Best Detroit to Bakersfield Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Detroit to Bakersfield and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,309 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 Detroit 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 Professional Movers.com), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit 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 Detroit to Bakersfield Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Professional Movers.com8.548.07Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.478.22Authorized For HHGContact
3Balance Detroit8.447.79Authorized For Property, 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 Detroit to Bakersfield

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,309 miles from Detroit, MI to Bakersfield, CA will cost on average $3,745 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Bakersfield move is roughly $9,044. 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$2,512300 ft³8.37
1 Bedroom$3,745450 ft³8.32
2 Bedrooms$6,204750 ft³8.27
3 Bedrooms$9,0441100 ft³8.22
4 Bedrooms$13,0751600 ft³8.17
5+ Bedrooms$14,6191800 ft³8.12
*Please note: These Michigan to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Michigan & 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 MI to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Bakersfield to Detroit guide.

Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Bakersfield Movers

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

Professional Movers.com Logo

Professional Movers.com

Fabulous8.54/10
based on 270+ data points

1001 Woodward Ave Suite 500

Detroit, MI, 48226

About Professional Movers.com

With three locations in Michigan, including one in Detroit, family-owned Professional Movers is an expert moving company specializing in statewide, cross-country,...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • International Relocation

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

266582 / 178368

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans22
Registered Drivers19
Total Annual Miles Moved714,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.47/10
based on 379+ data points

11850 E Jefferson

Detroit, MI, 48214

About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Corporate moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
B

Balance Detroit

Fabulous8.44/10
based on 69+ data points

Livonia, MI, 48150

About Balance Detroit

Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...

Services

  • White Glove Service
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Small Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4059339 / 1539936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (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
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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.

Detroit vs. Bakersfield Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can feel like stepping into the unknown, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that resonates with your lifestyle and preferences. To bridge this gap, we've crafted a guide that draws parallels between Detroit, MI & Bakersfield, CA local neighborhoods, helping you discover your new favorite area in a city you're about to call home. Discover neighborhoods that mirror the spirit of your current locale, easing your transition.

DetroitBakersfieldHow They're Similar
MidtownWestchesterVibrant arts scene and local eateries
CorktownOld StockdaleHistoric charm with a tight-knit community feel
Downtown DetroitDowntown BakersfieldActive nightlife and developing urban core
Eastern MarketSeven OaksBustling marketplaces and community-focused living
Brush ParkLaurelglenElegant homes and well-maintained streets
WoodbridgeRosedaleRural vibes with spacious homes
Indian VillageHaggin OaksAffluent with historical homes
PalmertownStockdale EstatesFamily-friendly with a sense of community
RiverfrontRiverlakesAccess to water activities and scenic views
Boston-EdisonOlde StockdaleExclusive, with stately homes

In the heart of Westchester, the buzzing arts scene and cozy spots like KC Steakhouse recreate Midtown Detroit’s eclectic vibe, appealing to those who adore a blend of creativity and culinary delights. For those drawn to Corktown’s historical allure, Old Stockdale’s stately charm and communal warmth, reminiscent of Stockdale Country Club’s inviting ambiance, will make you feel right at home. Meanwhile, Downtown Bakersfield mirrors Downtown Detroit’s energetic nightlife and burgeoning city life, offering entertainment hubs and urban parks, such as Mill Creek, akin to Detroit's Campus Martius. These comparisons not only facilitate your relocation but also help you envision your life in Bakersfield's neighborhoods with clarity and excitement.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Bakersfield

Moving from one city to another is a significant life decision that comes with its share of advantages and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Detroit, MI to Bakersfield, CA . By assessing the cons and pros through tailored charts, you'll gain insights into what to expect in terms of lifestyle changes, climate differences, and cultural adjustments.

CONs
PROs
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Higher Crime Rates
  • Colder Winters
  • Lower Job Growth
  • Smaller Cultural Scene
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Lower Crime Rates
  • Warmer Winters
  • Higher Job Growth
  • Larger Cultural Scene
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Less Music History
  • No Major Water Bodies
  • Modern Landscapes
  • Higher Cost of Living
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Rich Musical Heritage
  • Lakes & Waterfronts
  • Historic Architecture
  • Lower Cost of Living

While Detroit, MI, boasts a rich musical heritage with landmarks like the Motown Museum, Bakersfield offers a vibrant cultural scene with events such as the annual Bakersfield Jazz Festival. Although moving from the historical and architecturally diverse neighborhoods of Detroit to the modern landscapes of Bakersfield might seem like a culture shock, the transition brings you closer to the great outdoors, like the scenic Hart Park, and a constantly growing job market. While you'll miss the Great Lakes, you'll find solace in Bakersfield's unique natural beauty and outdoor activities. Embracing the new surroundings, from the bustling Downtown Arts District to the serene walks in Mill Creek Park, will help make Bakersfield feel like home.

