Wilmington, DE to Bakersfield, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Wilmington to Bakersfield typically costs $4,200–$8,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,718 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Wilmington to Bakersfield
Moving from Wilmington, DE to Bakersfield, CA typically costs $4,200–$8,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,718-mile move from Wilmington to Bakersfield, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- AB Moving recently quoted $4,472 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $7,269 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $5,564 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Wilmington to Bakersfield move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,500 for a one-bedroom, or up to $12,600 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Wilmington.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,700 to $5,000, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Bakersfield, CA to Wilmington, DE guide.
Best Wilmington to Bakersfield movers by type
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Best professional movers from Wilmington to Bakersfield
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Wilmington to Bakersfield much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
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 DE→CA movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 10 Delaware movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- 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%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Wilmington to Bakersfield
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Bakersfield runs about -29% higher for singles and 60% higher for families than Wilmington.
Singles spend around $2,493 in Bakersfield versus $3,533 in Wilmington; families pay $6,940 compared with $4,350.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Wilmington | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,933 | $1,850 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,200 | $2,450 |
| Average home value | $307,799 | $389,732 |
| Average income (per capita) | $49,354 | $73,827 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,533 | $2,493 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,350 | $6,940 |
| Unemployment rate | 10.3% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 0.0% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 6.6% | 13.3% |
- When relocating from Wilmington to Bakersfield, expect to find rent about 6% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Bakersfield are about 27% higher than those in Wilmington.
- Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 50% higher in Bakersfield compared to Wilmington, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Bakersfield, as the cost of living for a single person is 29% lower compared to Wilmington.
- 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 60% higher than in Wilmington.
- The unemployment rate in Bakersfield is about 43% lower than in Wilmington. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Bakersfield has a sales tax, while Wilmington does not. That means you’ll pay more at checkout after your move, adding extra cost to everyday purchases.
- Income taxes in California are 102% above those in Delaware. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Wilmington and Bakersfield:
| Living Expense | Wilmington | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $126.92 | $340.00 |
| Cell phone plan | $44.10 | $53.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.05 | $2.95 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.56 | $3.81 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $16.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $72.50 | $67.50 |
| Gym membership | $33.50 | $36.50 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Wilmington than in Bakersfield, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Wilmington than in Bakersfield.
- Eggs cost more in Wilmington than in Bakersfield.
- Bread costs less in Wilmington than in Bakersfield.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Wilmington than in Bakersfield.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Wilmington than in Bakersfield.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Wilmington than in Bakersfield.
How life is different in Wilmington vs. Bakersfield
| Wilmington | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 70,898 | 909,235 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 74 | 37 |
| Bike friendliness score | 52 | 44 |
| Crime index | 67.32 | 58.49 |
| Safety index | 32.68 | 41.51 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Bakersfield's population is about 1182% greater than Wilmington.
- Bakersfield's public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Wilmington's score of 6.
- Bakersfield is less walkable than Wilmington with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Wilmington's 74 out of 100.
- Bakersfield has a bike-friendliness score of 44 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Wilmington, which has a score of 52.
- Bakersfield's crime rate is lower than Wilmington with a score of 58.49 compared to Wilmington's 67.32. This means that Bakersfield neighborhoods are safer than 58.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Wilmington neighborhoods are safer than 67.32%.
- Bakersfield is considered to be safer than Wilmington with a safety index of 41.51 vs Wilmington's 32.68.
- Air quality in Bakersfield is Good, and in Wilmington it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Wilmington to Bakersfield move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: California’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- 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: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Bakersfield
Planning your move to California's Country Music Capital? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Bakersfield.
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 settling into your new California home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Bakersfield has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Bakersfield features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- 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 Wilmington to Bakersfield?
Planning your move from Wilmington to Bakersfield? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Wilmington.
When is the cheapest time to move from Wilmington to Bakersfield?
Because most people are moving from Wilmington to Bakersfield in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Wilmington to Bakersfield take?
The 2,718-mile journey from Wilmington, DE to Bakersfield, CA, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some movers in Wilmington offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Bakersfield.
Are there special savings available from movers in Wilmington?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 provide savings for AAA members. 3 have discounts for military personnel. 2 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Wilmington?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Wilmington, 49 movers can manage piano relocations. 39 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Delaware has 8 piano movers and 4 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.