Best Bakersfield to Des Moines Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Bakersfield, the heart of California's oil country, to Des Moines, the capital city known for its lush parks and vibrant arts scene, marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life. You're not just swapping the sun-soaked fields of the Golden State for the inviting, pastoral landscapes of the Hawkeye State, you're stepping into a world brimming with new flavors, communities, and opportunities. Given the distance and complexities of such a move, it's crucial to trust this journey to professional movers, and that's where we come in, offering you access to the best, most reliable moving services through our unbiased ranking algorithm at Great Guys Moving.
Best Bakersfield to Des Moines Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Move Inc | 9.24 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Hemmen Moving | 9.11 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Excel Relocation Systems | 8.19 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc. | 8.13 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Meathead Movers | 7.23 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Des Moines to Bakersfield guide.
5 Best Bakersfield to Des Moines Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Best Move Inc
Best Move, Inc. prides itself on being one of the most preferred and recommended moving companies in Fort Madison, IA. Its BBB accreditation...Read More >>
Services
- Material Packing
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
About Hemmen Moving
For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and comme...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long distance moving
- Small moving
About Excel Relocation Systems
Excel Relocation Systems is a Bakersfield commercial moving company that partners with Smooth Move USA. Excel Relocation Systems specializes...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance
- Commercial Moves
About Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.
Hansen's Moving & Storage is one of the largest moving and storage companies in Kern County and has been serving the community since 197...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
About Meathead Movers
Meathead Movers was founded by two high school brothers in 1997, and now handles 18,000 moves per year! From Eureka down to Sacramento, Meat...Read More >>
Services
- Full Service Local Moving
- On-Site Labor Moves Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Bakersfield vs. Des Moines Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we're providing a guide for those relocating from Bakersfield, CA to Des Moines, IA . We compare popular neighborhoods from Bakersfield to their Des Moines equivalents, helping you find a slice of home in your new city.
| Bakersfield | Des Moines | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Seven Oaks | South of Grand | affluent, stately homes |
| Oleander Sunset | Sherman Hill | historic charm, vibrant community |
| Westchester | Drake | academic atmosphere, historic homes |
| Haggin Oaks | Waterbury | leafy streets, upscale living |
| Tevis Ranch | Waveland Park | family-friendly, public amenities |
| The Oaks | Beaverdale | quaint, character-rich homes |
| Rosedale | Johnston | spacious homes, green spaces |
| Stockdale Estates | Windsor Heights | tranquil, community-focused |
| Laurelglen | Urbandale | modern amenities, suburban feel |
| Riverlakes | Altoona | entertainment options, family-oriented |
In Bakersfield, neighborhoods like Seven Oaks and Haggin Oaks offer luxurious living with easy access to golf courses and upscale dining, similar to South of Grand and Waterbury in Des Moines. For those who appreciate historic charm, Oleander Sunset's resemblance to Sherman Hill is notable for its vibrant community and heritage-rich structures. Westchester’s academic environment finds its match in Drake, where the university atmosphere is palpable. For families, Tevis Ranch's friendly vibe is akin to Waveland Park, boasting ample parks and recreational facilities. Each Des Moines neighborhood brings a unique counterpart to Bakersfield's diverse communities, ensuring newcomers can find familiarity and comfort in their new surroundings.
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Pros and Cons of Moving from Bakersfield to Des Moines
Moving across states can evoke a mix of emotions and logistical challenges. This guide aims to lay down an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Bakersfield, CA to Des Moines, IA, to help you navigate the complexities of such a decision. By comparing the cons to the pros and vice versa, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what to expect in your new city.
Bakersfield, CA- High temperatures
- Air quality issues
- Less green spaces
- Higher crime rates
Des Moines, IA- Milder summers
- Cleaner air
- More parks
- Lower crime rates
Des Moines, IA- Colder winters
- Far from major cities
- Lesser food variety
- Quieter social scene
Bakersfield, CA- Warmer winters
- Proximity to LA
- More diverse cuisine
- Vibrant culture
Moving from Bakersfield to Des Moines presents a chance to embrace a city with cleaner air and more green spaces, which is excellent for those who value outdoor activities. You might find yourself spending weekends exploring the lush Des Moines' parks or enjoying the Des Moines Art Festival. However, prepare for colder winters, which might be a significant adjustment from Bakersfield's milder climate. Des Moines might offer a quieter social scene compared to Bakersfield's vibrancy, but it does have unique offerings like the East Village for boutique shopping and dining. The adjustment may take time, but Des Moines’ welcoming community and affordable living can make the transition smoother.
