Jackson, MS to Bakersfield, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Jackson to Bakersfield typically costs $3,700–$8,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,853 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Jackson to Bakersfield
Moving from Jackson, MS to Bakersfield, CA typically costs $3,700–$8,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,853-mile move from Jackson 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 $8,271 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $3,790 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $5,351 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Jackson to Bakersfield move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,900 for a one-bedroom, or up to $12,500 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Jackson.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $1,200 to $3,600, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Bakersfield, CA to Jackson, MS guide.
Best Jackson to Bakersfield movers by type
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Best professional movers from Jackson to Bakersfield
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Jackson 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 MS→CA movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 24 Mississippi 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 Jackson to Bakersfield
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Bakersfield runs about 27% higher for singles and 39% higher for families than Jackson.
Singles spend around $2,493 in Bakersfield versus $1,969 in Jackson; families pay $6,940 compared with $4,990.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Jackson | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $867 | $1,850 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,167 | $2,450 |
| Average home value | $68,872 | $389,732 |
| Average income (per capita) | $57,848 | $73,827 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,969 | $2,493 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,990 | $6,940 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.7% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 8.0% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 4.7% | 13.3% |
- Planning a move to Bakersfield? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 45% higher than in Jackson, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Bakersfield are about 466% higher than those in Jackson.
- Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 28% higher in Bakersfield compared to Jackson, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Bakersfield, as living costs for a single person are 27% higher than in Jackson. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- 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 39% higher than in Jackson.
- The unemployment rate in Bakersfield is about 23% lower than in Jackson. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes hold steady between Bakersfield and Jackson (within a 5% margin), alleviating the need for major budget adjustments.
- Income taxes in California are 183% above those in Mississippi. 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 Jackson and Bakersfield:
| Living Expense | Jackson | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $213.78 | $340.00 |
| Cell phone plan | $58.88 | $53.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.12 | $2.95 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.83 | $3.81 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $60.00 | $67.50 |
| Gym membership | $65.00 | $36.50 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Jackson than in Bakersfield, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Jackson than in Bakersfield.
- Eggs cost more in Jackson than in Bakersfield.
- Bread costs less in Jackson than in Bakersfield.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Jackson than in Bakersfield.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Jackson than in Bakersfield.
- Gym memberships cost more in Jackson than in Bakersfield.
How life is different in Jackson vs. Bakersfield
| Jackson | Bakersfield | |
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| Population | 153,701 | 909,235 |
| Transportation score | 2 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 26 | 37 |
| Bike friendliness score | 33 | 44 |
| Crime index | 82.38 | 58.49 |
| Safety index | 17.62 | 41.51 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Bakersfield's population is about 492% greater than Jackson.
- Bakersfield's public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is higher than Jackson's score of 2.
- Bakersfield is more walkable than Jackson with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Jackson's 26 out of 100.
- With a score of 44 out of 100, Bakersfield is more bike-friendly than Jackson, which has a score of 33 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Bakersfield's crime rate is lower than Jackson with a score of 58.49 compared to Jackson's 82.38. This means that Bakersfield neighborhoods are safer than 58.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Jackson neighborhoods are safer than 82.38%.
- Bakersfield is considered to be safer than Jackson with a safety index of 41.51 vs Jackson's 17.62.
- Air quality in Bakersfield is Good, and in Jackson it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Jackson 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 Jackson to Bakersfield?
Planning your move from Jackson to Bakersfield? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Jackson.
When is the cheapest time to move from Jackson to Bakersfield?
Because most people are moving from Jackson 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 Jackson to Bakersfield take?
The 1,853-mile journey from Jackson, MS to Bakersfield, CA, typically takes five to 16 days. Some movers in Jackson 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 piano and antique moving services available in Jackson?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Jackson, 4 movers can manage piano relocations. 2 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Mississippi has 15 piano movers and 8 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.