Bakersfield, CA to Raleigh, NC Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Bakersfield to Raleigh typically costs $4,400–$8,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,568 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Bakersfield to Raleigh
Moving from Bakersfield, CA to Raleigh, NC typically costs $4,400–$8,900 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,568-mile move from Bakersfield to Raleigh, 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
- AB Moving recently quoted $4,108 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $3,456 for a 3 bedroom using a moving container.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $4,108 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 08, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 06, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 05, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 01, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 27, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 14, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 01, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Dec 08, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Nov 29, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Nov 27, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Bakersfield to Raleigh
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Bakersfield to Raleigh might be as low as $2,800, while a four-bedroom could reach $13,800.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Bakersfield.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,500 to $4,800 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Raleigh, NC to Bakersfield, CA guide.
Best Bakersfield to Raleigh movers by type
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Best professional movers from Bakersfield to Raleigh
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Bakersfield to Raleigh, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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→NC movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 372 California movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Bakersfield to Raleigh
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Raleigh runs about 144% higher for singles and -12% higher for families than Bakersfield.
Singles spend around $6,077 in Raleigh versus $2,493 in Bakersfield; families pay $6,077 compared with $6,940.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Bakersfield | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,850 | $1,820 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,450 | $3,000 |
| Average home value | $389,732 | $431,795 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,827 | $2,572 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,493 | $6,077 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,940 | $6,077 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 4.3% |
| Sales tax | 8.25% | 7.25% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.5% |
- Switching from Bakersfield to Raleigh won't strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 11% higher in Raleigh than in Bakersfield.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 97% lower in Raleigh than in Bakersfield.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Raleigh, as the cost of living for a single person in Raleigh is 144% greater than in Bakersfield. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- Relocating to Raleigh could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 12% lower than in Bakersfield.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 27% lower than Bakersfield, Raleigh boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 12% lower in Raleigh than Bakersfield, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 66% lower in North Carolina than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Bakersfield and Raleigh, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Bakersfield | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $340.00 | $190.88 |
| Cell phone plan | $53.67 | $64.40 |
| Dozen eggs | $2.95 | $4.71 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.81 | $4.12 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $19.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $67.50 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $36.50 | $40.18 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Bakersfield than in Raleigh.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Bakersfield than in Raleigh.
- Eggs are less expensive in Bakersfield than in Raleigh.
- Bread costs less in Bakersfield than in Raleigh.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Bakersfield than in Raleigh.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Bakersfield than in Raleigh.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Bakersfield than in Raleigh.
How life is different in Bakersfield vs. Raleigh
| Bakersfield | Raleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 909,235 | 467,665 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 37 | 31 |
| Bike friendliness score | 44 | 39 |
| Crime index | 58.49 | 38.87 |
| Safety index | 41.51 | 60.13 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Raleigh's population is about 49% less than Bakersfield.
- Raleigh's public transportation score is within about 5% of Bakersfield, making them very similar.
- Raleigh is less walkable than Bakersfield with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Bakersfield's 37 out of 100.
- Raleigh has a bike-friendliness score of 39 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Bakersfield, which has a score of 44.
- Raleigh's crime rate is lower than Bakersfield with a score of 38.87 compared to Bakersfield's 58.49. This means that Raleigh neighborhoods are safer than 38.87% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Bakersfield neighborhoods are safer than 58.49%.
- Raleigh is considered to be safer than Bakersfield with a safety index of 60.13 vs Bakersfield's 41.51.
- Air quality in Raleigh is Moderate, and in Bakersfield it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Bakersfield to Raleigh move
- 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: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a North Carolina moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in North Carolina, 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 Raleigh 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. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Raleigh
Ready to relocate to The City of Oaks? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Raleigh.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Central Raleigh
- Five Points
- North Raleigh
- Northwest Raleigh
- West Raleigh
Best neighborhoods for families
- Oakwood
- Cameron Village
- Boylan Heights
- Hayes Barton
- North Hills
- Mordecai
- South Park
- Brier Creek
- Stonehenge
- Six Forks
Things to do in Raleigh
Now that you've made the move to North Carolina, it's the perfect time to explore Raleigh. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Raleigh include museums and art centers like the African American Cultural Complex, Contemporary Art Museum of Raleigh, Gregg Museum of Art & Design at North Carolina State University, and Haywood Hall House & Gardens.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Pullen Park, William B. Umstead State Park, Yates Mill County Park, and JC Raulston Arboretum, 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 Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)North Carolina FC (USL)North Carolina Courage (NWSL)Carolina Mudcats (MiLB) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Bakersfield to Raleigh?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Bakersfield to Raleigh. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Bakersfield.
When is the cheapest time to move from Bakersfield to Raleigh?
With many people choosing to move from Bakersfield to Raleigh in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Bakersfield to Raleigh take?
Covering 2,568 miles, the move from Bakersfield, CA to Raleigh, NC typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Bakersfield movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Raleigh can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Bakersfield can handle specialty items for my move to Raleigh?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Bakersfield, 2 movers can handle pianos. 1 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 298 piano movers and 229 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