Detroit vs. Bakersfield Food Guide

Food isn't just sustenance; it's a vital part of local culture and defines the lifestyle in a region. This guide highlights the distinctions in the food scene as part of our comparison of local cuisine between Detroit & Bakersfield . Understanding these differences will help you get a taste—literally—of what life in your new city will be like.

DetroitBakersfield
Most iconic local food itemConey DogTri-tip
Most popular meat dishDetroit-style PizzaCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemGyrosTacos
Most popular vegan foodTempeh ReubenJackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Wool Growers
  • Pyrenees Café
  • Luigi’s Restaurant
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Detroit, the birthplace of the iconic Coney Dog, you'll find an enthusiastic embrace of comfort foods, with Detroit-style pizza, topped with a unique blend of cheese that caramelizes at the edges, as a must-try. Neighborhoods like Midtown and Corktown are bustling with culinary evolution, housing establishments like Slows Bar BQ and the historic Lafayette Coney Island. On the other side, Bakersfield brings its own flavor to the table with its famous Tri-tip and a strong Mexican culinary influence, evident in its popular Carne Asada and street tacos. You can savor Bakersfield's rich food heritage at local favorites like Wool Growers and Luigi’s Restaurant, revealing the city's Basque and Italian influences. Both cities boast an evolving food scene, yet each retains a unique cultural identity reflective of their local history and community.

Detroit vs. Bakersfield Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, discovering local culinary gems plays a vital role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Detroit, MI, and Bakersfield, CA, is designed to ease your transition by pairing your favorite Detroit eateries with their Bakersfield counterparts. Let's embark on this flavorful journey together, helping you find your next go-to dining spots.

DetroitBakersfieldWhat You'll Love
Selden StandardLuigi's Restaurant & DelicatessenBoth offer an intimate, high-quality dining experience focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Supino PizzeriaCubbies Chicago Style PizzaA spot for thin-crust pizza lovers, resembling the hand-tossed, artisanal quality of Supino's.
Slows Bar BQWool Growers RestaurantBoth represent iconic local flavors; Wool Growers for Basque cuisine and Slows for BBQ in their respective cities.
La Feria Spanish TapasUricchio's TrattoriaTapas vs. Italian might seem a stretch, but both bring a shared dining experience with a European flair.
Rose's Fine Food24th Street CafeBoth offer a unique, homey dining experience with an emphasis on classic, comfort foods made from scratch.
RoastThe MarkHigh-end dining with a focus on meat-centric dishes, akin to Roast's menu and ambience.
Kuzzo's Chicken & WafflesSouthern Comfort KitchenSimilar in serving soul food favorites, their chicken and waffles plates make you feel right at home.
Taqueria El ReyTacos La Villa Mexican GrillBoth are appreciated for authenticity and the vibrant flavors of their Mexican street food.
Greektown Casino-HotelThe Padre HotelWhile one is a casino and one a hotel, both house multiple dining options that cater to diverse tastes.
Detroit Vegan SoulVida VeganSharing the mission of providing delicious, plant-based dishes that appeal to both vegans and omnivores alike.

Exploring Bakersfield's dining scene reveals rich parallels to Detroit's, ensuring you won't miss your old haunts for long. At Luigi's Restaurant & Delicatessen, the emphasis on high-quality, fresh ingredients instantly reminds one of the culinary finesse found at Detroit's Selden Standard. Meanwhile, fans of Detroit Vegan Soul will be delighted by the wide range of creative, plant-based dishes at Vida Vegan. Each Bakersfield counterpart not only offers a taste reminiscent of Detroit's beloved eateries but also brings its unique flair and charm, contributing to a vibrant local food culture that's waiting to be your new favorite.

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Detroit vs. Bakersfield Real Estate & Living Facts

Understanding the real estate landscape is crucial when considering a move. This comparison focuses on the key aspects of housing between Detroit, MI, and Bakersfield, CA. It's essential to grasp how these two cities stack up in terms of cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities to make an informed decision for your relocation.