Bakersfield vs. Des Moines Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and provides insight into what it's like to live in an area. In this guide, we'll take a closer look by comparing the local cuisine between Bakersfield & Des Moines to give you a better understanding of the food scene in your new home.
| Bakersfield | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Basque cuisine | Breaded pork tenderloin sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Tri-tip steak | Smoked sausage |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Steak de Burgo |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Mexican cuisine | Seitan wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Bakersfield, you can dive into its unique Basque heritage through dishes found in local institutions like Wool Growers and Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen. The streets buzz with taco trucks offering a taste of the city's authentic Mexican cuisine. Des Moines, on the other hand, takes pride in its heartland classics, such as the iconic breaded pork tenderloin sandwich. The city's food scene is vibrant and adventurous, with places like Fong’s Pizza merging Asian cuisine with traditional pizza and Zombie Burger + Drink Lab providing a unique twist on American fast food. Both cities boast a growing foodie culture with an increasing number of eateries catering to health-conscious and vegan diets, reflecting the diverse tastes of their residents.
Bakersfield vs. Des Moines Restaurant Comparison
Finding your culinary comforts in a new city can transform any place into home. That's why we've crafted this comparison to ease the transition for anyone moving from Bakersfield, CA to Des Moines, IA. By aligning your favorite Bakersfield eateries with their Des Moines counterparts, we aim to help you rediscover your dining delights. This restaurant comparison chart is a bridge between Bakersfield and Des Moines , offering you a taste of home, wherever you are.
| Bakersfield | Des Moines | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| 24th Street Cafe | Waveland Cafe | Classic, cozy breakfast spot with a similar homey vibe |
| Luigi's Restaurant & Delicatessen | Centro | Italian classics with a modern twist, honoring traditional flavors |
| Wool Growers | Arostegui's Spanish Restaurant | Authentic Basque dining experience |
| Pyrenees Cafe | Harbinger | Offers innovative dishes with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients |
| Noriega's | Table 128 Bistro + Bar | Cozy, upscale dining with a focus on local produce |
| Lengthwise Brewing Company | Confluence Brewing Company | Craft brewery with robust local flavors |
| Tehachapi's Original Apple Shed | HoQ | Farm-to-table menu featuring locally sourced ingredients |
| Moo Creamery | Snookies Malt Shop | Offers a nostalgic atmosphere with quality homemade desserts |
| Valentien Restaurant | Alba | Chic, elegant setting with a creative, seasonal menu |
| Dewar's Candy Shop | Chocolate Storybook | Handcrafted sweets and treats to satisfy your sugar cravings |
In comparing the vibrant food scene of Bakersfield with Des Moines's culinary delights, it's fascinating to see how each city puts its unique spin on similar dining experiences. For those moving from Bakersfield, places like Confluence Brewing Company in Des Moines offer a craft beer experience that mirrors the communal and local ethos of Lengthwise Brewing Company. Meanwhile, the farm-to-table approach of HoQ in Des Moines resonates with the locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes that fans of Tehachapi's Original Apple Shed in Bakersfield cherish. This transition doesn't mean leaving your culinary memories behind but rather discovering new favorites that provide comfort and continuity in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Bakersfield vs. Des Moines Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how Bakersfield and Des Moines compare can significantly impact your decision-making process regarding housing options such as cost, walkability, and typical architecture. Understanding these factors in both cities is crucial for a smooth transition.
| Comparison | Bakersfield | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Ranch | Colonial and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, pools | Historic details, energy efficiency |
When considering a move from Bakersfield to Des Moines, you'll find distinct differences in the housing landscape. Des Moines homes are typically more historic, with an emphasis on Colonial and Craftsman architecture, often featuring energy efficiency as a key selling point. This contrasts with the modern and ranch-style homes prevalent in Bakersfield, where spacious backyards and pools are more common. Additionally, Des Moines provides a slightly better urban lifestyle, with higher walkability and bikeability scores, indicative of a city that's easier to navigate without a car. Whether you're searching for a place that reflects historical charm or modern comfort, these insights can guide your decision in finding a home that suits your style and needs.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Des Moines, IA
1. Beaverdale: Known for its charming brick homes and a strong sense of community, Beaverdale offers numerous parks and pet-friendly events making it an ideal place for you and your furry friend.
