($1,283) Cost to Move From Detroit, MI to Bakersfield, CA

1. Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
2. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.5 out of 5 stars
3. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
4. Handy Relocations: 4.28 out of 5 stars
5. Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Bakersfield

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Detroit to Bakersfield, you can expect to spend between $1,283 and $5,408. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,631 to $7,167 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Detroit to Bakersfield typically runs between $6,820 and $11,198.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Bakersfield

When moving from Detroit to Bakersfield, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,156 and $3,106. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,203 to $4,386. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $2,881 up to $6,123. 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 Michigan.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Bakersfield

Renting a moving truck in Detroit is usually your cheapest option to get to Bakersfield. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $1,261 and $2,315. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,310 and $2,956. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,637 and $3,413.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

• As you consider relocating to Bakersfield, note that rent can be roughly 36% more expensive than it is in Detroit; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
• Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 433% higher in Bakersfield than in Detroit.
• Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 96% higher in Bakersfield compared to Detroit, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
• Since the cost of living for a single person is within 5% of the same in both Bakersfield and Detroit, you shouldn’t see much difference.
• You’ll find the cost of living for a family to be nearly equivalent in Bakersfield and Detroit, with only a minor variance of about 5%, so you’ll likely see minimal difference in daily expenses.
• Bakersfield experiences an unemployment rate that is about 35% lower than that of Detroit. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
• Sales taxes are 38% higher in Bakersfield than in Detroit. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
• Income taxes are 213% higher in California compared to Michigan. As a result, you might notice a larger bite taken out of your salary by the state’s tax system, which could affect your net income.

• Bakersfield’s population is about 42% greater than Detroit.
• Bakersfield’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Detroit’s score of 7.
• Bakersfield is less walkable than Detroit with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 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 Detroit, which has a score of 52.
• Bakersfield’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 58.49 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Bakersfield neighborhoods are safer than 58.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
• Bakersfield is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 41.51 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
• Air quality in Bakersfield is Good, and in Detroit it’s Good.

• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
• 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 verify a California moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: While California doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Bakersfield smoothly. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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.

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: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Bakersfield offers cultural landmarks 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 sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
• Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Bakersfield Condors (AHL) game.