Charleston, SC to Bakersfield, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Charleston to Bakersfield typically costs $3,900–$7,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 2,495 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Charleston to Bakersfield
Moving from Charleston, SC to Bakersfield, CA typically costs $3,900–$7,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 2,495-mile move from Charleston to Bakersfield, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 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
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $7,854 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $3,499 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $9,992 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 30, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 30, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 08, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 22, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 05, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 03, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 01, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Nov 27, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Nov 26, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Charleston 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 Charleston to Bakersfield might be as low as $2,800, while a four-bedroom could reach $13,100.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Charleston.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,500 to $4,300 — 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 Charleston, SC guide.
Best Charleston to Bakersfield movers by type
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Best professional movers from Charleston to Bakersfield
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Charleston 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 SC→CA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 52 South 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 Charleston to Bakersfield
Many movers find Bakersfield easier on the wallet than Charleston - roughly 53% less for singles and 12% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,493 for one person in Bakersfield versus $5,300 in Charleston. For a family of four, it's $6,940 compared with $7,890.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Charleston | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,529 | $1,850 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,487 | $2,450 |
| Average home value | $559,231 | $389,732 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,294 | $73,827 |
| Cost of living (single) | $5,300 | $2,493 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,890 | $6,940 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.0% | 5.9% |
| Sales tax | 9.0% | 8.25% |
| State income tax | 7.0% | 13.3% |
- Good news! When moving to Bakersfield from Charleston, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 32% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 30% cheaper in Bakersfield, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 19% higher in Bakersfield than in Charleston, 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 53% less compared to Charleston.
- Relocating to Bakersfield could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 12% lower than in Charleston.
- The unemployment rate in Bakersfield exceeds that of Charleston by about 48%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are 8% lower in Bakersfield than Charleston, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 90% higher in California than in South 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 Charleston and Bakersfield, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Charleston | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $156.99 | $340.00 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.78 | $53.67 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.55 | $2.95 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.82 | $3.81 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $80.00 | $67.50 |
| Gym membership | $29.17 | $36.50 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Charleston than in Bakersfield, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Charleston than in Bakersfield.
- Eggs cost more in Charleston than in Bakersfield.
- Bread is more expensive in Charleston than in Bakersfield.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Charleston than in Bakersfield.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Charleston than in Bakersfield.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Charleston than in Bakersfield.
How life is different in Charleston vs. Bakersfield
| Charleston | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 150,277 | 909,235 |
| Transportation score | 3 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 40 | 37 |
| Bike friendliness score | 50 | 44 |
| Crime index | 44.97 | 58.49 |
| Safety index | 55.03 | 41.51 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Bakersfield's population is about 505% greater than Charleston.
- Bakersfield's public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is higher than Charleston's score of 3.
- Bakersfield is less walkable than Charleston with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Charleston's 40 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 Charleston, which has a score of 50.
- Bakersfield's crime rate is higher than Charleston with a score of 58.49 compared to Charleston's 44.97. This means that Bakersfield neighborhoods are safer than 58.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Charleston neighborhoods are safer than 44.97%.
- Bakersfield is considered to be less safe than Charleston with a score of 41.51 vs Charleston's 55.03.
- Air quality in Bakersfield is Good, and in Charleston it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Charleston 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 Charleston to Bakersfield?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Charleston to Bakersfield. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Charleston.
When is the cheapest time to move from Charleston to Bakersfield?
With many people choosing to move from Charleston 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 Charleston to Bakersfield take?
Covering 2,495 miles, the move from Charleston, SC to Bakersfield, CA typically takes seven to 18 days. Some Charleston movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Bakersfield can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Charleston can handle specialty items for my move to Bakersfield?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Charleston, 6 movers can handle pianos. 4 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of SC, there are 33 piano movers and 18 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
