Best Charleston to Bakersfield Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Bakersfield and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,373 mile move from West Virginia to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 7 Charleston 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 Ready Set 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 Charleston 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 Charleston to Bakersfield Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Excel Relocation Systems | 8.18 | 8.5 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc. | 8.12 | 8.45 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 7.70 | 7.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to Bakersfield
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,373 miles from Charleston, WV to Bakersfield, CA will cost on average $3,799 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Bakersfield move is roughly $9,177. 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 | $2,548 | 300 ft³ | 8.49 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,799 | 450 ft³ | 8.44 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,295 | 750 ft³ | 8.39 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,177 | 1100 ft³ | 8.34 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,268 | 1600 ft³ | 8.29 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,837 | 1800 ft³ | 8.24 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Bakersfield to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Bakersfield Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Ready Set Movers
454 Deanna Ln
Charleston, SC, 29492
About Ready Set Movers
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Ready Set Movers provides relocation services for both local and long-distance moves. Since...
Services
- Local and interstate moves
- Full-service moving
- Accurate and detailed estimates
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2150739 / 756179 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
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) |
Central Van Lines
37 Jacobson Dr
Poca, WV, 25159
About Central Van Lines
Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where...
Services
- Local and long-distance moving services
- Residential moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1243887 / 11266 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 44 |
| Registered Drivers | 35 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 487,000 (2019) |
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) |
Two Men and a Truck
2410 Air Park Rd
North Charleston, SC, 29406
About Two Men and a Truck
Since 1997, Two Men and a Truck has been the go-to moving company for families and businesses in North Charleston, SC....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Junk Removal
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3402685 / 1095537 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (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.
Charleston vs. Bakersfield Neighborhood Comparison
Exploring a new city can be daunting, but using your current location as a baseline can ease the transition. This guide helps you make a smooth move from Charleston, WV & Bakersfield, CA , comparing their local neighborhoods.
| Charleston | Bakersfield | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East End | Downtown | Vibrant arts scene |
| South Hills | Olde Stockdale | Upscale, family-friendly |
| Kanawha City | Laurelglen | Convenient shopping & dining |
| North Charleston | Riviera-Westchester | Diverse cultural influences |
| West Side | Quailwood | Emerging residential area |
| South Ruffner | Polo Grounds | Quiet suburbia |
| Edgewood | Seven Oaks | Historic charm |
| Fort Hill | Bakersfield Country Club | Elevated living |
If you enjoy the vibrant arts scene of Charleston's East End, where local eateries and shops like Charlie's Café and Art Emporium flourish, you'll feel at home in Bakersfield's Downtown. For those who appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere and green spaces of South Hills, the upscale neighborhood of Olde Stockdale offers a similar environment, complete with golf courses and parklands. Meanwhile, the historic allure of Edgewood, known for its traditional architecture and community festivals, can be found in Bakersfield's Seven Oaks, where the charm of the past meets modern-day comfort.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Bakersfield
This guide provides an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Charleston, WV to Bakersfield, CA. The following charts aim to highlight the key differences you'll encounter, helping you make an informed decision about your move.
Charleston, WV- Limited job market
- Harsh winters
- Fewer entertainment options
- Limited air travel
- Higher humidity
Bakersfield, CA- Thriving job opportunities
- Mild winters
- Vibrant entertainment scene
- Major airport access
- Dry climate
Bakersfield, CA- Higher living costs
- Poor air quality
- Spread-out city
- Fewer historical sites
- More urbanized
Charleston, WV- Lower cost of living
- Better air quality
- Cozy community
- Historical sites
- Beautiful landscapes
While Bakersfield provides a thriving job market and mild winters, you may miss the lower cost of living and clean air of Charleston. You will enjoy exploring Bakersfield's vibrant entertainment options like the Rabobank Arena and downtown restaurants such as Noriega Hotel. However, adjusting to the higher living costs may take some time. For those who appreciate a more urban environment, Bakersfield offers bustling areas like The Marketplace, although the proximity to neighborhood parks such as Truxtun Park can help you stay connected to nature amid the urban sprawl.
Charleston vs. Bakersfield Food Guide
Food is a vital reflection of local culture and lifestyle, offering you a taste of life in your new home. Here, we'll provide a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Bakersfield to better inform you of the culinary landscape as you make your move.
| Charleston | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Hot Dogs with Coleslaw | Basque Lamb Stew |
| Most popular meat dish | Venison | Tri-Tip |
| Most popular street food item | Pepperoni Rolls | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Lentil Soup | Grilled Veggie Wraps |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you acclimate to Bakersfield, you'll find a distinct culinary heritage centered around hearty Basque traditions. Iconic dishes like the Basque Lamb Stew are common in neighborhoods such as Old Town Kern, home to the renowned Wool Growers Restaurant. Bakersfield’s ample food trucks elevate street food with options like delicious street tacos found throughout the downtown area. The city is also gaining reputation for its eclectic dining scene, which, although not as vegan-centric as some regions, provides diverse options like grilled veggie wraps, particularly in the arts district.
