Virginia Beach, VA to Bakersfield, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

• If you're heading to Bakersfield from Virginia Beach, you'll find that rent is roughly 13% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
• Given that home prices are within a 5% margin between Bakersfield and Virginia Beach, sticking to your current mortgage strategy is sensible unless you’re planning for a bigger home.
• Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 10% lower in Bakersfield compared to Virginia Beach.
• Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Bakersfield. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 45% lower than in Virginia Beach.
• When relocating to Bakersfield, it's important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Bakersfield is 17% greater than in Virginia Beach.
• In Bakersfield, the unemployment rate is approximately 23% higher than in Virginia Beach, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
• Sales taxes rise by 38% in Bakersfield over Virginia Beach, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
• Income taxes are 131% higher in California than in Virginia, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.

• Bakersfield's population is about 99% greater than Virginia Beach.
• Bakersfield's public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is higher than Virginia Beach's score of 3.
• Bakersfield is more walkable than Virginia Beach with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Virginia Beach's 33 out of 100.
• Both Bakersfield and Virginia Beach have similar bike-friendliness scores (42 vs 44), meaning Bakersfield is about as safe for cyclists as Virginia Beach. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
• Bakersfield's crime rate is higher than Virginia Beach with a score of 58.49 compared to Virginia Beach's 42.0. This means that Bakersfield neighborhoods are safer than 58.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Virginia Beach neighborhoods are safer than 42.0%.
• Bakersfield is considered to be less safe than Virginia Beach with a score of 41.51 vs Virginia Beach's 58.0.
• Air quality in Bakersfield is Good, and in Virginia Beach it's Good.

• HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
• Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
• Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
• State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
• State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: California doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
• Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Bakersfield. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
• Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Downtown Bakersfield
• The Oaks
• Westchester
• Laurelglen
• Belsera

Best neighborhoods for families

• Seven Oaks
• Northwest Bakersfield
• Southwest Bakersfield
• Olde Stockdale
• Haggin Oaks

Things to do in Bakersfield

Once you're settled into your new home in California, it's time to get out and discover what Bakersfield has to offer. No matter your interests, there's something for everyone here:

• Arts and culture: You'll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Bakersfield, such as the Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, Kern County Museum, Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, and Bakersfield Museum of Art.
• Outdoor recreation: The city's The Park at River Walk and Peacocks at Hart Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
• Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Bakersfield Condors (AHL) game.