Best Tacoma to Bakersfield Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Tacoma to Bakersfield and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 993 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Tacoma 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 John Volken Academy Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tacoma 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 Tacoma to Bakersfield Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | First Due Movers | 9.25 | 9.06 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | 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 Tacoma to Bakersfield
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 993 miles from Tacoma, WA to Bakersfield, CA will cost on average $2,626 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tacoma to Bakersfield move is roughly $6,308. 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 | $1,765 | 300 ft³ | 5.88 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,626 | 450 ft³ | 5.83 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,339 | 750 ft³ | 5.78 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,308 | 1100 ft³ | 5.73 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,096 | 1600 ft³ | 5.68 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,143 | 1800 ft³ | 5.63 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Bakersfield to Tacoma guide.
Compare the 5 Best Tacoma to Bakersfield Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
First Due Movers
8126 304th Ave SE
Preston, WA, 98050
About First Due Movers
First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1990914 / 865709 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 205,000 (2022) |
People Movers
11808 NE 160th St
Bothell, WA, 98011
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2023) |
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.
Tacoma vs. Bakersfield Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new city. This guide is designed to ease the transition by comparing neighborhoods between Tacoma, WA & Bakersfield, CA. By identifying comparable neighborhoods, we hope to help you find a new home that feels just right.
| Tacoma | Bakersfield | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North End | Seven Oaks | Affluent, family-friendly |
| Proctor District | Stockdale Estates | Residential with local shops |
| Old Town | Westchester | Historic, vibrant community |
| Hilltop | Laurelglen | Diverse, urban feel |
| Stadium District | Oleander Sunset | Historic homes, local appeal |
| 6th Avenue | Grand Island | Active nightlife, dining |
| South Tacoma | Silver Creek | Affordable, family-oriented |
| Central Tacoma | Rosedale | Mixed urban and residential |
| Eastside | Haggin Oaks | Spacious parks, community feel |
| Ruston | River Oaks | Boutique shops, waterfront dining |
In your exploration of Bakersfield, you'll find that neighborhoods like Seven Oaks and Stockdale Estates mirror the family-friendly atmosphere and residential charm of Tacoma's North End and Proctor District, complete with local shopping and dining options. If the historic and vibrant community of Old Town caught your heart in Tacoma, Westchester's similar heritage in Bakersfield will appeal to you with its own rich history and community events. For those who cherished the active nightlife and dining of 6th Avenue, Grand Island offers an exciting social scene with upscale offerings. Similarly, the spacious parks and community vibe of Haggin Oaks align well with the community-oriented aspect of Tacoma's Eastside, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a connected neighborhood.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Tacoma to Bakersfield
Moving can be an adventure filled with both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of Tacoma, WA to Bakersfield, CA relocation , highlighting the good and the bad to help you weigh your decision carefully.
Tacoma, WA- Colder weather
- Higher cost of living
- Less sun
Bakersfield, CA- Warmer climate
- Lower cost of living
- More sunshine
Bakersfield, CA- Drier landscape
- No ocean view
- Fewer cultural venues
Tacoma, WA- Lush greenery
- Waterfront views
- Rich arts scene
While Bakersfield may not offer the lush greenery and breathtaking waterfront views that Tacoma does, it makes up for it with a significantly warmer climate and more annual sunshine, making outdoor activities a year-round option. The cost of living in Bakersfield is also more affordable, which can be a boon for your budget. You'll find local gems like Dewar's Candy Shop well-loved for its handmade candies and ice cream, or you might spend your weekends exploring the natural beauty of Sequoia National Park just a drive away. Bakersfield's rich agriculture also contributes to a vibrant food scene, with many local restaurants serving dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Despite the fewer cultural venues, community events and vibrant local parks such as Central Park at Mill Creek offer a sense of community and leisure activities.
