Quick answer: For a 1,091-mile move from Fort Collins to Bakersfield, expect to spend around $898–$7,171 and two to eight days in transit. Cost and time vary by move size, date, and whether you're going DIY or using a moving company.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Bakersfield to Fort Collins guide.

Our track recordtoggle

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Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
  • $50,000 in moving grants delivered
  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best movers by type

For a move from Fort Collins to Bakersfield, you’ll have no shortage of options. There are 10 interstate movers in your area, giving you plenty of choices… but also a big decision to make about whether to go full-service or take on more of the work yourself.

We reviewed every Fort Collins company against key criteria, including service variety, affordability, and what people are saying in online reviews. Only the best long-distance movers in Fort Collins made our final list.

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Best professional movers from Fort Collins to Bakersfield

A full-service mover can make your interstate relocation from Fort Collins to Bakersfield far less complicated. From wrapping and packing your belongings to transporting them safely, these companies cover the entire process so you can spend your time on what matters most.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

What moving services are available in Fort Collins?toggle

To understand what’s realistic in your area, use this table as a guide. It compares service availability in Fort Collins to all of CO and to the national picture, making it easier to identify easy wins and potential gaps.

Service Fort Collins (Count) Fort Collins (%) Colorado (Count) Colorado (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 18 100% 66 99% 2523 98%
Unpacking 17 94% 65 97% 2491 97%
Fragile-only packing 6 33% 15 22% 620 24%
Packing materials 10 56% 27 40% 1502 58%
Storage
Storage 16 89% 55 82% 2225 87%
Climate-controlled storage 8 44% 18 27% 817 32%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 13 72% 40 60% 1628 63%
Art 5 28% 28 42% 1256 49%
Antiques 4 22% 25 37% 1176 46%
Piano 14 78% 47 70% 1901 74%
Hot tub 1 6% 15 22% 575 22%
Pool table 4 22% 20 30% 834 32%

How we chose the best moving companies for your CO to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 54 Colorado movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

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%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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.

Local moving companies servicing Fort Collins to Bakersfield moves

When planning a move from Fort Collins to Bakersfield, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. There are plenty of companies, but which ones are actually worth it?

We've taken care of the research for you — reviewing local movers in Fort Collins who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Fort Collins to Bakersfield.

  1. Exodus Moving and Storage: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Little Guys Movers : 4.76 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  4. Two College Movers: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  5. Johnson Storage & Moving: 4.66 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/ExodusMoving/, https://twitter.com/exodusmoving?lang=en
89% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customer experiences with Exodus Moving and Storage stand out for consistently efficient service and careful handling of belongings. Reviewers often mention friendly, professional staff and fast moves, with crew members going the extra mile to protect both property and possessions. Communication remains strong and reliable for most, helping ease the stress of relocation.
Only a small portion of feedback indicates issues such as damages to items, some lost belongings, or costs higher than estimated. Compared to typical moving companies, Exodus ranks highly for work ethic, professionalism, and attention to customer needs, though customers should pay close attention to insurance options and double-check inventory to avoid potential losses or surprises.
Show more
Get a Quote (970) 484-1488

Company Info

Years in Business: 26

Alternate Names: AAA Exodus Moving and Storage Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/LittleGuysFortCollins/,
96% of all reviews were positive
4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy, that's what customers say about Little Guys Movers. After analyzing 277 pieces of customer feedback, 96% praised fast, careful service, polite crews, prompt communication, and true professionalism. Reviewers often highlighted how efficiently teams worked and how cautiously possessions were handled—even during stressful or complex moves.
The staff’s friendly, helpful approach and clear communication built trust, and many customers reported paying less due to accurate estimates or quick work. Typical concerns in less favorable feedback revolved around damaged furniture, unprofessional behavior by management, or cost discrepancies. Compared to similar moving companies, Little Guys Movers stands out for reliable, courteous crews and careful handling, but a few clients did note the need for better quality control and accurate final billings.
Show more
Get a Quote (970) 416-9800

Company Info

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 1931566


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/TwoMenFortCollins/, https://twitter.com/tmt_fortcollins?lang=en
89% of all reviews were positive
12% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers looking for movers that deliver fast, attentive service consistently single out Two Men and a Truck for their efficiency, friendly demeanor, and cautious approach with belongings. Out of 253 feedback submissions, 88.5% were satisfied, often describing teams as hardworking, respectful, and careful with furniture and property—qualities many other moving companies lack. Many reports highlight quick, seamless moves and positive, personable staff.
Some clients encountered problems such as damaged items, final costs exceeding estimates, or crews not arriving as scheduled. Despite a small number of these negative experiences, most users rate their services much higher than competitors for reliability and care during moves.
Show more
Get a Quote (970) 344-6204

