($1,647) Movers From Portland, OR to Bakersfield, CA

What to know before moving from Portland to Bakersfield

Moving from Portland to Bakersfield means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Portland than in Bakersfield, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Portland compares to Bakersfield so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Bakersfield are 11% higher than in Portland, which means you’ll have less money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Bakersfield.
  Home prices in Bakersfield are 25.4% lower than in Portland.
• Income in Bakersfield is 14.0% lower than in Portland, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Bakersfield include Bakersfield City School District, Clinica Sierra Vista, and Kern High School District.
• The cost of living for a single person in Bakersfield is 3.1% lower than in Portland. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• 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 14.2% higher than in Portland.
• The unemployment rate in Bakersfield is 14.49% lower than in Portland.
• You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Bakersfield, since the city’s sales taxes in Bakersfield are 8.25% higher than in Portland.
• State income taxes in Bakersfield are 34.34% higher than in Portland.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,907.85 in Bakersfield to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Portland.

How life is different in Portland vs. Bakersfield

• Bakersfield's population is about 39% greater than Portland.
• Bakersfield's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Portland's higher score of 8.
• Bakersfield is less walkable than Portland with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Portland's 81 out of 100.
• Bakersfield has a bike-friendliness score 44 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Portland, which has a score of 92 out of 100.
• Bakersfield and Portland have a similar crime rate.
• Bakersfield and Portland are considered to be equally safe.
• Air quality in Bakersfield is good, and in Portland it's good.

Other things to consider for your Portland vs. Bakersfield move

• Weather: Bakersfield has very hot, dry summers, and winters that consist of mild days with chilly/cold nights. Check your weather app before your move to avoid extreme heat.
• 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: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
• 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: You can verify a California moving company\’s license by visiting the state'spublic 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: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toBakersfield 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Bakersfield

Now that you’ve chosen "California's Country Music Capital" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Bakersfield to check out.

Helpful moving resources