Moving from Bakersfield to Sacramento, CA
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Quick answer: Moving from Bakersfield to Sacramento costs $361–$7,623, depending on home size and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself. Most moves on this 277-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 Bakersfield to Sacramento?
Moving from Bakersfield to Sacramento 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 277-mile move:
Moving from Bakersfield to Sacramento costs between $361 and $7,623, based on moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. The prices below break down your 277-mile move costs by type of moving service and home size.
| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Potential downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | $1,920–$5,261 | 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 | $380–$812 (around 60% less than full-service) | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load & unload everything yourself | |
| Labor-only | $116/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 Bakersfield to Sacramento?
The cost to move from Bakersfield to Sacramento ranges from $361 to $7,623, according to moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. Pricing on this 277-mile route depends on which moving service you pick and how much you're hauling:
- Full-service movers: $1,204–$7,623
- Moving containers: $1,076–$3,265
- Rental trucks: $361–$922
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 277 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 | $1,204–$4,234 | $1,076–$1,914 | $361–$639 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,920–$5,261 | $1,281–$2,430 | $380–$812 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,734–$7,623 | $1,708–$3,265 | $470–$922 |
*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 Bakersfield to Sacramento move?
Plan for a few extra fees on a Bakersfield to Sacramento 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 | $116/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 Bakersfield to Sacramento
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service mover from Bakersfield to Sacramento, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. At 277 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 Bakersfield to Sacramento. 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 277 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 Sacramento to Bakersfield guide.
How does Sacramento compare to Bakersfield?
Cost of living: Bakersfield vs. Sacramento
The cost of living in Bakersfield vs. Sacramento 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 Sacramento measures up against Bakersfield.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Bakersfield | Sacramento | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,695 | $1,899 |
| Average home cost | $345,317 | $483,739 |
| Average income (per capita) | $77,397 | $83,753 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,493 | $2,656 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $6,940 | $6,191 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 7.7% |
| Average sales tax | 8.25% | 8.75% |
Cost-of-living data for Bakersfield and Sacramento 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 prices in Sacramento are 12% higher than in Bakersfield. A renter relocating without a salary increase will see roughly 12% more of monthly income absorbed by housing.
- Home prices in Sacramento are 40% higher than Bakersfield. Existing equity from a Bakersfield sale may not stretch as far in the Sacramento market.
- Average income in Sacramento runs 8% higher than Bakersfield. Job seekers can target a salary lift on a same-role move.
- Cost of living for one person is 7% higher in Sacramento than Bakersfield. Budget the gap into your monthly plan rather than absorbing it through reduced savings.
- Living expenses for a family of 4 in Sacramento are 11% lower than Bakersfield. The gap is meaningful enough to fund a meaningful lifestyle upgrade post-move.
- Unemployment in Sacramento runs 31% higher than Bakersfield. Lock in a role before relocating, especially if you depend on a single income.
- Sales taxes in Sacramento are 6% higher than Bakersfield. Annual spending on taxable goods will land meaningfully higher.
If you typically live on $3,000 a month in Bakersfield, you'll need about $3,210 to enjoy a similar lifestyle in Sacramento.
How life is different in Bakersfield vs. Sacramento
A look at how life in Sacramento measures up to Bakersfield 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.
| Bakersfield | Sacramento | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 909,235 | 524,943 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51-46 | Democratic 51-46 |
| Summer high | 97ºF | 93ºF |
| Winter low | 38ºF | 39ºF |
| Annual rain | 7" | 20" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 0" |
| Crime index | 58.49 | 49.21 |
- Sacramento is roughly 42% smaller in size than Bakersfield. The smaller scale typically translates to lower density, lower cost, and a tighter local job market.
- In the last presidential election, Sacramento voted Democratic, while Bakersfield leaned Republican.
- Summer highs in Sacramento (93°F) match Bakersfield (97°F). No wardrobe or cooling-cost adjustment required.
- Winter lows are comparable in Bakersfield (38°F) and Sacramento (39°F). Heating loads stay level.
- Annual rainfall in Sacramento is 20 inches, vs. 7 inches in Bakersfield. Wet-weather gear, indoor entertainment, and home maintenance all become more relevant.
- Annual snowfall in Bakersfield and Sacramento is effectively zero. No winter weather budget or gear adjustments required.
- Crime index in Sacramento (49.21) runs lower than Bakersfield (58.49). The safety profile typically translates to insurance and housing flexibility.
Things to do in Sacramento
Adventure, cultural attractions, live sports, and college campuses define Sacramento's lifestyle profile. The categories below highlight where to start.
Museums in Sacramento
- California State Railroad Museum
- Crocker Art Museum
- California State Capitol Museum
- Old Sacramento
- California Automobile Museum
Parks in Sacramento
- Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park
- Capitol Park
- William Land Park
- McKinley Park
- American River Parkway
Sports teams in Sacramento
- Sacramento Kings (NBA)
- Sacramento Republic FC (USL Championship)
- Sacramento River Cats (Triple-A West)
Universities in Sacramento
- California State University-Sacramento
- Epic Bible College
- MTI College
- Asher College
- Carrington College-Sacramento
Final verdict: best movers from Bakersfield to Sacramento
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top recommendation for full-service moves from Bakersfield to Sacramento, 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 $361–$7,623 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 Bakersfield to Sacramento
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Bakersfield to Sacramento?
A full-service move from Bakersfield to Sacramento typically costs $1,055–$3,440 for a few items or a small bedroom. For a 2–3 bedroom home, expect to pay $1,920–$5,261. For a 4-bedroom home or larger, prices fall between $2,734 and $7,623 on the same route.
How much are moving container companies from Bakersfield to Sacramento?
Moving containers from Bakersfield to Sacramento have typical costs as follows. For a studio or 1-bedroom, prices fall between $721 and $1,772. For a 2–3 bedroom home, expect to pay $1,281–$2,430. For 4–5 bedroom homes, moves typically range from $1,708 to $3,265.
How much is a moving truck from Bakersfield to Sacramento?
A rental moving truck from Bakersfield to Sacramento costs $372–$699 for a studio or 1-bedroom move. A 2–3 bedroom move costs $380–$812. A 4-bedroom or larger move costs $470–$922.
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 Bakersfield-to-Sacramento movers?
Lock in your movers for a Bakersfield to Sacramento 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 Sacramento?
The cheapest time of year to move to Sacramento 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.
