering how daily life and accessibility can change with a move, beyond just the cost of housing.

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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.

Tampa vs. Bakersfield Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another requires adjusting not just to a new environment but also to a different climate. Understanding how the weather compares between Tampa, FL and Bakersfield, CA is essential for a smoother transition. The purpose of the charts is to highlight the weather differences one might experience when moving from Tampa to Bakersfield.

Summer icon
90°F / 75°F

Tampa, FL

98°F / 66°F

Bakersfield, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
70°F / 52°F

Tampa, FL

55°F / 38°F

Bakersfield, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50"

Tampa, FL

6.47"

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

Tampa, FL

0"

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonTampaBakersfield
Air QualityGood to ModerateModerate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersHurricanes, FloodsEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Tampa to Bakersfield, you'll notice a significant change in both temperature ranges and humidity levels—Bakersfield is hotter in the summer and colder in winter but with much less humidity than Tampa. This can affect your day-to-day comfort and may influence the type of home heating and cooling systems you'll need. Also, Bakersfield enjoys more sunny days but be aware of the different natural disaster risks and air quality changes. Adapting to a drier climate might also impact your health, especially concerning allergies. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for life in California, ensuring a smoother adaptation process.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from Tampa, FL to Bakersfield, CA, it's crucial to understand how the financial landscape will change. By comparing key money and finance areas such as average household income, cost of living, and tax rates, you can better prepare for your new life.

ComparisonTampaBakersfield
Avg. Household Income$63,404$66,666
Cost of Living Index92.4103.4
State Income Tax0%up to 13.3%
Avg. Property TaxApprox. 0.97%Approx. 0.77%
Avg. Sales Tax7%8.25%
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Healthcare, RetailOil, Agriculture, Energy
AffluenceModerateModerate to High
PovertyNoticeableNoticeable
HomelessnessSignificantSignificant

Moving from Tampa to Bakersfield presents a notable shift in financial circumstances. While the average household income is higher in Bakersfield, the cost of living and sales tax rates also see an increase. This highlights the importance of budgeting more carefully for daily and monthly expenses. The absence of state income tax in Florida compared to California's tiered tax system can significantly impact your take-home pay. Additionally, the key industries differ greatly between the two cities, offering unique job opportunities relevant to their primary sectors. Being aware of these changes can pave the way for a smoother financial transition.

Tampa vs. Bakersfield Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison of the politics between Tampa & Bakersfield aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities. The information will help you understand the cultural and ideological environment you’re moving into.

TampaBakersfield
Political Make-upLean DemocraticLean Republican
Local PoliticsProgressive PoliciesConservative Policies
ReligionMixed, with significant Christian influenceStrongly Christian, evangelical presence

When comparing the political climates of Tampa and Bakersfield, you'll find that Tampa generally leans Democratic with more progressive local politics, which reflects in policies and local government actions. In contrast, Bakersfield leans Republican with a conservative approach to local governance. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, though Tampa offers a more diverse religious landscape. Bakersfield has a more pronounced Christian evangelical presence, which influences local culture and community events. Understanding these dynamics can help you navigate your new home with more insight.

Tampa vs. Bakersfield Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Tampa, FL to Bakersfield, CA introduces unique changes in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tampa & Bakersfield is designed to help you adjust smoothly to your new city.

ComparisonTampaBakersfield
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2622
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoNo

When you move from Tampa to Bakersfield, you'll notice a slight decrease in your average commute time - from 26 minutes down to 22 minutes. Although both cities have their share of traffic congestion, Bakersfield tends to be slightly more manageable. However, it's important to note that both locations score low on public transit availability, suggesting a dependency on personal vehicles for daily commuting. Despite this, adapting to your new traffic environment in Bakersfield might be a bit easier thanks to the lighter congestion. Keep in mind that regardless of the city, having access to a car remains a necessity for comfortably navigating your day-to-day errands and work commitments.

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