Moving from Stockton to Bakersfield, CA
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Quick answer: Moving from Stockton to Bakersfield costs between $336 to $6,913 depending on your home's size and if you hire a moving company or move yourself, based on data from our moving cost calculator.
Most moves on this 233-mile route within California take 1 to 2 days from packing to delivery.
Compare moving options from Stockton to Bakersfield
The 4 most common types of movers when moving from Stockton to Bakersfield are full-service movers, labor-only movers, moving containers, and rental trucks.
- Full-service movers handle everything from packing in Stockton to driving and unloading in Bakersfield, but cost the most
- Labor-only services work well if you only want a crew for the heavy lifting
- Moving containers balance price and effort, but you handle loading or hire labor separately
- Rental trucks are the cheapest if you're comfortable driving 233 miles and require your full effort or hiring labor
| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Main downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | Safeway Moving | $1,782 - $5,123 | Movers handle loading, driving, and unloading | Highest price of all options |
| Moving container | PODS | $1,219 - $2,414 | Pack and load on your own schedule | You handle all loading and unloading |
| Rental truck | Budget Truck Rental | $342 - $650 | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load, and unload everything yourself |
| Labor-only | MidCal Moving and Storage Company | $100/hr | Need a loading crew and already have a truck | You arrange your own transport between cities |
How much does it cost to move from Stockton to Bakersfield?
It costs between $336 to $6,913 to move from Stockton to Bakersfield. The prices below break down your 233-mile move costs by type of moving service and home size.
- Full service movers: $1,134 - $6,913
- Moving containers: $955 - $3,066
- Rental trucks: $336 - $834
| Home size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,134 - $4,401 | $955 - $1,656 | $336 - $560 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $1,782 - $5,123 | $1,219 - $2,414 | $342 - $650 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,413 - $6,913 | $1,637 - $3,066 | $435 - $834 |
Extra costs to budget for
Most quotes won't include these line items by default — confirm each one with your mover or rental company before booking.
| Extra cost | Typical range | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Packing service | $375 - $3,125+ | Full-service movers |
| Loading labor | $100/hr per mover | Moving containers, rental trucks |
| Storage | About $120/month | Moving containers |
| Shuttle fee | $250 - $1,000 | Full-service movers |
| Equipment rental | $63 - $250 | Rental trucks |
| Added protection | 1% - 2% of declared value | All move types |
Best movers from Stockton to Bakersfield
At 233 miles, your Stockton to Bakersfield move sits in a range where both national and local companies can handle it well, but they serve different needs. We've listed our top pick from each category below.
Best movers for larger homes and complex logistics
Safeway Moving is our top-rated full-service pick for larger moves from Stockton to Bakersfield. With 14 years in the moving industry and service throughout California, they're a strong fit for intrastate moves of 233 miles.
Best movers for smaller homes and apartment moves
Grace Moving Company is the best mover for smaller homes and apartments from Stockton to Bakersfield. They've been in business since 1999 (27 years of experience) and 91.6% of their 467 verified reviews are positive.
More California moving resources
Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Bakersfield to Stockton guide.
Considerations when moving from Stockton to Bakersfield
Cost of living: Stockton vs. Bakersfield
When weighing the cost of living in Stockton versus Bakersfield, there's more to consider than just housing costs. Let’s dive into important financial factors like rent, home prices, average income, daily expenses, and job market trends, so you can see how life in Bakersfield really compares to Stockton.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Stockton | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,775 | $1,695 |
| Average home cost | $410,790 | $345,317 |
| Average income (per capita) | $76,851 | $77,397 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $3,767 | $2,493 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $6,810 | $6,940 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.3% | 5.9% |
| Average Sales Tax | 9.0% | 8.25% |
- Rent prices in Bakersfield are similar to those in Stockton, so your housing budget won’t change much, making your move easier on your wallet.
- Home prices in Bakersfield are 16% lower than in Stockton. That means you’ll have an easier time getting into the housing market, scoring a more affordable mortgage, and having extra cash left over for what matters most.
- Income levels in Stockton and Bakersfield are quite similar, so you can expect steady earning potential and less financial stress in your new city.
- Living in Bakersfield is 34% cheaper for one person compared to Stockton. That means more money left in your pocket—to save, spend, or invest however you like.