ComparisonDetroitBakersfield
Typical Architecture StyleHistoric BungalowsRanch-style Homes
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, Historic charmOpen floor plans, Modern appliances


When comparing Detroit and Bakersfield from a real estate perspective, it's evident that each city offers a unique living experience. Detroit, with its rich history, boasts affordable housing and notable historic bungalows that add to the city's charm. On the other hand, Bakersfield presents a more modern living experience with its ranch-style homes and contemporary amenities. An interesting contrast is Detroit's better urban lifestyle score, suggesting a vibrant city life, while Bakersfield offers a quieter, more suburban atmosphere. Additionally, the significant difference in median home prices highlights the economic disparities between the two cities, making Detroit a more affordable option. However, Bakersfield excels in bikeability, indicative of its commitment to providing greener, more sustainable transportation options.

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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.

Detroit vs. Bakersfield Weather Considerations

When planning your move from Detroit, MI, to Bakersfield, CA, understanding how the weather differences will impact your daily life is crucial. This comparison highlights the contrast between Detroit and Bakersfield's climate conditions, helping you prepare for your new home.

Summer icon
83/63

Detroit, MI

98/68

Bakersfield, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35/22

Detroit, MI

55/38

Bakersfield, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
33.46

Detroit, MI

6.47

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
33

Detroit, MI

0

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDetroitBakersfield
Air QualityModerateUnhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, occasional tornadoesEarthquakes, wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Comparing Detroit and Bakersfield, you'll notice significant differences, especially in terms of sunshine and winter temperatures. Bakersfield enjoys nearly 100 more days of sunshine and much milder winters, which means you'll likely encounter far less snow but face higher summer temperatures and potentially more extreme heat. The shift in air quality and natural disaster risks, from snowstorms to earthquakes and wildfires, will require some adjustments in your daily living and possibly your home insurance policy. Additionally, if you have allergies, the predominant allergens shift with the geography. Preparing for these changes can ensure a smoother transition to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When transitioning from one city to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. Here, we're comparing the cost of living and economic factors between Detroit, MI and Bakersfield, CA . This chart lays out the essentials, helping you understand how your money matters will change with your move.

ComparisonDetroitBakersfield
Avg. Household Income$36,140$66,666
Cost of Living Index99.4103.4
State Income Tax4.259.3
Avg. Property Tax1.680.76
Avg. Sales Tax67.25
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Healthcare, EducationAgriculture, Oil, Manufacturing
AffluenceLowerModerate
PovertyHighHigh
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

Moving from Detroit to Bakersfield will introduce you to a varied financial landscape. Bakersfield enjoys a higher average household income, which might be due to California's wider variety of high-paying industries like oil and agriculture. Yet, this higher income is met with a higher cost of living, driven partially by state income tax and sales tax rates exceeding those in Michigan. Despite these financial shifts, both cities struggle with high poverty levels, though Bakersfield presents a slightly better situation regarding homelessness. This comparison suggests that while you may find financial opportunities in Bakersfield, it’s vital to prepare for the higher costs awaiting you.

Detroit vs. Bakersfield Political & Religious Comparison

This brief comparison aims to give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents moving from Detroit, MI to Bakersfield, CA . Understanding these aspects will help you anticipate the social and cultural differences you might encounter.

DetroitBakersfield
Political Make-upPrimarily DemocraticMixed, but leans Republican
Local PoliticsLiberalConservative
ReligionDiversePredominantly Christian

In Detroit, you'll find a community that generally supports Democratic candidates, with local politics that tend to lean liberal. This might be reflected in city policies and the general atmosphere of community events and discussions. As you move to Bakersfield, you might notice a significant shift. Bakersfield's political landscape is more diverse, with a stronger presence of Republican or conservative views, especially in local politics. This could influence the type of political discussions you hear in your new neighborhood or the community initiatives you see. Regarding religion, both cities offer a variety of establishments catering to different faiths, but Bakersfield has a larger Christian community which might be more visible in community events and gatherings.

Detroit vs. Bakersfield Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When considering a move from Detroit, MI to Bakersfield, CA, it's crucial to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between these two cities. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what your daily commute and traffic interactions may look like, helping you adjust to your new home with ease.

ComparisonDetroitBakersfield
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2522
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?ChallengingVery challenging

In Detroit, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Bakersfield, reflecting perhaps a larger urban sprawl and reliance on commuting from suburbs. Despite this, Detroit experiences a moderate level of traffic congestion, making travel predictable but occasionally frustrating. Public transit options exist, but with limited reach and frequency, making a car almost essential for day-to-day life. Bakersfield, on the other hand, enjoys shorter average commutes and lower traffic congestion, making it easier to get around. However, the city's public transit scores lower than Detroit's, making a car even more crucial to navigate the city conveniently. Ultimately, while both cities pose challenges to getting by without personal transportation, Bakersfield's infrastructure makes it especially difficult to rely on public transit.

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