($1,213) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Bakersfield, CA

1. New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
2. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
3. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Bakersfield

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Chicago to Bakersfield typically costs between $1,213 and $4,781. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,241 and $6,748 when moving from Chicago to Bakersfield. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Chicago to Bakersfield, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,194 up to $10,629.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Bakersfield

If you’re relocating from Chicago to Bakersfield, you’ll typically spend between $1,130 and $2,770 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $1,992 up to $4,142. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $2,925 and $5,705. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Bakersfield

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Chicago to Bakersfield move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.

If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,178 and $2,140. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,263 to $2,600. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,500 and $3,088.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

• Good news! When moving to Bakersfield from Chicago, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 17% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
• A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 32% higher in Bakersfield than in Chicago.
• Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Bakersfield and Chicago, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
• Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Bakersfield. The cost of living for a single person is 32% less compared to Chicago.
• Relocating to Bakersfield could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 25% lower than in Chicago.
• With an unemployment rate approximately 34% lower than Chicago, Bakersfield boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
• Sales taxes are 20% lower in Bakersfield than Chicago, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
• Income taxes are 169% higher in California than in Illinois. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

• Bakersfield’s population is about 67% less than Chicago.
• Bakersfield’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
• Bakersfield is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 out of 100.
• Bakersfield has a bike-friendliness score of 44 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
• Bakersfield’s crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 58.49 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Bakersfield neighborhoods are safer than 58.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Bakersfield is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 41.51 vs Chicago’s 33.87.
• Air quality in Bakersfield is Good, and in Chicago it’s Good.

• HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
• Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
• 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
• Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Bakersfield without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

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

Now that you’ve made the move to California, it’s the perfect time to explore Bakersfield. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

• Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Bakersfield include museums and art centers like the Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, Kern County Museum, Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, and Bakersfield Museum of Art.
• Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate The Park at River Walk and Peacocks at Hart Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
• Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Bakersfield Condors (AHL) game.