Bakersfield, CA to Mesa, AZ Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Bakersfield to Mesa typically costs $2,400–$6,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 500 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Bakersfield to Mesa
Moving from Bakersfield, CA to Mesa, AZ typically costs $2,400–$6,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 500-mile move from Bakersfield to Mesa, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $2,142 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $4,756 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $2,891 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 12, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 10, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 04, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Feb 01, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 28, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 15, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 30, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 22, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 17, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 09, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Bakersfield to Mesa move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,400 for a one-bedroom, or up to $8,500 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Bakersfield.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $500 to $1,200, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Mesa, AZ to Bakersfield, CA guide.
Best Bakersfield to Mesa movers by type
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Local
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Bakersfield to Mesa
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Bakersfield to Mesa much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best CA→AZ movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 372 California movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Bakersfield to Mesa
Many movers find Mesa easier on the wallet than Bakersfield - roughly 3% less for singles and 20% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,416 for one person in Mesa versus $2,493 in Bakersfield. For a family of four, it's $5,566 compared with $6,940.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Bakersfield | Mesa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,850 | $1,734 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,450 | $2,500 |
| Average home value | $389,732 | $432,892 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,827 | $64,524 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,493 | $2,416 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,940 | $5,566 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 6.1% |
| Sales tax | 8.25% | 8.3% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 2.5% |
- Moving to Mesa from Bakersfield won't change your financial plan too much, as rent costs are comparable.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Mesa are about 11% higher than those in Bakersfield.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 13% lower in Mesa compared to Bakersfield.
- Since the cost of living for a single person in both Mesa and Bakersfield is within a 5% difference, your expenses will be quite similar.
- A move to Mesa can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 20% less than what it costs in Bakersfield.
- With Mesa and Bakersfield having similar unemployment rates, deviating by approximately 5%, job opportunities and market competitiveness remain consistent.
- Sales taxes hold steady between Mesa and Bakersfield (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
- Income taxes in Arizona are 81% below those in California. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Bakersfield and Mesa:
| Living Expense | Bakersfield | Mesa |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $340.00 | $256.54 |
| Cell phone plan | $53.67 | $70.53 |
| Dozen eggs | $2.95 | $4.69 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.81 | $4.18 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $67.50 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $36.50 | $42.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Bakersfield than in Mesa.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Bakersfield than in Mesa.
- Eggs are less expensive in Bakersfield than in Mesa.
- Bread costs less in Bakersfield than in Mesa.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Bakersfield than in Mesa.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Bakersfield than in Mesa.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Bakersfield than in Mesa.
How life is different in Bakersfield vs. Mesa
| Bakersfield | Mesa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 909,235 | 504,258 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 37 | 38 |
| Bike friendliness score | 44 | 60 |
| Crime index | 58.49 | 44.67 |
| Safety index | 41.51 | 55.33 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Mesa's population is about 45% less than Bakersfield.
- Mesa's public transportation score is within about 5% of Bakersfield, making them very similar.
- Mesa and Bakersfield are similarly walkable.
- With a score of 60 out of 100, Mesa is more bike-friendly than Bakersfield, which has a score of 44 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Mesa's crime rate is lower than Bakersfield with a score of 44.67 compared to Bakersfield's 58.49. This means that Mesa neighborhoods are safer than 44.67% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Bakersfield neighborhoods are safer than 58.49%.
- Mesa is considered to be safer than Bakersfield with a safety index of 55.33 vs Bakersfield's 41.51.
- Air quality in Mesa is Good, and in Bakersfield it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Bakersfield to Mesa move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: Though Arizona is largely an “unregulated” state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Arizona’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Arizona does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Mesa. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectiveness—offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items' full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Mesa
Planning your move to ? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Mesa.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Central
- Southwest
- Northwest
- Northeast
- West Central
Best neighborhoods for families
- Red Mountain Ranch
- Superstition Springs
- Eastmark
- Dobson Ranch
- Alta Mesa
Things to do in Mesa
After settling into your new Arizona home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Mesa has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Mesa features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Commemorative Air Force Museum, Arizona Museum of Natural History, Mesa Arts Center, and i.d.e.a. Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, Freestone Park, Riverview Park, and Pioneer Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Bakersfield to Mesa?
Planning your move from Bakersfield to Mesa? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Bakersfield.
When is the cheapest time to move from Bakersfield to Mesa?
Because most people are moving from Bakersfield to Mesa in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Bakersfield to Mesa take?
The 500-mile journey from Bakersfield, CA to Mesa, AZ, typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Bakersfield offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Mesa.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Bakersfield?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Bakersfield, 2 movers can manage piano relocations. 1 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 298 piano movers and 229 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