Tacoma vs. Bakersfield Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma & Bakersfield to show you the variety and richness of food scenes in both cities. Understanding local cuisine is essential as food plays a significant role in the culture and daily life of an area. This comparison will help you get a taste of what to expect from your new home.
| Tacoma | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Seafood Chowder | Tri-tip Steak |
| Most popular meat dish | Pacific Northwest Salmon | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Bowl | Vegan Burrito |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Tacoma and Bakersfield both share a love for tacos as the most popular street food item, their culinary scenes diverge notably in other areas. In Tacoma, seafood, particularly Pacific Northwest Salmon, and vegan options like quinoa bowls highlight the city's emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Dining at Duke's Seafood or Indochine Asian Dining Lounge showcases these preferences in picturesque settings. Meanwhile, Bakersfield's heart beats to the rhythm of hearty, meat-centric dishes such as Tri-tip Steak and Carne Asada, reflecting its agricultural heritage. Restaurants like Noriega's and Wool Growers offer authentic experiences of this rich culinary tradition. The difference in health consciousness and the abundance of food trucks between the two cities also presents a contrast in lifestyle and dining options that awaits you.
Tacoma vs. Bakersfield Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease the transition for those moving from Tacoma, WA to Bakersfield, CA, by matching up old favorites with new ones. Whether you're in the mood for a lavish dine-out or a casual meal, this guide aims to help you find your next go-to spot in Bakersfield, mirroring the diverse culinary scene of Tacoma.
| Tacoma | Bakersfield | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | Blue Elephant | Offers a fusion of pan-Asian flavors similar to Indochine's appeal. |
| The Table | Café Med | Cozy ambiance with a focus on farm-to-table dining akin to The Table. |
| WildFin American Grill | Wiki’s Wine Dive & Grill | Both celebrate American cuisine with a flair for seafood selections. |
| Over The Moon Café | 24th Street Café | Known for its comfort food and intimate setting, reminiscent of Over The Moon’s charm. |
| Moscow on the Hill | Belvedere | Offering Eastern European cuisine that echoes Moscow on the Hill's signature dishes. |
| En Rama | Tiki-Ko | Serves craft cocktails and small plates in an atmosphere that rivals En Rama. |
| Marrow Kitchen Bar | Luigi's Restaurant & Delicatessen | Both have a reputation for unique, upscale dining experiences. |
| Engine House No. 9 | Lengthwise Brewing Company | Offers a selection of craft beers and hearty meals similar to Engine House No. 9. |
| Dirty Oscar's Annex | Temblor Brewing Company | Both have a lively atmosphere with innovative American cuisine. |
| Asado | La Costa Mariscos | Both specialize in bold, Latin flavors with a focus on grilled meats and seafood. |
For those who cherished the eclectic and immersive dining experience at Indochine Asian Dining Lounge in Tacoma, finding a similar gastronomic adventure in Bakersfield is possible at Blue Elephant. It offers a delightful array of pan-Asian cuisine that captures the essence of Indochine's menu. Meanwhile, fans of the laid-back yet sophisticated vibe at Engine House No. 9 will feel right at home at Lengthwise Brewing Company, where the combination of craft brews and hearty, comforting meals forge a parallel dining experience. Both establishments anchor their menus in high-quality, local ingredients, ensuring that each meal is not just consumed but savored. This comparison guide is just the beginning of your culinary exploration, helping to bridge the familiarity of Tacoma with the new flavors of Bakersfield.
Ready to start your move?
Tacoma vs. Bakersfield Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly shapes your experience when moving, making it crucial to understand how Tacoma, WA and Bakersfield, CA stack up against each other. This comparison aims to provide a clear picture of housing aspects , tailoring your expectations for a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Tacoma | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Proximity to parks | Spacious backyards, Solar panels |
Exploring the differences between Tacoma and Bakersfield uncovers a tale of two distinct lifestyles and housing markets. Tacoma's higher median home price reflects its proximity to Seattle and the demand for its charming Craftsman homes with stunning views. Renters might find Tacoma slightly pricier, though the urban lifestyle score suggests a livelier setting. In contrast, Bakersfield's affordability is a highlight, particularly attractive for those favoring spacious ranch-style homes, complete with solar panels and expansive backyards—a nod to California's sunny disposition. Despite lower walkability scores, Bakersfield's slightly higher bikeability rating opens up eco-friendly commuting options, reflecting the city’s laid-back yet vibrant essence.
