($1,314) Cost to Move From Portland, OR to Bakersfield, CA

1. PDX Movers: 4.78 out of 5 stars
2. All Service Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
3. 2 Brothers Moving & Delivery: 4.62 out of 5 stars
4. ANC Movers: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. You Move Me: 4.62 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Portland to Bakersfield

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Portland to Bakersfield, you can expect to spend between $1,314 and $5,027. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,546 to $6,554 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Portland to Bakersfield typically runs between $4,469 and $8,735.

Cost of moving containers from Portland to Bakersfield

When moving from Portland to Bakersfield, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $738 and $1,850. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,466 to $2,785. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,783 up to $3,788. 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 Oregon.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Portland to Bakersfield

Renting a moving truck in Portland 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 $604 and $1,064. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $627 and $1,368. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $762 and $1,550.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

• As you consider relocating to Bakersfield, note that rent can be roughly 11% more expensive than it is in Portland; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
• Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 25% lower in Bakersfield than in Portland.
• It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 14% less in Bakersfield than in Portland.
• Since the cost of living for a single person is within 5% of the same in both Bakersfield and Portland, you shouldn’t see much difference.
• If your journey leads to Bakersfield, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in Bakersfield is 14% more than it is in Portland.
• Bakersfield experiences an unemployment rate that is about 14% lower than that of Portland. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
• Bakersfield has a sales tax, while Portland does not. That means you’ll pay more at checkout after your move, adding extra cost to everyday purchases.
• Income taxes are 34% higher in California compared to Oregon. 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 39% greater than Portland.
• Bakersfield’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Portland’s 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 of 44 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Portland, which has a score of 92.
• Bakersfield and Portland have a similar crime rate with scores of 58.49 and 57.37, respectively.
• Bakersfield and Portland have a similar safety level, with scores of 41.51 and 42.63.
• Air quality in Bakersfield is Good, and in Portland 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.