Best Portland to Bakersfield Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Interstate MoversChevron RightMaineChevron RightPortlandChevron RightPortland to Bakersfield

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Portland to Bakersfield and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,163 mile move from Maine to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 14 Portland 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 You Move Me Portland), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $11,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland 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.

Best Portland to Bakersfield Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Portland to Bakersfield Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1You Move Me Portland9.269.4Authorized For HHGContact
2SC Moving Services9.189.35ActiveContact
3Vacationland Moving9.029.22Authorized 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 Portland to Bakersfield

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,163 miles from Portland, ME to Bakersfield, CA will cost on average $4,471 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Bakersfield move is roughly $10,819. 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$2,996300 ft³9.99
1 Bedroom$4,471450 ft³9.94
2 Bedrooms$7,414750 ft³9.89
3 Bedrooms$10,8191100 ft³9.84
4 Bedrooms$15,6571600 ft³9.79
5+ Bedrooms$17,5241800 ft³9.74
*Please note: These Maine to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Maine & 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 ME to CA mover.
Maine iconArrow iconCalifornia icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Bakersfield to Portland guide.

Compare the 5 Best Portland to Bakersfield Movers

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

You Move Me Portland Logo

You Move Me Portland

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,680+ data points

9442 SW Barbur Blvd

Portland, OR, 97219

About You Move Me Portland

You Move Me Portland is the mover your neighbors trust and recommend. In terms of reliability, customer service, and professionalism, this...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2388358 / 820850

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved45,000 (2020)
View Full Review
1
SC Moving Services Logo

SC Moving Services

Exceptional9.18/10
based on 644+ data points

25 Augusta St

South Portland, ME, 04106

About SC Moving Services

SC Moving Services is a family-owned and operated business located in South Portland, offering a wide range of services to Southern...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2324405 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2016)
View Full Review
2
Vacationland Moving Logo

Vacationland Moving

Superb
claimed company icon
9.02/10
based on 288+ data points

1484 Maine St Apt 1

Poland, ME, 04274

About Vacationland Moving

Vacationland Moving is a relocation specialist company based in Portland, Maine. Their services, which are considered some of the finest moving...

Services

  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Packing & Unpacking Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3540196 / 1181718

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2024)
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
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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.

Portland vs. Bakersfield Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating to a new city can be daunting, especially when you are unfamiliar with its neighborhoods. This comparison aims to help you find your footing by identifying the local neighborhoods between Portland, ME & Bakersfield, CA , offering you a sense of familiarity in an otherwise unknown setting.

PortlandBakersfieldHow They're Similar
Old PortDowntownVibrant nightlife and dining
West EndStockdale EstatesHistoric homes and leafy streets
East EndLaurel GlenTrendy shops and art scene
Deering CenterRivieraFamily-friendly with parks
RosemontQuailwoodSuburban feel and community vibe
Nason's CornerPolo GroundsQuiet residential area
North DeeringThe OaksSpacious, green areas
StroudwaterThe La CrestaNatural reserves and open space
Back CoveSeven OaksWaterside views
Munjoy HillPanoramaHilltop views and vibrant community

If you adore the bustling energy and historic appeal of Old Port, Bakersfield's Downtown will suit you with its dynamic array of restaurants and nightlife. Meanwhile, if you're a fan of the artistic flair and trendy vibe of Portland's East End, you'll find Laurel Glen charming with its thriving art scene and unique boutiques. Families enjoying Portland's Deering Center will feel at home in the Riviera neighborhood, known for its tranquil parks like Riviera Park and welcoming community environment. For those who appreciate the leafy streets and historic homes of the West End, Stockdale Estates offers a similar tranquil vibe with elegant and timeless residences.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Bakersfield

Considering a move from Portland, ME to Bakersfield, CA? This comparison provides an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, focusing on the major pros and cons of both cities to help you make an informed decision about your potential new home.