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.
Tacoma vs. Bakersfield Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Tacoma, WA, to Bakersfield, CA, understanding the weather differences is crucial for adapting to your new environment. This comparison will highlight the climate variations to help you prepare for weather patterns in both Tacoma and Bakersfield.
Tacoma, WA
Bakersfield, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
Bakersfield, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
Bakersfield, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tacoma, WA
Bakersfield, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Tacoma | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Variable/Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Earthquakes, Droughts |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Comparing Tacoma to Bakersfield shows drastic climate differences. The average summer high in Bakersfield is considerably hotter than in Tacoma, which might require an adjustment period. With substantially more days of sunshine a year, Bakersfield offers an extended period of outdoor activities but also has higher UV exposure, increasing the importance of sun protection. Bakersfield's lower annual rainfall and absence of snow reflect its desert-like conditions as opposed to Tacoma's more temperate climate. Both cities experience earthquakes, but their other natural disaster risks differ, highlighting the need for awareness and preparation unique to each area.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tacoma to Bakersfield
When relocating from Tacoma, WA to Bakersfield, CA, it's essential to gauge the financial landscape of your new home. Comparing the cost of living, taxes, and economic opportunities can help you prepare for the transition and manage your finances effectively.
| Comparison | Tacoma | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $77,141 | $66,666 |
| Cost of Living Index | 109.5 | 103.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 13.3 (max) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.08 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1 | 7.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing | Agriculture, Oil, Renewable Energy |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate-to-Low |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Significant |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Widespread |
Considering a move from Tacoma to Bakersfield brings financial shifts into focus. Noticeably, you'll transition from a zero state income tax environment to California's high tax rate, peaking at 13.3% for higher earners. This change may be somewhat offset by Bakersfield's lower cost of living and sales tax rate, compared to Tacoma. Moreover, each city's economy leans on different sectors, offering you unique job opportunities. While Tacoma's economy is bolstered by healthcare and education, Bakersfield thrives on agriculture, oil, and the emerging renewable energy market. These economic landscapes influence the local affordability and employment prospects, shaping your financial experience in your new locale.
Tacoma vs. Bakersfield Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Tacoma, WA to Bakersfield, CA, understanding the local dynamics is crucial for a smooth transition. This quick comparison offers a snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Tacoma & Bakersfield , providing insight into the communities you'll be joining or leaving behind.
| Tacoma | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Liberal | Lean Conservative |
| Local Politics | Democratic Dominance | Republican Strength |
| Religion | Mix of Christian and Non-religious | Strong Christian Community |
In Tacoma, the political climate tends to lean more liberal, with Democrats holding a strong influence in local politics. This is in stark contrast to Bakersfield, where conservative views are more prevalent and the Republican Party has significant strength. Additionally, while Tacoma boasts a diverse religious landscape, including a blend of Christian denominations and non-religious residents, Bakersfield is known for its strong Christian community, with several local churches playing pivotal roles in community activities and social services. Understanding these nuances can help you better acclimate to your new home and engage with your community.
Tacoma vs. Bakersfield Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide provides a detailed comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tacoma, WA, and Bakersfield, CA, ensuring you better understand what your daily commute and overall traffic experience would be like in each city.
| Comparison | Tacoma | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly, with adjustments | Challenging |
Tacoma and Bakersfield present different challenges and conveniences when it comes to commuting. In Tacoma, the average commute time is slightly longer, and you'll face more traffic congestion compared to Bakersfield. However, Tacoma offers better public transit options, making it feasible, though not necessarily convenient, to get by without a car. Bakersfield’s shorter commute times and less congestion can be attractive, but the city’s lower public transit availability makes it more challenging to live without personal transportation. This summary should help you weigh your transportation options and expectations as you plan your move.
Additional Resources
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Popular Tacoma to California Routes
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