Moving from Bakersfield to Durham?

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Bakersfield to Durham Movers

Moving from the Oil Capital of California, Bakersfield, to the academia-centric haven of Durham, often dubbed the City of Medicine, marks an exciting chapter in your life filled with new opportunities. Swapping the vast fields and country twang of Bakersfield for Durham’s bustling collegiate atmosphere and burgeoning tech scene may seem daunting, but it’s an adventure that promises growth and new experiences. To ensure your long-distance move is smooth and worry-free, entrusting this significant transition to trusted and reliable professional movers, like those we rank at Great Guys Moving, is crucial for peace of mind during your journey.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Bakersfield guide.

5 Best Bakersfield to Durham Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 954+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Free estimates, Full Value Protection (FVP), Fully licensed and insured See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 3344628 Verify

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

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#2
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,516+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3205320 Verify

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in raleigh 2023 athens moving experts image
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#3
Excel Relocation Systems Logo
Very Good

based on 660+ data points

Bakersfield, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance, Commercial Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2911596 Verify

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 >>

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top 3 ranked movers in bakersfield 2023 excel relocation systems image
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#4
Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc. Logo
Very Good

based on 1,379+ data points

Bakersfield, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Residential Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2728836 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in bakersfield 2023 hansens moving storage inc image
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#5
Meathead Movers Logo
Below Average

based on 708+ data points

Bakersfield, CA
Full Service Local Moving, On-Site Labor Moves Local Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/29/2022)

USDOT: 921143 Verify

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 >>

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Relocating from Bakersfield to Durham Neighborhood Guide

Moving can feel like an overwhelming leap into the unknown, especially when it involves trading familiar streets for those of a new city. To ease this transition, we’ve crafted a guide that leverages your comfort with Bakersfield, CA to help you find your new favorite spots in Durham, NC. By comparing local neighborhoods between Bakersfield, CA & Durham, NC , we aim to transform the unknown into the familiar. Let's explore how each city's top neighborhoods align.

BakersfieldDurham
Seven OaksHope Valley

Family-friendly atmosphere, elite golf courses

Olive Drive AreaOld North Durham

Historic homes, creative community vibe

Stockdale EstatesTrinity Park

Vibrant community, close to Duke University

Tevis RanchWoodcroft

Lush green spaces, family-oriented

The OaksDuke Park

Eclectic, full of parks and recreational activities

LaurelglenWatts-Hillandale

Quaint and cozy with a strong sense of community

RosedaleTreyburn

Upscale living, surrounded by nature

Haggin OaksRockwood

Artsy and dynamic, with a rich history

Brundage LaneLakewood

Diverse and lively, with unique shopping options

WestdaleSouthpoint

Modern amenities, shopping, and dining

As you begin to picture your life in Durham, imagine the vibrant street festivals in Old North Durham, reminiscent of the Olive Drive Area's close-knit community but with the added twist of historic allure. You'll find the refined serenity of Hope Valley mirrors Seven Oaks, offering an exclusive suburban feel paired with top-tier golfing experiences. For those drawn to Bakersfield's outdoor lifestyle in areas like The Oaks, Duke Park in Durham welcomes you with open arms, boasting ample greenery and community events that foster neighborly connections. Residents transitioning from Laurelglen will appreciate the similar vibe Watts-Hillandale exudes, where annual parades and porch festivals enhance the strong sense of belonging. Whether you're leaving behind evening strolls in Rosedale for the natural escapades around Treyburn, or trading the diverse culinary scene of Brundage Lane for Lakewood's eclectic eats, Durham's neighborhoods promise to make you feel at home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Bakersfield to Durham

Moving from Bakersfield, CA to Durham, NC presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of both the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Understanding the pros and cons of each city will help you make a well-informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Poor air quality
  • Higher crime rates
  • Extreme heat in summer
  • Limited cultural attractions
  • Less diverse economy
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Lower crime rates
  • Mild climate
  • Vibrant arts community
  • Strong job market
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Higher living costs
  • Far from the coast
  • Smaller green spaces
  • More traffic
  • Different social dynamics
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Affordable living
  • Proximity to LA
  • Spacious outdoors
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Strong community feeling