Company Info

State license #: 00322

Years in Business: 19

DOT #: 2527384


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/TwoCollegeMovers/,
92% of all reviews were positive
8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day made easy sums up the feedback for Two College Movers. Analysis of 239 reviews found 91.6% of customers report efficient, professional service and careful handling of items. Crews consistently receive praise for being quick, polite, and helpful, with many users highlighting stress-free moves and affordable rates.
Customers appreciate prompt arrival, respectful attitudes, and movers who go above and beyond to protect furniture. In comparison to other companies, clients say Two College Movers delivers faster, more careful, and courteous service. Negative input, representing 7.5% of the total, points to cases of damaged belongings, extra charges, and a few issues with packing quality. Only 0.8% of comments fall in the neutral range, typically noting communication or payment hiccups. Most customers strongly endorse the team for their smooth process and hardworking crews, while isolated reports suggest confirming total charges and checking that valuables are packed with care.
Show more
Get a Quote (970) 658-0707

Company Info

State license #: 00422

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2493028

Alternate Names: AKA Corporation


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/JohnsonStorageAndMovingLongmont/, https://twitter.com/JohnsonStorage
82% of all reviews were positive
18% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback on Johnson Storage & Moving highlights exceptional professionalism, efficiency, and staff courtesy, with over 80% of input positive out of 184 reviews analyzed. Movers routinely deliver prompt service, handle possessions with care, and communicate clearly, making moving less stressful for many. Customers point out the team's respectful attitude and quick, organized work, which sets this company apart from average movers.
Some negative feedback does stand out—primarily complaints about damages to items, unclear communication about timing or costs, and surprise fees or claims issues. While most describe reliable and responsive service, a noticeable segment experienced broken or missing items and difficulty resolving problems. The rate of positive responses notably surpasses those of typical moving companies, but a few administrative or claims-related problems remain areas for improvement.
Show more
Get a Quote (303) 447-9444

Company Info

State license #: 3497243

Years in Business: 125

DOT #: 286130

Alternate Names: Johnson Logistics, LLC, Baron Worldwide, Security Van Lines


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified

How much does it cost to move from Fort Collins to Bakersfield?

Fort Collins movers charge $120 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,325 - $5,761 $962 - $2,420 $807 - $1,563
2 - 3 bedrooms $2,926 - $7,171 $1,812 - $3,339 $898 - $1,770
4+ bedrooms $4,714 - $8,949 $2,424 - $4,771 $1,052 - $2,219
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,091 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Colorado to California

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Colorado to California typically costs between $1,325 and $5,761. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $2,926 and $7,171 when moving from CO to CA. If you're tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Colorado to California, you're looking at costs ranging from $4,714 up to $8,949.

Cost of moving containers from Colorado to California

Moving from Colorado to California? For a small load, you'll likely pay between $962 and $2,420. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,812 to $3,339. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,424 up to $4,771. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Colorado.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Colorado to California

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $807 and $1,563 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $898 to $1,770. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $1,052 to $2,219.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Factors that influence moving costs from Fort Collins to Bakersfieldtoggle

The cost of Fort Collins movers will depend on:

  • Amount of belongings: Moving costs go up with more stuff. A move from Fort Collins to Bakersfield might cost just $1,325 for a one-bedroom, but up to $8,283 for a four-bedroom.
  • When you move: Summer is peak moving season in Fort Collins, which means movers charge more during those months.
  • DIY or hire help: You can save by going the DIY route. Rental trucks cost between $807 and $2,071, though you'll be doing the hard work vs letting the pros handle it.

What to know before moving from Fort Collins to Bakersfield

Bakersfield typically comes with higher living costs — around 16% more for singles and 45% more for families than Fort Collins.

Singles pay roughly $2,493 vs. $2,140; families average $6,940 vs. $4,795.

Check the breakdown below to see where the increases show up:

Fort Collins Bakersfield
Average 1 BR rent $1,783 $1,850
Average 3 BR rent $2,830 $2,450
Average home value $543,093 $389,732
Average income (per capita) $64,728 $73,827
Unemployment rate 5.6% 5.9%
Sales tax 7.55% 8.25%
State income tax 5.49% 13.3%
  • Rent prices in Bakersfield are 3% lower than in Fort Collins, which means you'll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, you'll be able to get more for your money in Bakersfield.
    Home prices in Bakersfield are 28.2% lower than in Fort Collins.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Bakersfield, where incomes are, on average, 14.1% higher than in Fort Collins. Major employers in Bakersfield include Bakersfield City School District, Clinica Sierra Vista, and Kern High School District.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Bakersfield, since the cost of living for a single person in Bakersfield is 16.5% higher than in Fort Collins. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If you're moving your family to Bakersfield, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Bakersfield is 44.7% higher than in Fort Collins.
  • The unemployment rate in Bakersfield is 5.36% higher than in Fort Collins.
  • Shopping and dining out will likely be a little pricier in Bakersfield, since its sales taxes are 9.27% higher than what you are paying in Fort Collins.
  • State income taxes in Bakersfield are 142.26% higher than in Fort Collins.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Fort Collins and Bakersfield, from monthly bills to routine purchases.