- Expect your cost of living in Bakersfield to be about the same as it was in Stockton, so you shouldn’t need to adjust your budget after the move.
- Unemployment in Bakersfield is 43% lower than in Stockton. That means you’re headed towards a healthier job market, more career opportunities, and better economic stability in your new home.
- Sales taxes are 8% lower in Bakersfield than in Stockton. If you have a larger family or higher consumption habits, the lower sales tax in Bakersfield can reduce your overall living expenses.
To match the lifestyle you enjoy on $3,000 in Stockton, you’d need about $1,980 in Bakersfield.
How life is different in Stockton vs. Bakersfield
Before you move, take a look at how life compares in Stockton and Bakersfield. From weather and population to cost of living, politics, and safety, these factors can all impact your daily life. Use this side-by-side comparison to find out which city fits your lifestyle and priorities best.
| Stockton | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 320,804 | 909,235 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 49.8-48.3 | Republican 51-46 |
| Summer high | 93ºF | 97ºF |
| Winter low | 38ºF | 38ºF |
| Annual rain | 17" | 7" |
| Annual snow | 0" | 0" |
| Crime index | 75.2 | 58.49 |
Bakersfield sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- Bakersfield is about 183% larger than Stockton. Moving to a bigger city means more people, new opportunities, and a vibrant cultural scene, but you’ll also face higher living costs and a faster pace. Whether that sounds exciting or overwhelming comes down to what you want in your next home.
- In the last presidential election, Bakersfield voted Republican, while Stockton voted Democratic.
- In Bakersfield and Stockton, summer highs run about the same — 97°F vs. 93°F. You can expect similar weather and expenses.
- In the coldest months, both Stockton and Bakersfield face similar winter lows—Stockton drops to 38°F, while Bakersfield falls to 38°F.
- Stockton usually sees more rain than Bakersfield, with about 17 inches of rainfall each year compared to Bakersfield’s 7 inches.
- Both Stockton and Bakersfield receive virtually no snowfall each year, so you won’t have to plan for winter weather in either city.
- Bakersfield offers more peace of mind than Stockton, with a lower crime index of 58.49 versus 75.2.
Things to do in Bakersfield
Looking for adventure, vibrant culture, or exciting live sports? Bakersfield has it all.
Museums in Bakersfield
- Buck Owens' Crystal Palace
- Kern County Museum
- Buena Vista Museum of Natural History
- Bakersfield Museum of Art
Parks in Bakersfield
- The Park at River Walk
- Peacocks at Hart Park
Sports teams in Bakersfield
- Bakersfield Condors (AHL)
Universities in Bakersfield
- California State University, Bakersfield
- Bakersfield College
FAQ
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Stockton to Bakersfield?
If you’re planning to hire a moving company to get your belongings from Stockton to Bakersfield, here’s what you can expect: Moving just a few items or a small bedroom typically costs between $966 and $3,480. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices generally range from $1,782 up to $5,123. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom home or larger, expect to pay anywhere from $2,413 to $6,913 for the whole move.
How much are moving container companies from Stockton to Bakersfield?
Moving containers from Stockton to Bakersfield will cost you $720 to $1,612 for a studio or one-bedroom home. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,219 to $2,414. A larger home will cost $1,637 to $3,066.
How much is a moving truck from Stockton to Bakersfield?
If you’re looking to save money, renting a moving truck is typically your most budget-friendly choice. Just keep in mind, you’ll be handling all the driving and heavy lifting yourself. We’ve factored estimated fuel costs into these price estimates, so you know what to expect.
Renting a truck to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment typically ranges from $333 to $577. If you’re moving a bigger place, expect to pay between $342 and $650. For a four-bedroom home or larger going from Stockton to Bakersfield, costs usually fall between $435 and $834.
How far in advance should I book Stockton-to-Bakersfield movers?
To make your move from Stockton to Bakersfield as easy as possible, try locking in your movers at least two months ahead of time. If you’re planning to move during the busy summer season, aim for three months in advance. Booking early gives you a better shot at your ideal moving date and can land you better rates. Some companies even offer early-bird discounts when you reserve ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Bakersfield?
For the best deals on your move to Bakersfield, aim for a date between early October and late April. Skipping the busy May-to-September rush not only saves you money, but also helps you lock in better rates and more flexible scheduling.