Despite Bakersfield's affordable living and proximity to Los Angeles, its poor air quality and higher crime rates push many to seek alternatives. Durham, in contrast, offers a milder climate and a strong job market, particularly in the Research Triangle Park area, known for its pivotal role in technology, research, and healthcare industries. But what truly sets Durham apart is its rich cultural scene and vibrant arts community, with venues like the Durham Performing Arts Center and the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University offering a plethora of events and exhibitions. Durham's culinary scene, highlighted by restaurants such as Pizzeria Toro and Mateo Bar de Tapas, offers diverse dining options that cater to all tastes. While you might find the cost of living higher and the green spaces smaller in Durham, the city's lower crime rates, and community ambiance present a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Bakersfield to Durham

This comparison of the local cuisine between Bakersfield & Durham explores the food culture that defines each city. Understanding the local cuisine is a critical aspect of getting to know what life will be like in your new home, enabling you to seamlessly transition into the local scene.

BakersfieldDurham

Most iconic local food item

Tri-tipNorth Carolina BBQ

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaPulled Pork

Most popular street food item

TacosFood Truck Burgers

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastBBQ Jackfruit

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Wool Growers
  • Luigi's
  • Noriega's
  • Poole's Diner
  • Nana's
  • Dame's Chicken & Waffles

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

68

Abundance of Food Trucks

79

Foodie Scene

68

Vegan Friendly

58

In Bakersfield, the culinary scene combines innovative California cuisine with traditional comfort foods, such as the beloved Tri-tip and Carne Asada, often found at local hotspots like Wool Growers and Luigi's. Moving to Durham, you'll discover a shift towards Southern and fusion foods, with North Carolina BBQ and Pulled Pork taking the spotlight. Durham's food truck scene, notably richer, provides a unique take on traditional dishes, as seen with BBQ Jackfruit options that cater to the growing vegan population. Both cities offer a distinct dining experience reflective of their geographical and cultural influences, yet Durham outshines with a more pronounced foodie culture and a stronger focus on health-conscious eating.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Bakersfield to Durham

Making a move between cities can be daunting, but finding new go-to spots for dining out can turn a new place into home sweet home. This comparison will help make moving from Bakersfield to Durham feel like bringing a piece of your old culinary home with you . Whether it's upscale dining, casual eats, or those unique foodie spots, we've got you covered. Let's delve into the top restaurants in Bakersfield and their closest counterparts in Durham.

24th Street CafeParker and Otis

Classic American breakfast and brunch with a Southern twist

Luigi’s Restaurant & DelicatessenMateo Bar de Tapas

Both offer a cozy family feel with unique, high-quality dishes

Hodel’s Country DiningElmo’s Diner

Both are iconic, offering a homestyle dining experience with a rich history

Wool Growers RestaurantPlates Neighborhood Kitchen

Authentic, comfort food with a local emphasis

Uricchio’s TrattoriaGocciolina

Italian eateries focusing on traditional dishes with a sophisticated ambiance

Zaika Indian CuisineViceroy

Both are celebrated for their authentic Indian cuisine and vibrant atmosphere

Lengthwise Brewing CompanyFullsteam Brewery

Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the focus on local ingredients and unique brews

Pyrenees CaféGeer Street Garden

Both provide a casual, welcoming outdoor dining experience

Firestone GrillBull City Burger and Brewery

Renowned for their burgers and a commitment to locally sourced ingredients

Tahoe Joe’sPiedmont Restaurant

Both offer a high-end steakhouse experience with a focus on quality

Exploring Durham's dining scene reveals exciting parallels to Bakersfield's varied culinary landscape. For example, the cozy family vibes and top-quality offerings of Mateo Bar de Tapas echo what you have come to love at Luigi’s Restaurant & Delicatessen. Meanwhile, Gocciolina in Durham mirrors the sophisticated Italian ambiance and traditional dishes that Uricchio’s Trattoria prides itself on. For those who cherish the blend of local brews and a community feel, Fullsteam Brewery offers a similar commitment to locality and innovation in their brews as seen at Lengthwise Brewing Company. These and many other equivalences ensure your transition to Durham is filled with deliciously comforting and familiar dining experiences.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Bakersfield to Durham

Real estate is a crucial component when moving. Understanding how Bakersfield and Durham match up in terms of housing can greatly influence your decision. This comparison delves into prices, styles, and livability, providing a clear picture of what to expect.