Fort Collins Bakersfield
Basic utilities $167.02 $340
Cell phone plan $43 $53.67
Dozen eggs $4.12 $2.95
Loaf of bread $3.09 $3.81
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18 $25
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $72 $67.5
Gym membership $60 $36.5
  • Basic utilities cost less in Fort Collins than in Bakersfield, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Fort Collins than in Bakersfield.
  • Eggs cost more in Fort Collins than in Bakersfield.
  • Bread costs less in Fort Collins than in Bakersfield.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Fort Collins than in Bakersfield.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Fort Collins than in Bakersfield.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Fort Collins than in Bakersfield.

How life is different in Fort Collins vs. Bakersfield

Bakersfield Fort Collins
Population 909,235 169,810
Transportation Score 4 4
Walkability score 37 37
Bike friendliness score 44 78
Crime Index 58.49 17.0
Safety Index 41.51 72.86
Air Quality Good Good
  • The population of Bakersfield is about 435% greater than Fort Collins, so you may find more to see and do in your new surroundings. Of course, with more people can also come increased competition for jobs and housing.
  • Your access to buses, shuttles, trams, or trains in Bakersfield will be about the same as it currently is in Fort Collins. The cities share a similar public transportation score, which means their transit systems are comparable in terms of how connected they are, how often they provide service, and how close they are to jobs, housing, retail and food stores, and other important locations.
  • You'll find Bakersfield to be about as walkable as Fort Collins. The two cities have similar walkability scores of 37 and 37 respectively out of 100 in terms of how close housing is to businesses, recreational facilities, and jobs.
  • You probably won't see as many cycling lanes or off-road trails in Bakersfield, which is ranked as less bike-friendly than Fort Collins. While Fort Collins has a bike-friendliness score of 78 out of 100, Bakersfield earned a 44. Scores are based on factors like whether a city accommodates cyclists on major roadways, how often people bike to work, and how many steep hills it has.
  • The crime rate in Bakersfield is higher than in Fort Collins, so you may want to exercise a little extra caution as you're acclimating to your new location. While the crime index is 58.49 in Bakersfield, it is 17.0 in Fort Collins. With this index, the lower the score, the better, since it indicates a city's crime levels.
  • You may want to exercise more caution as you're getting used to your new surroundings in Bakersfield. With a crime index of 41.51, Bakersfield ranks lower in overall safety than Fort Collins, whose index is 72.86. The safety index measures how safe people in a city feel about walking alone, both during the day and at night, as well as data on muggings, theft, vandalism, and other instances of petty crime.
  • The air quality in Bakersfield and Fort Collins is generally the same (Good). Cities with good to moderate ratings have clean or acceptable air quality, with the possibility of small pollutants affecting people with certain health conditions like asthma. Anything beyond the moderate rate means increased impact on residents.

Other things to consider for your Fort Collins vs. Bakersfield move

  • Weather: Bakersfield has very hot, dry summers, and winters that consist of mild days with chilly/cold nights. Check your weather app before your move to avoid extreme heat.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: California doesn't require moving permits, but it's still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • 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 Bakersfield. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Bakersfield

Now that you've chosen California's Country Music Capital as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Bakersfield to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown Bakersfield
  • The Oaks
  • Westchester
  • Laurelglen
  • Belsera

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Seven Oaks
  • Northwest Bakersfield
  • Southwest Bakersfield
  • Olde Stockdale
  • Haggin Oaks

Things to do in Bakersfield

After getting comfortable in your new California home, it's time to see what Bakersfield is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Bakersfield include museums and art centers like the Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, Kern County Museum, Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, and Bakersfield Museum of Art.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city's The Park at River Walk and Peacocks at Hart Park — and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
  • Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Bakersfield Condors (AHL) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Fort Collins to Bakersfield?

The best time to move from Fort Collins to Bakersfield is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Fort Collins.

When is the cheapest time to move from Fort Collins to Bakersfield?

With many people choosing to move from Fort Collins to Bakersfield 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 Fort Collins to Bakersfield take?

The 1,091-mile move from Fort Collins, CO, to Bakersfield, CA, takes two to eight days. Some Fort Collins movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Bakersfield.

Which movers in Fort Collins offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 14 movers in Fort Collins have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 4 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across CO, there are 47 piano movers and 25 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 1901 and 1176.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources