Moving from Sacramento to Bakersfield, CA
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Quick answer: Moving from Sacramento to Bakersfield costs $387–$7,110, depending on home size and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself. Most moves on this 276-mile route within California take 1–4 days from packing to delivery, based on moveBuddha's analysis of 374+ California moving companies.
- Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service pick at 4.9 out of 5 stars, our best overall value mover for this route.
- Use moveBuddha's cost calculator to compare specific quotes for your move.
What are the best ways to move from Sacramento to Bakersfield?
Moving from Sacramento to Bakersfield doesn't have to mean hiring a full-service crew and paying top dollar. Whether you want movers to handle the whole job or you're up for tackling parts of it yourself, there's an option that fits.
For full-service moves, we recommend Safeway Moving (4.9/5).
Here's a closer look at each moving option for your 276-mile move:
Moving from Sacramento to Bakersfield costs between $387 and $7,110, based on moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. The prices below break down your 276-mile move costs by type of moving service and home size.
| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Potential downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | $1,939–$5,535 | Movers handle loading, driving & unloading | Highest price of all options | |
| Moving container | $1,281–$2,430 (around 30% less than full-service) | Pack & load on your own schedule | You handle all loading & unloading | |
| Rental truck | $400–$820 (around 60% less than full-service) | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load & unload everything yourself | |
| Labor-only | $130/hr | Need a loading crew & already have a truck | You arrange your own transport between cities |
Pricing data reflects moveBuddha's monthly dataset of 1,000+ live price points and 374+ California movers reviewed.
How much does it cost to move from Sacramento to Bakersfield?
The cost to move from Sacramento to Bakersfield ranges from $387 to $7,110, according to moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. Pricing on this 276-mile route depends on which moving service you pick and how much you're hauling:
- Full-service movers: $1,228–$7,110
- Moving containers: $1,076–$3,012
- Rental trucks: $387–$978
What drives the cost difference?
- Full-service moves cover packing, loading, transport, and unloading end-to-end. Professional packing on its own adds $0.15–$0.21 per pound.
- Moving containers lower the price because you handle loading and unloading while the company drives the container.
- Rental trucks come in roughly 30% cheaper than full-service, but you drive 276 miles and provide all the labor.
- Running quotes through moveBuddha's cost calculator helps movers save 30% versus their first quote.
| Home size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,228–$4,587 | $1,076–$1,823 | $387–$633 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,939–$5,535 | $1,281–$2,430 | $400–$820 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,815–$7,110 | $1,761–$3,012 | $490–$978 |
*Prices are based on moveBuddha pricing data backed by our 12 years of experience reviewing 374+ California moving companies, and are updated as of May 2026. Actual costs vary based on home size, add-on services, access or parking conditions, and timing. Use a moving cost calculator and compare quotes from at least 3 movers for the most accurate number.
What extra fees should you expect on a Sacramento to Bakersfield move?
Plan for a few extra fees on a Sacramento to Bakersfield move: professional packing, shuttle and access fees, and optional comprehensive contents protection plans. They aren't usually included in initial quotes, but together they can add 10%–25% on top of the base price.
Here's a breakdown of some of the most common added moving costs:
| Extra cost | Typical range | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Professional packing | $0.15–$0.21 per pound | Full-service movers |
| Loading labor | $130/hr per mover | Moving containers, rental trucks |
| Fuel surcharge | $100–$400, or 8–15% of transport charges | Full-service movers |
| Shuttle service | $0.08–$0.12 per pound, $200 minimum | Full-service movers |
| Access fees (stairs, elevators, long carry) | $75–$500+ | Full-service movers |
| Storage-in-transit | ~$0.50 per cubic foot ($257/month for a 1-bedroom) | Full-service movers |
| Bulky-item handling | $150–$400 per item | Full-service movers |
| Equipment rental | $50–$200 | Rental trucks |
| Added valuation coverage | 1–2% of declared value | All move types |
Source: moveBuddha pricing analysis. Bulky-item charges apply to safes, sectionals, and large appliances. Storage-in-transit assumes ~514 cubic feet for a 1-bedroom home.
Best movers from Sacramento to Bakersfield
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service mover from Sacramento to Bakersfield, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. At 276 miles, both local and national movers can handle this route well. Your best fit depends on home size, timeline, and budget.
Best movers for larger homes & complex logistics
Safeway Moving is our best overall value pick for full-service moves from Sacramento to Bakersfield. With 14 years in the moving industry, statewide service throughout California, and a 4.9 out of 5 stars moveBuddha rating, Safeway Moving handles intrastate moves of 276 miles with the logistics infrastructure most local operators can't match.
moveBuddha's top 5 full-service movers, ranked:
- Safeway Moving (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best overall value pick.
- American Van Lines (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's most experienced pick.
- North American Van Lines (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customized plans pick.
- Allied Van Lines (4.2 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best coverage pick.
- Mayzlin Relocation (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customer service pick.
More California moving resources
Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Bakersfield to Sacramento guide.
How does Bakersfield compare to Sacramento?
Cost of living: Sacramento vs. Bakersfield
The cost of living in Sacramento vs. Bakersfield is more than just housing costs. Rent, home prices, average income, everyday spending, and local job trends all shape your budget. The comparison below shows how life in Bakersfield measures up against Sacramento.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Sacramento | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,899 | $1,695 |
| Average home cost | $483,739 | $345,317 |
| Average income (per capita) | $83,753 | $77,397 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,656 | $2,493 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $6,191 | $6,940 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.7% | 5.9% |
| Average sales tax | 8.75% | 8.25% |
Cost-of-living data for Sacramento and Bakersfield comes from moveBuddha's city dataset, updated May 2026 across 374+ California cities and metros. Methodology details are available in our moving cost methodology.