2. East Village: This eclectic area is not only rich in culture and shopping but also boasts several pet-friendly restaurants and shops, including East Village Pet Hospital for your pet's health needs.
3. Gray's Lake Park area: While not a neighborhood per se, the area around Gray's Lake Park is highly popular among pet owners for its spacious park, perfect for long walks, and the nearby residential areas offer a welcoming community for pet owners.
Bakersfield vs. Des Moines Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide provides a detailed comparison of the climate conditions you’ll experience moving from Bakersfield, CA to Des Moines, IA, ensuring you know exactly what to expect from your new home’s weather.
Bakersfield, CA
Des Moines, IA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Bakersfield, CA
Des Moines, IA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Bakersfield, CA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Bakersfield, CA
Des Moines, IA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Bakersfield | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Tornadoes, Blizzards |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparing Bakersfield to Des Moines, notable differences arise, especially when considering winter temperatures and snowfall. Preparing for a Des Moines winter means investing in quality winter clothing, as the city experiences significant snowfall and colder temperatures. Summers in Des Moines are milder with higher humidity levels than Bakersfield, influencing daily comfort and activities. Moreover, the shift in the number of sunshine days and annual rainfall will greatly affect outdoor plans and lifestyle adjustments. Bakersfield residents moving to Des Moines should also prepare for different natural disaster risks including tornadoes and blizzards.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Bakersfield to Des Moines
When planning a move, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison provides insight into the cost of living and general economic situation in Bakersfield, CA versus Des Moines, IA, highlighting key factors such as average household income, state taxes, and the prevailing economic climate. This information is vital for anyone considering making a move between these two cities.
| Comparison | Bakersfield | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,666 | $60,693 |
| Cost of Living Index | 103.4 | 90.9 |
| State Income Tax | 1-13.3 | 0.33-8.53 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.81 | 1.56 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25-8.25 | 6-7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Oil & Gas, Agriculture, Healthcare | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Growing |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Evident | Less Visible |
Des Moines, IA, offers a more affordable living environment compared to Bakersfield, CA, with a lower cost of living index and average property tax rate, despite the higher percentage mark. The difference in state income tax reflects Iowa's more gradual tax scale compared to California's steep progression. The dominant industries in Des Moines lean towards finance and insurance, signaling a dynamic economic landscape, likely contributing to its growing affluence and relatively lower poverty levels. These differences are critical to consider for financial planning and lifestyle expectations when moving.
Bakersfield vs. Des Moines Political & Religious Comparison
If you're planning a move from Bakersfield, CA, to Des Moines, IA, one of the adjustments you'll navigate is the difference in the community's makeup. In this comparison, we provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Bakersfield & Des Moines to help you understand the cultural and social atmosphere you're moving into.
| Bakersfield | Des Moines | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Conservatively inclined | Liberal-leaning |
| Local Politics | Largely Republican dominance | Democratic lean |
| Religion | High Christian presence, with notable churches | Diverse religious landscape, including Catholic and interfaith communities |
In Bakersfield, you might find a community with a significant conservative leaning, both in terms of political affiliation and religious participation. There, Christianity plays a central role in the community's makeup, with a variety of churches serving as key landmarks and gathering spaces. Moving to Des Moines, you'll notice a shift toward more liberal political views and a diversified religious landscape that includes a strong Catholic presence as well as active interfaith communities. This diversity in Des Moines could offer a fresh perspective and new opportunities for community engagement and spiritual exploration.
Bakersfield vs. Des Moines Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like when considering moving from Bakersfield, CA to Des Moines, IA. We'll cover key differences so you can plan your transportation or decide on which city meets your commuting needs more efficiently.
| Comparison | Bakersfield | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 19 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes, but not as easily as in larger cities |
Your daily commute and mode of transportation are significant factors to consider when relocating. Bakersfield and Des Moines have some differences in this area. Bakersfield's average commute time is a bit longer, and the city experiences higher traffic congestion than Des Moines. While both cities offer public transportation options, Des Moines scores slightly higher in terms of availability and convenience. Living without a car is more feasible in Des Moines than in Bakersfield, although if you're relocating from a major city with a robust public transit system, you might still find it challenging. Understanding these nuances will help you adjust your expectations and plan your move more effectively.
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