Charleston vs. Bakersfield Restaurant Comparison
Food is a crucial element in transforming a new place into your home. By comparing top restaurants in Charleston to their counterparts in Bakersfield, this guide aims to assist you in discovering your new favorite eateries based on your current hometown's culinary gems.
| Charleston | Bakersfield | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Fazio's | Luigi's | Known for its traditional Italian fare and warm atmosphere. |
| Bluegrass Kitchen | 24th Street Cafe | Celebrated for locally sourced ingredients and classic comfort dishes. |
| Tricky Fish | Sushi Moon | Offers a unique blend of fresh seafood with a creative twist. |
| Taylor Books Café | Covenant Coffee | Combines a love for books and locally roasted coffee. |
| Pies & Pints | Slice of Italy | A favorite for pizza enthusiasts craving artisanal pies. |
| Soho's | Café Sienna | Boasts a modern take on classic international cuisine. |
| Bricks & Barrels | Uricchio's Trattoria | Known for its romantic ambiance and fine dining experience. |
| Dem 2 Brothers & a Grill | Salty's BBQ | Renowned for its rich barbecue flavors and Southern-style hospitality. |
| Adelphia Sports Bar & Grille | Bootleggers Craft Pub & Eatery | Loved for its lively atmosphere and craft beverage selection. |
| The Chop House | KC Steakhouse | Offers a premium steakhouse experience with a touch of luxury. |
Relocating your culinary preferences to a new city can be daunting, but Bakersfield offers plenty of options that mirror the beloved flavors of Charleston. At Luigi's, you'll find the comforting, timeless Italian cuisine reminiscent of Charleston's Fazio's. For those who appreciate locally sourced dishes, 24th Street Cafe rivals Bluegrass Kitchen with its dedication to fresh ingredients and heartwarming meals. If your palate leans towards bold flavors, explore Salty's BBQ, where the barbecue craft matches the rich, mouthwatering offerings from Dem 2 Brothers & a Grill. Embrace the change and look forward to discovering these culinary treasures that match your taste and fuel your journey across the states.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Bakersfield Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most crucial aspects of a move. Understanding how Charleston and Bakersfield compare in terms of housing can aid in making informed decisions. Consider aspects like cost , architecture , and walkability to gauge living conditions in both cities.
| Comparison | Charleston | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Spanish Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Porch, Fireplace | Swimming Pool, Central Air |
When examining housing costs, Bakersfield exhibits a notably higher median home price compared to Charleston, which may significantly impact your overall budget planning. The rental market also shows a similar pattern, with monthly rents being more affordable in Charleston. Architectural styles are distinct in each city, with Charleston's homes often showcasing Colonial Revival aesthetics, contrasting with the Spanish Colonial style commonly found in Bakersfield. While Charleston offers more walkable neighborhoods, both cities score similarly on bikeability, providing options for sustainable commuting. Unique listings in Charleston frequently highlight charming features like porches, while Bakersfield homes are more likely to advertise modern amenities like swimming pools.
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.
Charleston vs. Bakersfield Weather Considerations
Understanding the weather differences between Charleston, WV and Bakersfield, CA is crucial when you're moving. It influences lifestyle changes, wardrobe adjustments, and even health considerations. This guide provides a comparison of climate characteristics to help anticipate the adjustments you'll need to make.
Charleston, WV
Bakersfield, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Bakersfield, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Bakersfield, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, WV
Bakersfield, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Floods | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Charleston to Bakersfield means adjusting to significantly more sunshine and a much drier climate. In Bakersfield, you’ll experience hotter summers and milder winters compared to Charleston. The reduced humidity in Bakersfield may feel more comfortable to some, but the air quality tends to be poorer, which can affect those with respiratory issues. While Charleston's weather includes a wetter climate with substantial snowfall, Bakersfield's minimal rainfall could necessitate different gardening and outdoor maintenance habits.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Bakersfield
If you're planning on moving from Charleston, WV to Bakersfield, CA , understanding the financial differences between these two areas can help you prepare for the changes in adjustments to your budget such as differences in income, taxes, and cost of living .
| Comparison | Charleston | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | 47,000 | $66,666 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 103.4 |
| State Income Tax | 6.5% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.55% | 0.76% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 7.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Energy | Agriculture, Energy, Retail |
| Affluence | Modest | Moderate |
| Poverty | Prevalent | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Manageable | Visible |
The financial landscape between Charleston and Bakersfield varies significantly. Charleston offers a more affordable cost of living with an index of 75 compared to Bakersfield’s 102, which indicates a higher expense in California. However, wages in Bakersfield generally reflect this difference, with average household incomes about $17,000 higher. If you're planning to buy property, expect slightly higher property taxes in Bakersfield but also consider the larger state income tax in California. Additionally, career opportunities might diversify; while Charleston thrives in healthcare and education, Bakersfield’s economy is more tilted towards agriculture and energy.
Charleston vs. Bakersfield Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities, including a comparison of local politics. This is a comparison of the politics between Charleston & Bakersfield to help you understand what to expect when you relocate.
| Charleston | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Largely Democrat | Predominantly Republican |
| Local Politics | Charleston City Council and Mayor's Office | Kern County Board of Supervisors |
| Religion | Strong Christian presence | Diverse faith communities |
Moving from Charleston's predominantly Democrat environment to Bakersfield means a shift to a more Republican political landscape. This change may influence local policies, so getting familiar with the Kern County Board of Supervisors can be beneficial. Additionally, while Charleston maintains a strong Christian presence, Bakersfield's diverse faith communities provide a broader spectrum of religious options. You might consider visiting different local institutions such as churches, mosques, or temples in Bakersfield to get a feel for the community's cultural vibe.
Charleston vs. Bakersfield Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When contemplating a move from Charleston, WV to Bakersfield, CA, understanding the daily commute and traffic conditions can aid in a smoother transition. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Bakersfield to help familiarize you with what to expect in your daily travel routine.
| Comparison | Charleston | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 18 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Rarely | Occasionally |
While both Charleston and Bakersfield offer moderate commute times, you might find that Bakersfield tends to have slightly higher traffic congestion. Additionally, Bakersfield provides better public transit options, making it somewhat more feasible to rely on these services. However, having a car is still generally beneficial in both cities, especially in Charleston, where public transit options are limited. Despite this, exploring local areas like Charleston's historic spots or Bakersfield's vibrant cultural venues such as the Bakersfield Museum of Art can be made easier with the right transportation means.
Additional Resources
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