CONs
PROs
Portland, ME iconPortland, ME
  • Cold winters
  • Limited job market
  • High heating costs
  • Limited public transport
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Mild winters
  • Growing economy
  • Lower energy bills
  • Extensive road network
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Landlocked
  • Fewer historical sites
  • Lacks cultural variety
  • Hot, dry summers
Portland, ME iconPortland, ME
  • Beautiful coastline
  • Rich history
  • Strong local culture
  • Cooler summers

Adjusting to Bakersfield from Portland comes with its unique dynamics. You'll trade the stunning views of Portland's coastline for the more expansive inland vistas around Bakersfield. While the cultural vibe may differ, options like the Rabobank Arena and downtown Bakersfield provide ample opportunities for entertainment. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in places like Kern River County Park which offers a beautiful escape. Although summers can be significantly hotter, the presence of quality amenities can make acclimatizing easier. Enjoy the bustling restaurant scene, featuring local gems such as Luigi’s, as you find your niche in the community.

Portland vs. Bakersfield Food Guide

Food is an integral part of local culture and greatly influences your experience of living in a particular place. Here, we explore the culinary contrasts between Maine’s vibrant coastal city and California’s sun-soaked, agriculture-driven town. This comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & Bakersfield aims to better inform you about the food scene where you are moving to.

PortlandBakersfield
Most iconic local food itemLobster RollBasque Bread
Most popular meat dishClam ChowderTri-tip Steak
Most popular street food itemFish TacosTacos
Most popular vegan foodFarm-to-Table SaladsVegan Chili
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When relocating to Bakersfield, you'll quickly notice its culinary heritage, especially in areas like downtown and Old Town Kern, where Basque restaurants such as the Wool Growers Restaurant offer communal dining experiences. If you're a fan of steaks, tri-tip is a local favorite you’ll find served with various sauces in restaurants around the city. For those seeking plant-based options, neighborhoods like River Walk have eateries serving up hearty vegan chili. While Portland's artisan food scene is widely celebrated, Bakersfield shines with its unique fusion of agricultural influences, multicultural cuisines, and local flavors, providing a distinct dining experience all its own.

Portland vs. Bakersfield Restaurant Comparison

Food is a vital factor in making a place feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants in Portland and Bakersfield will help you discover new favorite eateries, guiding you from your current hometown gems to equivalents across the country.

PortlandBakersfieldWhat You'll Love
Fore StreetLuigi's RestaurantA focus on farm-to-table high-end dining with a rustic ambiance
DuckfatThe Guild House GastropubKnown for its casual yet eclectic menu and house-made specialties
Eventide Oyster Co.KC SteakhouseOffers a dedicated selection of fresh seafood and steakhouse classics, creating a similar experience for shellfish lovers
Becky's Diner24th Street CafeBoth offer hearty, classic American breakfasts with memorable diner vibes
Central ProvisionsFlame & Fire Brazilian SteakhouseEmphasizes small plates and bold flavors, similar to its Portland counterpart
Street & Co.Frugatti'sKnown for Mediterranean-inspired seafood offerings that echo a coastal dining feel
BodaChef's Choice Noodle BarAn inviting spot for contemporary Asian cuisine with a twist
Hot SuppaBonnie's Best CafeBoth specialize in comfort food with a creative modern touch
Empire Chinese KitchenGreat Castle Chinese RestaurantOffers authentic Chinese dishes in an inviting environment
Tandem Coffee RoastersCafé SmittenFavorite local spots for coffee enthusiasts, known for expertly crafted brew

When you're searching for that unforgettable dining experience in Bakersfield, head to Luigi's Restaurant, whose dedication to high-end, farm-to-table offerings rivals Portland's esteemed Fore Street. If you savor the delights of fresh seafood found at Eventide Oyster Co., then KC Steakhouse awaits you with a welcoming spread of surf and turf. For those casual meals bursting with flavor, a visit to The Guild House Gastropub mirrors the eclectic joy you'd find at Portland's Duckfat. Whether it's comfort food or fresh-brewed coffee on your mind, Bakersfield is sure to offer a familiar spark of culinary excitement.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Portland vs. Bakersfield Real Estate & Living Facts


Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It’s crucial to understand how housing in Portland, ME and Bakersfield, CA compare, offering insights into various aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle.