When comparing Bakersfield and Durham , it's clear that both cities offer unique living experiences rooted in their distinct characteristics. Durham, with its higher walkability and bikeability scores, indicates a more urban and accessible lifestyle than Bakersfield. The architectural styles also speak to the cities' regional histories—Bakersfield's modern and ranch-style homes contrast with Durham's colonial and craftsman influences, reflecting Durham's rich historical tapestry. Notably, the slight difference in median home prices and monthly rent suggests comparable living costs, although the higher urban score in Durham might appeal to those seeking a busier, more connected community lifestyle. Moreover, the items popularly mentioned in real estate listings highlight what residents value in each city—from Bakersfield’s emphasis on large backyards and pools to Durham’s appreciation for historic features and proximity to research institutions.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Bakersfield to Durham

When planning a move from Bakersfield, CA to Durham, NC, understanding how the weather will change is crucial. This comparison helps you grasp the differences in climate, air quality, and seasonal challenges you'll face in your new home.

Summer icon
94°F / 66°F

Bakersfield, CA

89°F / 71°F

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
55°F / 39°F

Bakersfield, CA

50°F / 32°F

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
6.5

Bakersfield, CA

41.4

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Bakersfield, CA

4

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

In Bakersfield, you'll enjoy more sunshine, but you'll need to cope with poor air quality and lower humidity. Moving to Durham, expect higher humidity levels and more rainfall, which might mean adjusting your outdoor and gardening activities. Although Bakersfield rarely experiences significant rainfall or snow, Durham gets a modest amount of snowfall, offering a mild but distinct winter experience. Be prepared for the seasonal changes in allergies due to different prevalent allergens in each area.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Bakersfield to Durham

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape in Bakersfield will stack up against Durham. This comparison will help you assess how your finances might adjust and what economic factors to prepare for in your new home.

Moving from Bakersfield to Durham will present a notable financial shift, primarily due to the differences in state income tax, with North Carolina offering a significantly lower rate than California. This could potentially offer you more disposable income despite the average household income being slightly lower in Durham. Moreover, the cost of living index is more favorable in Durham, making your everyday expenses potentially less burdensome. It's also important to note the vibrancy of the top industries in each city, as this can directly affect employment opportunities and the general economic environment you'll be moving into. Durham's inclination towards educational services and healthcare signals a robust market for professionals in these fields.

Political & Religious Comparison between Bakersfield, CA and Durham, NC

When planning your move from Bakersfield, CA to Durham, NC, understanding the local landscape is crucial. This includes getting a quick glance at the comparison of the politics between Bakersfield & Durham and what you can expect in terms of religious communities. It's more than just neighborhoods and job prospects; it's about knowing the cultural and social climate that you're moving into.

BakersfieldDurham

Political Make-up

ConservativeLiberal

Local Politics

Republican leaningDemocratic leaning

Religion

Christian majorityDiverse, with a strong progressive religious community

Moving between these cities, you're transitioning from a conservative, Republican-leaning area to a more liberal, Democratic-leaning environment. Bakersfield's political landscape has traditionally been conservative with a significant Christian community presence, influencing local politics and community events. Contrastingly, Durham is known for its liberal stance, underpinned by a diverse religious scene that includes progressive religious groups alongside traditional faith communities. This switch reflects not only in the voting patterns but also in the social and cultural activities that define each city's character. Understanding these differences will help you adapt to your new community in Durham more effortlessly.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Bakersfield to Durham

Moving from Bakersfield, CA to Durham, NC, it's essential to understand the differences in daily commuting experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Bakersfield & Durham will help you adjust to your new city more smoothly.

BakersfieldDurham
2522

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

64

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

46

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

NoYes, with some planning

Can you get by without a car?

When relocating from Bakersfield to Durham, you'll find that both cities exhibit distinct commuting and transportation characteristics. Bakersfield has a commute time slightly longer than Durham, likely influenced by its traffic congestion score, which is higher than Durham's. Durham shines in terms of public transit availability, making it more feasible for residents to rely less on personal vehicles. Furthermore, while getting around without a car in Bakersfield can be challenging, Durham offers more flexibility, albeit with careful planning. This distinction highlights Durham's efforts in developing accessible and convenient public transportation options for its residents.

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