Bakersfield, CA to Chesapeake, VA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Bakersfield to Chesapeake typically costs $4,400–$9,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,735 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Bakersfield to Chesapeake
Moving from Bakersfield, CA to Chesapeake, VA typically costs $4,400–$9,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,735-mile move from Bakersfield to Chesapeake, 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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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $5,976 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $4,474 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $2,441 for a studio apartment using a moving container.
Major factors affecting moving costs from Bakersfield to Chesapeake
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 Chesapeake might be as low as $3,000, while a four-bedroom could reach $13,600.
- 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 $1,700 to $4,600 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Chesapeake, VA to Bakersfield, CA guide.
Best Bakersfield to Chesapeake movers by type
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Best professional movers from Bakersfield to Chesapeake
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Bakersfield to Chesapeake, 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
How we chose the best CA→VA 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 Chesapeake
Many movers find Chesapeake easier on the wallet than Bakersfield - roughly 25% less for singles and 47% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,882 for one person in Chesapeake versus $2,493 in Bakersfield. For a family of four, it's $3,656 compared with $6,940.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Bakersfield | Chesapeake | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,850 | $1,775 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,450 | $2,250 |
| Average home value | $389,732 | $375,209 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,827 | $63,484 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,493 | $1,882 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,940 | $3,656 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 5.0% |
| Sales tax | 8.25% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 5.75% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 6% higher in Chesapeake than in Bakersfield, which may impact your monthly finances.
- The home prices in Chesapeake and Bakersfield differ by less than 5%, so there’s no need for a change in your mortgage funding unless you’re considering a larger residence.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 14% lower in Chesapeake than in Bakersfield.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Chesapeake. The cost of living for a single person is 25% less compared to Bakersfield.
- Relocating to Chesapeake could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 47% lower than in Bakersfield.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 15% lower than Bakersfield, Chesapeake boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 27% lower in Chesapeake than Bakersfield, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 57% lower in Virginia 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 Chesapeake, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Bakersfield | Chesapeake |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $340.00 | $302.50 |
| Cell phone plan | $53.67 | $53.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $2.95 | $3.36 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.81 | $4.17 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $13.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $67.50 | $70.00 |
| Gym membership | $36.50 | $43.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Bakersfield than in Chesapeake.
- Cell phone plans have similar prices in both Bakersfield and Chesapeake.
- Eggs are less expensive in Bakersfield than in Chesapeake.
- Bread costs less in Bakersfield than in Chesapeake.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Bakersfield than in Chesapeake.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Bakersfield than in Chesapeake.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Bakersfield than in Chesapeake.
How life is different in Bakersfield vs. Chesapeake
| Bakersfield | Chesapeake | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 909,235 | 249,422 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 2 |
| Walkability score | 37 | 21 |
| Bike friendliness score | 44 | 35 |
| Crime index | 58.49 | 25.0 |
| Safety index | 41.51 | 70.88 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Chesapeake's population is about 73% less than Bakersfield.
- Chesapeake's public transportation score of 2 out of 10 is lower than Bakersfield's score of 4.
- Chesapeake is less walkable than Bakersfield with a score of 21 out of 100 vs Bakersfield's 37 out of 100.
- Chesapeake has a bike-friendliness score of 35 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Bakersfield, which has a score of 44.
- Chesapeake's crime rate is lower than Bakersfield with a score of 25.0 compared to Bakersfield's 58.49. This means that Chesapeake neighborhoods are safer than 25.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Bakersfield neighborhoods are safer than 58.49%.
- Chesapeake is considered to be safer than Bakersfield with a safety index of 70.88 vs Bakersfield's 41.51.
- Air quality in Chesapeake is Good, and in Bakersfield it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Bakersfield to Chesapeake 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: In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Virginia moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Virginia, 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 Chesapeake 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. In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It's essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Chesapeake
Ready to relocate to Chesapeake? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Chesapeake.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Capital District
- Central Office
- East Ghent
- Radnor/Fort Myer Heights
- Colonial Village
- North Ghent
- North Highland
- Ghent
- North Rosslyn
- City Center
Best neighborhoods for families
- Greenbrier
- Great Bridge
- Hickory
Things to do in Chesapeake
Now that you've made the move to Virginia, it's the perfect time to explore Chesapeake. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Chesapeake include museums and art centers like the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum, AR Workshop Chesapeake, and Portlock Galleries at SoNo.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Oak Grove Lake Park, Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, Northwest River Park, and Chesapeake 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 Southern Chesapeake Athletic Association (youth baseball and softball)Oscar Smith Tigers (high school sports) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Bakersfield to Chesapeake?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Bakersfield to Chesapeake. 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 Chesapeake?
With many people choosing to move from Bakersfield to Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake take?
Covering 2,735 miles, the move from Bakersfield, CA to Chesapeake, VA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Bakersfield movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chesapeake can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Bakersfield can handle specialty items for my move to Chesapeake?
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.