- Rent in Bakersfield runs 11% cheaper than Sacramento. Consider upgrading to a larger unit or banking the savings.
- Home prices in Bakersfield are 29% lower than Sacramento. Most buyers translate the gap into bigger square footage or a faster path to ownership.
- Average income in Bakersfield is 8% lower than Sacramento. Watch your real take-home, since lower salaries don't always pair with lower expenses.
- Cost of living for one person in Bakersfield is 6% lower than Sacramento. The savings typically free up 6% of monthly take-home for savings or discretionary spending.
- Cost of living for a family of 4 moving to Bakersfield runs 12% higher than Sacramento. Confirm school, childcare, and healthcare costs in the destination ZIP code before locking the move.
- Unemployment in Bakersfield is 23% lower than Sacramento. The tighter labor market favors job seekers with leverage on salary and benefits.
- Sales taxes in Bakersfield are 6% lower than Sacramento. Households spending more on taxable categories see the most direct benefit.
If you typically live on $3,000 a month in Sacramento, you'll need about $2,820 to enjoy a similar lifestyle in Bakersfield.
How life is different in Sacramento vs. Bakersfield
A look at how life in Bakersfield measures up to Sacramento covers weather, cost of living, politics, safety, and population. The comparison below makes it easier to tell which city better fits your lifestyle and needs.
| Sacramento | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 524,943 | 909,235 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 51-46 | Republican 51-46 |
| Summer high | 93ºF | 97ºF |
| Winter low | 39ºF | 38ºF |
| Annual rain | 20" | 7" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 0" |
| Crime index | 49.21 | 58.49 |
- Bakersfield is roughly 73% larger in size than Sacramento. Bigger metros support more industry diversity and entertainment options, with the tradeoff of higher housing prices and longer commutes.
- In the last presidential election, Bakersfield voted Republican, while Sacramento leaned Democratic.
- Summer highs in Bakersfield (97°F) match Sacramento (93°F). No wardrobe or cooling-cost adjustment required.
- Winter lows are comparable in Sacramento (39°F) and Bakersfield (38°F). Heating loads stay level.
- Annual rainfall in Sacramento is 20 inches, higher than Bakersfield's 7 inches. Drier weather supports more outdoor activity and lower irrigation costs.
- Annual snowfall in Sacramento and Bakersfield is effectively zero. No winter weather budget or gear adjustments required.
- Crime index in Bakersfield (58.49) is higher than Sacramento (49.21). Factor home security, insurance, and neighborhood vetting into the relocation budget.
Things to do in Bakersfield
Adventure, cultural attractions, live sports, and college campuses define Bakersfield's lifestyle profile. The categories below highlight where to start.
Museums in Bakersfield
- Buck Owens' Crystal Palace
- Kern County Museum
- Buena Vista Museum of Natural History
- Bakersfield Museum of Art
Parks in Bakersfield
- The Park at River Walk
- Peacocks at Hart Park
Sports teams in Bakersfield
- Bakersfield Condors (AHL)
Universities in Bakersfield
- California State University, Bakersfield
- Bakersfield College
Final verdict: best movers from Sacramento to Bakersfield
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top recommendation for full-service moves from Sacramento to Bakersfield, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. With 14 years in business and statewide California service, it's the strongest choice for larger homes, complex logistics, or moves that benefit from full packing and loading service.
For shoppers prioritizing cost, a moving container or rental truck cuts the price by roughly 30% versus a full-service move. Total costs on this route range from $387–$7,110 depending on service type and home size. All recommendations reflect moveBuddha's analysis of 374+ California movers, our monthly pricing dataset of 1,000+ live price points, and 12 years of moving industry research.
FAQs about moving from Sacramento to Bakersfield
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Sacramento to Bakersfield?
A full-service move from Sacramento to Bakersfield typically costs $1,055–$3,476 for a few items or a small bedroom. For a 2–3 bedroom home, expect to pay $1,939–$5,535. For a 4-bedroom home or larger, prices fall between $2,815 and $7,110 on the same route.
How much are moving container companies from Sacramento to Bakersfield?
Moving containers from Sacramento to Bakersfield have typical costs as follows. For a studio or 1-bedroom, prices fall between $728 and $1,650. For a 2–3 bedroom home, expect to pay $1,281–$2,430. For 4–5 bedroom homes, moves typically range from $1,761 to $3,012.
How much is a moving truck from Sacramento to Bakersfield?
A rental moving truck from Sacramento to Bakersfield costs $372–$666 for a studio or 1-bedroom move. A 2–3 bedroom move costs $400–$820. A 4-bedroom or larger move costs $490–$978.
Rental trucks are the most budget-friendly choice for movers willing to handle the driving and heavy lifting. Estimated fuel costs are factored into the pricing above.
How far in advance should I book Sacramento-to-Bakersfield movers?
Lock in your movers for a Sacramento to Bakersfield move at least 2 months before your big day. For a summer move, aim for 3 months ahead, since spots fill up fast. Early booking boosts your chances of getting the date you want, and many companies offer early-bird discounts for customers who plan ahead.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Bakersfield?
The cheapest time of year to move to Bakersfield is between early October and late April. This period falls outside the moving industry's peak season (May through September), which means demand and pricing both run lower. Most U.S. moves happen between May and August, so staying outside the busy summer months saves money.
