Moving from Bakersfield to Salem?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Bakersfield to Salem Movers

Moving city to city marks the start of an exciting chapter in your life, brimming with new opportunities and adventures. Leaving behind Bakersfield, with its oil fields and country music, for Salem's lush landscapes and rich history, heralds a significant lifestyle shift. Recognizing the importance of this transition, we emphasize the need for you to choose trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring the journey to your new home in Salem goes as smoothly as possible.

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

5 Best Bakersfield to Salem Movers

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

#1
Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 605+ data points

Oregon City, OR
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Senior Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT: 1999959 Verify

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland Metro...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in salem 2023 northwest grace moving image
top 10 ranked movers in salem 2022 northwest grace moving image
#2
All Service Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 9,065+ data points

Portland, OR
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1863079 Verify

About All Service Moving

Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By using a ...Read More >>

top 10 salem 2024 all service moving image
top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 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
top 3 ranked movers in bakersfield 2022 excel relocation systems image
#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
top 10 ranked movers in bakersfield 2022 hansens moving storage inc image
#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 >>

top 10 ranked movers in bakersfield 2023 meathead movers image
top 3 ranked movers in bakersfield 2022 meathead movers image
top 3 ranked movers in bakersfield 2021 meathead movers image

Relocating from Bakersfield to Salem Neighborhood Guide

When moving to a new city, it’s essential to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide is designed to compare Bakersfield, CA & Salem, OR local neighborhoods to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by using what you know. We’ll match top neighborhoods from Bakersfield with their Salem counterparts, aiming to make your transition as smooth as possible.

BakersfieldSalem
Seven OaksIlliahe Hills

Upscale, golf-centered community

RosedaleWest Salem

Family-friendly, suburban vibe

Haggin OaksBroadway

Historic homes, community-oriented

Stockdale EstatesSunnyslope

Large lots, mature landscaping

The OaksFairmount Park

Quiet, near parks and schools

Oleander/SunsetGrant

Diverse, vibrant, with unique charm

LaurelglenMorningside

Established, with a sense of community

Tevis RanchFaye Wright

Family-oriented, with access to amenities

Stockdale Country ClubSalem Golf Club area

Prestigious, private community feeling

PanamaSouth Gateway

Commercially active, easily accessible

In the bustling neighborhood of Haggin Oaks in Bakersfield, which is known for its historic homes and community-focused atmosphere, you'll find a similar vibe in Salem's Broadway area. Broadway is well-regarded for its historic charm and strong sense of community, offering residents a mix of residential comfort and local conveniences. If you appreciate the lush, wide-open spaces and golf-centric lifestyle of Seven Oaks, you'll be drawn to Illiahe Hills in Salem. It’s not just about upscale living; both neighborhoods offer access to premier golf courses, making them a golfer’s paradise. On the more family-oriented side, Rosedale's suburban feel closely matches that of West Salem, where the emphasis on community and family-friendly amenities make it an ideal place for settling down. In these selected neighborhoods, you can expect a variety of parks, restaurants, and sights, catering to a spectrum of interests and lifestyles, ensuring your new city feels like home.

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Things to Do in Salem

  • Stroll through the colorful Bush's Pasture Park
  • Discover gothic horrors at Witch's Castle
  • Visit the Willamette National Forest
  • Book a ticket to an event at El Sinai Center
  • Explore craft brews at Gilgamesh Brewing
  • Enjoy a show at Elsinore Theatre
  • Join a Salem Saturday Market

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Bakersfield to Salem

Moving can be a complex decision filled with various factors to consider. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Bakersfield, CA to Salem, OR . Through comparing both cities, we hope to uncover the advantages and drawbacks that await you.

CONs
PROs
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Higher summer heat
  • Air quality issues
  • Less greenery
  • Lower walkability
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Milder summer weather
  • Better air quality
  • More parks and forests
  • High walkability
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Higher cost of living
  • Smaller city feel
  • Lesser cuisine diversity
  • Quieter nightlife
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Cost of living
  • Bigger city feel
  • More diverse cuisine
  • Varied nightlife

When considering the move from Bakersfield to Salem, you'll find more than just a change in geography. Salem boasts an array of parks like Minto-Brown Island Park, enhancing your connection with nature and offering pathways for both leisurely walks and more vigorous activities. The air in Salem is noticeably clearer, attributing to its positioning away from dense industrial areas found in Bakersfield. Additionally, the culinary scene in Salem, while perhaps less diverse, is noted for its focus on organic and locally-sourced ingredients, offering a unique dining experience at places like Word of Mouth Bistro. Though Salem might offer a quieter nightlife than Bakersfield, the quality of life, including the emphasis on community and the outdoors, presents a compelling reason for the move.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Bakersfield to Salem

Understanding the flavors of a city is essential in grasping its culture. As you prepare for your move, we'll embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between Bakersfield & Salem, to give you a taste of what each city has to offer. This insight will help you feel right at home in your new surroundings.