ComparisonPortlandBakersfield
Typical Architecture StyleNew England ColonialRanch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingFireplacesLarge Yards


When moving to Bakersfield, you might appreciate the lower median home prices compared to Portland, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious buyers. Moreover, if large outdoor spaces and ranch-style homes appeal to you, Bakersfield's real estate market stands out. On the other hand, Portland offers a more walkable urban environment, making it ideal for those who enjoy strolling through a city rich in culture and history. If you experience the allure of New England Colonial architecture or quaint fireplaces, Portland's neighborhoods might be irresistible.

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.

Portland vs. Bakersfield Weather Considerations

When moving from Portland, ME to Bakersfield, CA , understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison can help you prepare for the changes in climate you'll experience and adjust accordingly.

Summer icon
78/58

Portland, ME

97/69

Bakersfield, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
34/16

Portland, ME

58/39

Bakersfield, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

Portland, ME

6

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
62

Portland, ME

0

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonPortlandBakersfield
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersSnowstormsEarthquakes, wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

As you settle into Bakersfield, you'll notice a significant increase in summer temperatures compared to Portland, with high averages in the upper 90s. The mild winters in Bakersfield, with highs near 58°F, provide a welcome relief from Portland's chilly winters. With substantially more sunny days and a lower annual rainfall, you'll likely spend more time outdoors in Bakersfield. However, prepare for the occasional air quality concerns due to dust and pollution, which differ from Portland's consistently good air quality.

Ready to start your move?

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

If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This chart highlights key financial differences between Portland, ME and Bakersfield, CA , helping you make informed decisions about your relocation.

ComparisonPortlandBakersfield
Avg. Household Income$70,244$66,666
Cost of Living Index116.5103.4
State Income Tax7.1513.3
Avg. Property Tax1.300.77
Avg. Sales Tax5.57.25
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Education, TourismAgriculture, Energy, Retail
AffluenceModerateModerate
PovertyLowHigh
HomelessnessVisibleSignificant

When considering your move to Bakersfield, you'll find a noticeable decrease in the cost of living index compared to Portland. Bakersfield's significantly higher state income tax rate may affect your take-home pay, although its lower property tax can be a financial advantage if you plan to buy a home. The prominent industries in each city also shed light on potential career opportunities; while Portland is rich in healthcare and education, Bakersfield boasts a robust agriculture and energy sector. Additionally, the visible homelessness in both cities may influence your community engagement or activism.

Portland vs. Bakersfield Political & Religious Comparison

The following comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering insights for those considering a move. Discover the comparison of the politics between Portland & Bakersfield to help you better understand the community dynamics as you relocate.

PortlandBakersfield
Political Make-upLeans LiberalLeans Conservative
Local PoliticsDemocratically InclinedRepublican Stronghold
ReligionPredominantly Non-religiousHigher Religious Affiliation

Understanding the political and religious environment of your new city is crucial for a smooth transition. While Portland's community tends to be more liberal, Bakersfield leans towards conservatism, which might influence your daily experiences and social interactions. The dominant political parties in both cities also reflect these trends, with Portland generally favoring democratic perspectives, whereas Bakersfield aligns more closely with republican ideologies. Religion plays a more significant role in Bakersfield, where community events often center around local churches like St. John's Lutheran Church, compared to the largely non-religious demographic of Portland.

Portland vs. Bakersfield Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, here’s a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Bakersfield . Whether you rely on public transit or consider using a car, knowing the differences in commuting can aid your decision on which transportation method suits you best.

ComparisonPortlandBakersfield
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2025
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?YesNo

Navigating through Portland, you’ll find that the city offers a robust public transit system with buses and ferries that make it possible to live without a car. In contrast, Bakersfield's transit options are less frequent and more limited, often making car travel a necessity for longer commutes. While both cities experience traffic congestion during peak hours, Bakersfield tends to have slightly more congestion than Portland, which can impact your daily travel time.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Portland to Bakersfield Movers Featured Image