Best Grand Rapids to Bakersfield Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,204 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 13 Grand Rapids 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 MASS Movers), 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 Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids to Bakersfield Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MASS Movers | 9.01 | 9.15 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.97 | 9.19 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Powell Relocation Group | 8.88 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | Excel Relocation Systems | 8.18 | 8.5 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc. | 8.12 | 8.45 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,204 miles from Grand Rapids, MI to Bakersfield, CA will cost on average $3,655 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Grand Rapids to Bakersfield move is roughly $8,826. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,452 | 300 ft³ | 8.17 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,655 | 450 ft³ | 8.12 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,055 | 750 ft³ | 8.07 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,826 | 1100 ft³ | 8.02 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,757 | 1600 ft³ | 7.97 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,262 | 1800 ft³ | 7.92 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Bakersfield to Grand Rapids guide.
Compare the 5 Best Grand Rapids to Bakersfield Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
MASS Movers
Lansing, MI, 48910
About MASS Movers
MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...
Services
- Packing Service
- Large Item Moving
- Small to Medium Business Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3333210 / 1062576 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 32,500 (2024) |
Kingsley Moving Systems
610 Detroit St
Lansing, MI, 48912
About Kingsley Moving Systems
Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its...
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Interstate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1890987 / 682343 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 140,000 (2023) |
Powell Relocation Group
4937 Starr St SE
Grand Rapids, MI, 49546
About Powell Relocation Group
Powell Relocation Group, founded in 1962, is a globally recognized and multi-award-winning moving company that believes quality does not need to...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Services
- Corporate Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 261884 / 176235 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 53 |
| Registered Drivers | 50 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 900,000 (2021) |
Excel Relocation Systems
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2911596 / 981013 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Broker |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 22 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 262,226 (2022) |
Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2728836 / 88698 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 12,000 (2023) |
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.
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.
Grand Rapids vs. Bakersfield Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming, but comparing your familiar neighborhood with a similar one in your new city can help. This guide is tailored to help you transition from Grand Rapids, MI to Bakersfield, CA by comparing the local neighborhoods. You'll discover parallels that will make Bakersfield feel like home in no time.
| Grand Rapids | Bakersfield | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Grand Rapids | Seven Oaks | Upscale, family-friendly vibe |
| Heritage Hill | Westchester | Historic homes, strong community feel |
| Midtown | Stockdale Estates | Vibrant local shopping and dining |
| Fulton Heights | Laurelglen | Quiet, residential, with parks |
| Eastown | Olde Stockdale | Unique shops, local eateries |
| Cherry Hill | Quailwood | Family-oriented, strong sense of community |
| Belknap Lookout | Panorama | Dramatic views, close-knit community feeling |
| Creston | Park Stockdale | Active neighborhood associations, amenities |
| Roosevelt Park | Riverlakes | Recreational areas, community-centered |
| Wealthy Street | Haggin Oaks | Affluent, with cultural hotspots |
For example, if you've enjoyed the historic charm and community events of Heritage Hill, you'll find a kindred spirit in Bakersfield's Westchester neighborhood. Westchester boasts a rich history mirrored in its preserved homes and manicured lawns, echoing Heritage Hill's aesthetic. Similarly, Eastown's eclectic and vibrant energy is closely matched by Olde Stockdale in Bakersfield, where the local boutiques and eateries like Cafe Smitten offer a unique and welcoming atmosphere to all who visit. Moreover, for those used to the family-friendly and outdoor lifestyle of Fulton Heights, Laurelglen's parks and quiet residential streets provide a seamless transition, preserving that close-knit community vibe that makes a neighborhood feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield
Moving from one city to another comes with its set of challenges and rewards. This guide seeks to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Grand Rapids, MI to Bakersfield, CA, comparing the cons to the pros and vice versa, to help you make a well-informed decision.
Grand Rapids, MI- Colder winters
- Lesser sunny days
- Smaller city vibe
- Lesser job opportunities
Bakersfield, CA- Milder winters
- More sunny days
- Larger city feel
- More diverse industries
Bakersfield, CA- Desert landscape
- Hotter summers
- Smaller art scene
- Fewer breweries
Grand Rapids, MI- Lakeside beauty
- Lush green summers
- Rich cultural scene
- Vibrant craft brewing
While moving from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield could mean trading the cold, snowy winters for milder ones and gaining access to more sunny days, it also means adjusting to a different landscape. You'll leave behind the lakeside beauty and lush greenery of Grand Rapids for the unique desert landscape of Bakersfield. However, Bakersfield offers its charm with attractions like The Kern County Museum and vibrant spots like Buck Owens' Crystal Palace for music lovers. The job market in Bakersfield is diverse, with industries like oil and agriculture taking the lead, providing a wealth of new opportunities. Contrastingly, you might miss Grand Rapids' vibrant craft brewing scene, but you'll find new flavors and communities to explore in Bakersfield’s growing culinary and arts scene, such as The Fox Theater for live entertainment. Each city has its own charm and challenges, and discovering what each offers can be an exciting journey.
