Durham, NC to Bakersfield, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Durham to Bakersfield typically costs $3,900–$8,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,544 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Durham to Bakersfield
Moving from Durham, NC to Bakersfield, CA typically costs $3,900–$8,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,544-mile move from Durham to Bakersfield, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 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
- AB Moving recently quoted $8,262 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $4,713 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $2,671 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
4 Bedrooms
Mar 02, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Mar 01, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 23, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 29, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 26, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 19, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 05, 2026
Studio apartment
Dec 29, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 21, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 14, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Durham to Bakersfield
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Durham to Bakersfield might be as low as $2,600, while a four-bedroom could reach $12,300.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Durham.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,600 to $4,500 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Bakersfield, CA to Durham, NC guide.
Best Durham to Bakersfield movers by type
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Best professional movers from Durham to Bakersfield
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Durham to Bakersfield, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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 NC→CA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 115 North Carolina movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- 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.
What to know before moving from Durham to Bakersfield
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Bakersfield runs about -11% higher for singles and 17% higher for families than Durham.
Singles spend around $2,493 in Bakersfield versus $2,803 in Durham; families pay $6,940 compared with $5,945.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Durham | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,875 | $1,850 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,573 | $2,450 |
| Average home value | $391,719 | $389,732 |
| Average income (per capita) | $69,117 | $73,827 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,803 | $2,493 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,945 | $6,940 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 7.5% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 4.5% | 13.3% |
- Switching from Durham to Bakersfield won't strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
- The home prices in Bakersfield and Durham differ by less than 5%, so there’s no need for a change in your mortgage funding unless you’re considering a larger residence.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 7% higher in Bakersfield than in Durham, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Bakersfield. The cost of living for a single person is 11% less compared to Durham.
- As you plan your move to Bakersfield, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 17% more than it is in Durham.
- The unemployment rate in Bakersfield exceeds that of Durham by about 44%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Bakersfield exceed those in Durham by 10%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 196% higher in California than in North Carolina. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Durham and Bakersfield, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Durham | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $148.21 | $340.00 |
| Cell phone plan | $51.67 | $53.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.53 | $2.95 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.66 | $3.81 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $70.00 | $67.50 |
| Gym membership | $40.00 | $36.50 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Durham than in Bakersfield, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Durham than in Bakersfield.
- Eggs cost more in Durham than in Bakersfield.
- Bread costs less in Durham than in Bakersfield.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Durham than in Bakersfield.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Durham than in Bakersfield.
- Gym memberships cost more in Durham than in Bakersfield.
How life is different in Durham vs. Bakersfield
| Durham | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 283,506 | 909,235 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 30 | 37 |
| Bike friendliness score | 38 | 44 |
| Crime index | 54.72 | 58.49 |
| Safety index | 45.28 | 41.51 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Bakersfield's population is about 221% greater than Durham.
- Bakersfield's public transportation score is within about 5% of Durham, making them very similar.
- Bakersfield is more walkable than Durham with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Durham's 30 out of 100.
- With a score of 44 out of 100, Bakersfield is more bike-friendly than Durham, which has a score of 38 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Bakersfield's crime rate is higher than Durham with a score of 58.49 compared to Durham's 54.72. This means that Bakersfield neighborhoods are safer than 58.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Durham neighborhoods are safer than 54.72%.
- Bakersfield is considered to be less safe than Durham with a score of 41.51 vs Durham's 45.28.
- Air quality in Bakersfield is Good, and in Durham it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Durham to Bakersfield move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in California, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Bakersfield without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Bakersfield
Ready to relocate to California's Country Music Capital? Here are some of the top 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
Now that you've made the move to California, it's the perfect time to explore Bakersfield. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- 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: Outdoor lovers will appreciate The Park at River Walk and Peacocks at Hart Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Bakersfield Condors (AHL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Durham to Bakersfield?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Durham to Bakersfield. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Durham.
When is the cheapest time to move from Durham to Bakersfield?
With many people choosing to move from Durham 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 Durham to Bakersfield take?
Covering 2,544 miles, the move from Durham, NC to Bakersfield, CA typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Durham movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Bakersfield can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Durham can handle specialty items for my move to Bakersfield?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Durham, 18 movers can handle pianos. 7 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of NC, there are 77 piano movers and 37 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