BakersfieldSalem

Most iconic local food item

Basque foodMarionberry pie

Most popular meat dish

Tri-tipPinot Noir braised beef

Most popular street food item

TacosFood truck burgers

Most popular vegan food

Avocado toastTempeh stir-fry

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Wool Growers
    2. Luigi's
    3. Noriega's
    1. Word of Mouth Bistro
    2. Bentley's Grill
    3. Rafn's

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

67

Foodie Scene

67

Vegan Friendly

58

In Bakersfield, the local cuisine is deeply influenced by its Basque heritage, offering unique dishes like no other in California. Places like Wool Growers and Luigi's allow newcomers to dive deep into this rich culinary tradition. Over in Salem, the food scene shifts towards the fresh and local, best represented by the iconic Marionberry pie. Vegan and health-conscious eaters will find Salem especially appealing, with restaurants like Rafn's focusing on locally-sourced, organic ingredients. Both cities boast a growing food truck scene, but Salem's slightly higher rating in this area suggests a more vibrant street food culture waiting to be explored.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Bakersfield to Salem

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This guide compares top Bakersfield eateries with their Salem counterparts to help you find your next favorite meal. Comparing restaurants from Bakersfield to Salem will bridge your culinary journey, making the move feel like a gastronomic adventure rather than a daunting task.

24th Street CafeWord of Mouth Bistro

Known for hearty breakfasts and a homely vibe similar to 24th Street Cafe.

Luigi's RestaurantGamberetti's Italian Restaurant

Offers a comparable family-friendly Italian dining experience.

Wool GrowersLa Margarita Co.

Offers traditional dishes with a welcoming atmosphere akin to Wool Growers.

Pyrenees CafeTaproot Lounge & Cafe

Similar laid-back vibe with comfort food that echoes Pyrenees Cafe's casual dining.

Lengthwise Brewing CompanySantiam Brewing Co.

Featuring a selection of crafted beers that parallels the experience at Lengthwise.

Hungry Hunter SteakhouseRudy's Steakhouse

Known for quality steaks and a robust dining experience like Hungry Hunter.

Dewar's Candy ShopWm. Chocolate

While not a direct match, offers high-quality chocolate products reminiscing of Dewar's unique offerings.

Caesar's DeliGerry Frank's Konditorei

Offers sandwiches and sweets that give a nod to the comfort of Caesar's Deli.

Sequoia Sandwich CompanyWord Of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro

Another mention for its sandwiches that compete with Sequoia's quality.

Uricchio's TrattoriaDaVinci Ristorante

Provides an upscale Italian dining experience that matches Uricchio's in quality and atmosphere.

Upon moving from Bakersfield to Salem, you won't miss the varied dining scene you're used to. Salem's Taproot Lounge & Cafe resonates with the casual, yet heartily satisfying meals reminiscent of Pyrenees Cafe's offerings, ensuring your comfort food cravings are well-catered to. Craving a steak dinner? Rudy's Steakhouse in Salem prides itself on its quality cuts and refined dining experience, echoing the cherished memories of Bakersfield's Hungry Hunter Steakhouse. For those special mornings, Word of Mouth Bistro is a perfect choice, offering a breakfast and brunch menu that rivals the homely and satisfying 24th Street Cafe experience. Moving to Salem, you'll find that each meal tells a story of its own, connecting you to your new home through flavors familiar and comforting.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Bakersfield to Salem

Real estate significantly impacts your moving experience, knowing how the two cities compare in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle between Bakersfield, CA and Salem, OR can streamline your transition. Here are some key comparisons to consider.