Grand Rapids vs. Bakersfield Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Bakersfield serves to enlighten you about the vibrant food scene in both cities. Understanding the culinary offerings is crucial as food plays a significant role in the local culture and everyday living experience of an area. This guide will help you get acquainted with what awaits your palate.
| Grand Rapids | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Beer Cheese Soup | Tri-tip |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork Belly | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Quinoa Salads |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Grand Rapids, the bustling Fulton Street Farmers Market is a haven for food lovers, offering an array of fresh and locally produced items. Meanwhile, the tri-tip, a signature dish in Bakersfield, can be savored at local favorites like Wool Growers or during a casual evening at Lengthwise Brewing Company. Both cities take pride in their food truck scenes, with Bakersfield slightly edging out in variety. For the health-conscious and vegan diners, both cities have seen a surge in options, but Bakersfield's quinoa salads and vegan-friendly establishments have become particularly noteworthy.
Grand Rapids vs. Bakersfield Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new favorite spot to dine is a cornerstone of making a new city feel like home. Food carries the essence of a place, making it essential to find local eats that resonate with your palate. This comparison aims to bridge your culinary journey from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield, helping you discover parallel dining experiences that’ll remind you of home while embracing your new locale.
| Grand Rapids | Bakersfield | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Grove | Luigi's | Both offer a fine dining experience with a focus on local, fresh ingredients. |
| San Chez Bistro | Narducci's Café | Similar in their eclectic and homey take on classic dishes with a unique twist. |
| The Chop House | Wool Growers | Both are go-tos for a high-end meat-centric dining experience, specializing in steaks and chops. |
| HopCat | Lengthwise Brewing Company | Craft beer enthusiasts will find a home here, with an excellent selection of beers and hearty pub fare. |
| Maru Sushi & Grill | Tokyo Garden | Offers a comparable upscale sushi and Japanese cuisine experience. |
| Madcap Coffee Company | Dagny's Coffee Company | Both are beloved local coffee shops known for their high-quality beans and cozy atmospheres. |
| Founders Brewing Co. | Temblor Brewing Company | These breweries share a passion for crafting a wide range of unique and flavorful beers. |
| Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar | Pyrenees Café | Both restaurants are celebrated for their fresh seafood offerings and casual yet inviting dining atmosphere. |
| Yesterdog | Roots Eatery | Captures the spirit of a neighborhood staple known for their unique hot dogs and casual eats. |
| Uncle Cheetah's Soup Shop | 24th Street Café | Provides a comfort-food-focused menu with hearty soups and sandwiches, reminiscent of Uncle Cheetah’s. |
In your culinary exploration of Bakersfield, you'll encounter Luigi's and Wool Growers, establishments that echo the reverence for locally sourced ingredients and culinary craftsmanship found in Grove and The Chop House of Grand Rapids. Meanwhile, for those who cherish the vibrant craft beer scene, Lengthwise Brewing Company offers an experience akin to what HopCat provides, with its selection of craft beers and pub fare designed to please the palate. Coffee aficionados moving from Grand Rapids will find solace in Dagny's Coffee Company, where the dedication to quality coffee and a welcoming ambience mirrors that of Madcap Coffee Company. Each of these comparisons not only shows the shared passions between the cities’ dining scenes but also ensures that you’ll be able to find a slice of Grand Rapids within the heart of Bakersfield.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. Bakersfield Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, it's crucial to compare the real estate landscapes of your current and potential new home. Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move , offering insights into cost, lifestyle, and community. Let's dive into how Grand Rapids, MI and Bakersfield, CA stack up in these areas.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Mid-century Modern, Dutch Colonial | Ranch, Mediterranean |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Family-friendly neighborhoods, Proximity to Lake Michigan | Outdoor living spaces, Proximity to national parks |
The housing market in both Grand Rapids and Bakersfield offers distinct advantages, depending on your lifestyle and preferences. Grand Rapids, with its Mid-century Modern and Dutch Colonial homes, presents a more affordable median home price and is slightly more walkable than Bakersfield. The city prides itself on family-friendly neighborhoods and close proximity to Lake Michigan, catering to those who enjoy a blend of urban and outdoor lifestyles. Conversely, Bakersfield's housing market leans heavily on the availability of Ranch and Mediterranean-style homes, emphasizing outdoor living spaces and access to national parks. Despite having a higher median home price and rent, Bakersfield's appeal lies in its unique blend of California living with a suburban touch. Choosing between these cities will depend heavily on your preference for architectural styles, walkability, and lifestyle amenities that each city excels in providing.
