Washington DC, MD to Bakersfield, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Washington DC to Bakersfield typically costs $4,300–$8,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,686 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Washington DC to Bakersfield
Moving from Washington DC, MD to Bakersfield, CA typically costs $4,300–$8,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,686-mile move from Washington DC to Bakersfield, 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
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $5,113 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- BLVD Moving recently quoted $8,327 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $3,332 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Jan 31, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 24, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 19, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 12, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 25, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 16, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 25, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Nov 25, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Nov 25, 2025
Factors that affect moving costs from Washington DC to Bakersfield
Your total cost will depend on:
- How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Washington DC to Bakersfield may only cost $2,800, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $13,900.
- The season you're moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Washington DC.
- Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($1,700–$5,000), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Bakersfield, CA to Washington DC, MD guide.
Best Washington DC to Bakersfield movers by type
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Best professional movers from Washington DC to Bakersfield
Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Washington DC to Bakersfield. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.
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 MD→CA movers
moveBuddha's dedicated analysts have scrutinized moving rates across 51 Maryland moving firms, selecting the top providers by assessing customer approval, reviews, and affordability.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The team ensures timely service delivery, engages in effective communication, and adheres to the projected costs.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Moving isn’t perfect, and mistakes will happen. We highlight movers that handle those situations honestly and put effort into resolving them fairly.
- Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
- Online reputation (15%): This mover keeps its website up to date and provides timely, professional replies to questions or concerns raised online.
- Service options (10%): Companies stand out when they provide comprehensive options such as full-service packing, safe storage, handling of specialty items, and expedited shipping.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Bakersfield
Many movers find Bakersfield easier on the wallet than Washington DC - roughly 37% less for singles and 37% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,493 for one person in Bakersfield versus $3,963 in Washington DC. For a family of four, it's $6,940 compared with $11,093.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Washington DC | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,568 | $1,850 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $5,417 | $2,450 |
| Average home value | $594,337 | $389,732 |
| Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $73,827 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,963 | $2,493 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,093 | $6,940 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 5.75% | 13.3% |
- Rent is about 29% less expensive in Bakersfield than in Washington DC, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
- Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 34% cheaper in Bakersfield than in Washington DC.
- You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 27% less in Bakersfield than in Washington DC.
- Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Bakersfield. The cost of living for a single person there is 37% below that of Washington DC.
- A move to Bakersfield can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 37% lower compared to Washington DC.
- Bakersfield has a lower unemployment rate than Washington DC by about 16%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
- Sales taxes in Bakersfield surpass those in Washington DC by 38%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
- Income taxes are 131% more in California than in Maryland. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.
Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Washington DC versus Bakersfield:
| Living Expense | Washington DC | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.62 | $340.00 |
| Cell phone plan | $65.80 | $53.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.67 | $2.95 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.43 | $3.81 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $67.50 |
| Gym membership | $103.76 | $36.50 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Washington DC than in Bakersfield, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Washington DC than in Bakersfield.
- Eggs cost more in Washington DC than in Bakersfield.
- Bread is more expensive in Washington DC than in Bakersfield.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Washington DC than in Bakersfield.
- Gym memberships cost more in Washington DC than in Bakersfield.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Bakersfield
| Washington DC | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 672,079 | 909,235 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 37 |
| Bike friendliness score | 70 | 44 |
| Crime index | 60.37 | 58.49 |
| Safety index | 39.63 | 41.51 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Bakersfield's population is about 35% greater than Washington DC.
- Bakersfield's public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Washington DC's score of 9.
- Bakersfield is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 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 Washington DC, which has a score of 70.
- Bakersfield and Washington DC have a similar crime rate with scores of 58.49 and 60.37, respectively.
- Bakersfield and Washington DC have a similar safety level, with scores of 41.51 and 39.63.
- Air quality in Bakersfield is Good, and in Washington DC it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC to Bakersfield move
- HOA rules: Plan time to look into your HOA or community rules and regulations before moving day arrives, to avoid any delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving company's license in California, visit the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in California, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
- Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Bakersfield. Get started 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Where to live in Bakersfield
With your sights set on California's Country Music Capital, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider 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
With your move to California complete, you can dive right into experiencing Bakersfield. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you'll never run out of things to do:
- Arts and culture: Bakersfield is home to museums and cultural arts 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 — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Bakersfield Condors (AHL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Bakersfield?
If you're flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Washington DC to Bakersfield. You'll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Washington DC.
When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Bakersfield?
Want to save on your move from Washington DC to Bakersfield? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.
How long does a move from Washington DC to Bakersfield take?
The 2,686-mile move from Washington DC, MD, to Bakersfield, CA, takes seven to 21 days. Some Washington DC movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Bakersfield.
What kinds of discounts do Washington DC movers offer?
Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. 7 movers offer special pricing for military members. 14 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.
Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.
Need help moving a piano or antiques in Washington DC?
These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 59 movers in Washington DC provide piano moving services. 44 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 37 piano movers and 30 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,296 and 1,463.
Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.