When comparing Bakersfield and Salem in terms of housing, it's evident that Salem is slightly more expensive, both in terms of median home prices and monthly rent. However, this cost comes with benefits like better walkability and a richer urban lifestyle, scoring 5 and 7 out of 10 respectively. Salem's appeal is further enhanced by its prevalent Victorian and Craftsman architecture, offering charming historical features that are often highlighted in real estate listings. On the other hand, Bakersfield's real estate market is characterized by Ranch style homes, which typically come with large yards and pools, appealing to those looking for more private outdoor space. The decision between the two cities might come down to what you prioritize: Salem’s vibrant urban life and historical charm or Bakersfield’s spacious and private living.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salem, OR

1. West Salem: This area is highly pet-friendly due to its numerous walking trails such as Wallace Marine Park and pet services like Taylor Street OB/GYN Veterinary Clinic.

2. South Salem: Your pet will enjoy South Salem's selection of pet-friendly restaurants and services, including All-In-One Pet Grooming and Garry's Pub which has a pet-friendly patio.

3. Morningside: Known for its large number of dog-friendly parks such as Morningside City Park, this neighborhood also hosts a favorite pet supply store, Petco.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Bakersfield to Salem

Moving from one location to another involves various adjustments, but understanding how the weather compares between Bakersfield, CA, and Salem, OR, is crucial. Knowing the climatic differences will help you prepare for your new environment effectively.

Summer icon
98°F / 66°F

Bakersfield, CA

82°F / 53°F

Salem, OR

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
55°F / 38°F

Bakersfield, CA

47°F / 36°F

Salem, OR

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
6.5

Bakersfield, CA

39.2

Salem, OR

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Bakersfield, CA

3

Salem, OR

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

In transitioning from Bakersfield to Salem, you'll notice significant differences in weather patterns. Salem experiences much milder summers with a considerable drop in both high and low temperatures compared to Bakersfield's intense heat. Additionally, Salem's higher humidity and increased annual rainfall reflect its more temperate, ocean-influenced climate, contrasting with Bakersfield's drier conditions. Prepare for fewer sunny days in Salem, but also for cleaner air, which may be a relief if you're sensitive to air quality. Understanding these changes will help you adapt more smoothly to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning your move from Bakersfield, CA to Salem, OR, grasping the nuances in the financial landscape and cost of living is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on the economic differences between Bakersfield and Salem, helping you align your budget and expectations accordingly.

While Bakersfield boasts a moderately higher average household income compared to Salem, the cost of living and state income tax rates in Salem are slightly higher, suggesting your dollar might stretch differently. However, Salem's lack of sales tax can offer some financial relief, particularly in everyday purchases. The primary industries vary greatly between these two cities, indicating potential shifts in job opportunities and economic focus. Both cities face their own challenges with poverty and homelessness, pointing to broader socio-economic factors at play. Understanding these dynamics can aid in your financial planning and adjustment to your new home in Salem.

Political & Religious Comparison between Bakersfield, CA and Salem, OR

When considering a move from Bakersfield, CA to Salem, OR, understanding the local demographics can provide valuable insights. This comparison of the politics between Bakersfield & Salem and their religious makeup offers a quick glimpse into the dynamics of your potential new home.

BakersfieldSalem

Political Make-up

Conservative-leaningLiberal-leaning

Local Politics

Republican dominance in local electionsDemocratic dominance in local elections

Religion

Higher evangelical Christian presenceMore religious diversity, including Unitarian Universalist and other faiths

In Bakersfield, you'll find a community with a conservative tilt, where Republican candidates often lead in local politics. This is complemented by a significant evangelical Christian presence which shapes the city's cultural and social scene. In contrast, Salem leans more liberal, with Democratic candidates typically dominating local elections. Salem's religious landscape is marked by diversity, offering a wide range of faith communities, including Unitarian Universalists, which reflects the city's inclusive atmosphere. Moving from Bakersfield to Salem, you'll transition into a political and religious environment that may offer new perspectives and opportunities for engagement.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Bakersfield to Salem

Before deciding to move from Bakersfield, CA to Salem, OR, understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between the two cities will prove invaluable in preparing for your daily commute. This comparison aims to give you a better grasp of what to expect on the roads and how public transit measures up in each location.

BakersfieldSalem
2523

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

54

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

46

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

DifficultModerately Easy

Can you get by without car?

When moving from Bakersfield to Salem, you'll likely notice a slight improvement in average commute times, thanks in part to lesser traffic congestion in Salem. The availability and reliance on public transit in Salem are somewhat higher, with services like the Cherriots bus line providing coverage across the city, making it moderately easier to get by without a car compared to Bakersfield. In Bakersfield, the public transit options are more limited, and the city's infrastructure is designed with car travel in mind, making it considerably harder to navigate without personal transportation.

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