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.
Grand Rapids vs. Bakersfield Weather Considerations
When planning a move, understanding how the climate shifts is crucial, especially when transitioning from one distinct environment to another. A climate comparison between Grand Rapids, MI, and Bakersfield, CA, highlights the stark weather differences you should prepare for. Knowing what to expect can greatly ease your adjustment to a new home.
Grand Rapids, MI
Bakersfield, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Bakersfield, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Bakersfield, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Grand Rapids, MI
Bakersfield, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield introduces you to a much drier and hotter climate, with Bakersfield enjoying over 100 more days of sunshine annually. While Grand Rapids battles with significant snowfalls, totaling nearly 75 inches each year, Bakersfield remains snow-free. The dramatic reduction in humidity from 72% to 50% will be a noticeable change, potentially impacting everything from your skin to how you manage daily hydration. Moreover, the air quality and predominant natural disasters starkly differ, indicating a complete environmental shift that merits preparation for new health and safety considerations.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield
When planning to relocate, understanding how your finances will shift is crucial. This comparison between Grand Rapids, MI and Bakersfield, CA highlights vital economic factors to consider, providing a snapshot of what to expect in terms of income, taxes, and living costs.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,596 | $66,666 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.7 | 103.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 8.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Education | Oil, Agriculture, Energy |
| Affluence | moderate | moderate to high |
| Poverty | noticeable | noticeable |
| Homelessness | concerning | growing concern |
In comparing Grand Rapids, MI to Bakersfield, CA, it's evident that while the average household income is slightly higher in Bakersfield, the cost of living and taxes also rise. Bakersfield's sales tax and state income tax are noticeably higher, potentially offsetting its higher income advantage. However, property taxes are more favorable in Bakersfield, offering some respite. Both cities show a moderate level of affluence, with noticeable poverty rates and concerns around homelessness indicating socio-economic challenges. Distinctly, the leading industries differ greatly, hinting at the economic drivers in each city and possibly influencing job market opportunities. This paints a comprehensive picture of what to expect financially, aiding in your transition.
Grand Rapids vs. Bakersfield Political & Religious Comparison
When considering moving from Grand Rapids, MI, to Bakersfield, CA, understanding the local community's fabric is crucial. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Grand Rapids & Bakersfield , offering a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of these cities.
| Grand Rapids | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately Conservative | Conservative |
| Local Politics | Diverse city leadership | Conservative city council |
| Religion | Christian, with a strong Reformed community | Christian, diverse denominations |
Moving from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield, you'll find both cities share a strong Christian religious community, though with varied denominations and practices. While Grand Rapids has a notable reformed Christian population, Bakersfield encompasses a wider range of Christian denominations, reflecting California's diverse population. Politically, Bakersfield leans more conservatively compared to the moderate conservatism found in Grand Rapids. This is mirrored in local politics, with Bakersfield's city council having a conservative outlook, which may influence local policies and governance. Understanding these differences can help you better acclimate to your new home.
Grand Rapids vs. Bakersfield Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Making the move from Grand Rapids, MI to Bakersfield, CA brings with it a need to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Grand Rapids & Bakersfield will help you navigate this change smoothly.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Very Challenging |
In both Grand Rapids and Bakersfield, you'll find that daily commutes are relatively similar in length, with a marginal difference in average commute times. Traffic congestion levels are also comparable, indicating that neither city suffers from severe traffic problems. However, when it comes to public transportation, Grand Rapids has a slight edge over Bakersfield, implying a somewhat more reliable public transit system. That said, in both cities, leading a lifestyle without a car poses its challenges, with Bakersfield being slightly more difficult due to less availability of public transit options. It signifies the importance of having a personal vehicle for convenience, despite the existence of public transportation in both locations.
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