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Tampa to Bakersfield Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from Tampa, the sunny "Cigar City," to Bakersfield, California's undisputed "Country Music Capital," represents a thrilling new chapter in your life. While you might miss Tampa's vibrant beaches and bustling nightlife, Bakersfield awaits with its unique blend of musical heritage and a more laid-back lifestyle. Understanding the complexity and distance of this move, it’s crucial for you to entrust your belongings to professional movers. Our service, Great Guys Moving, rigorously ranks the country's best moving companies to ensure you connect with only the most trusted and reliable teams for your coast-to-coast journey.

5 Best Movers for Moving from Tampa to Bakersfield

#1
Let's Get Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,825+ data points

St. Petersburg, FL
Commercial moving services, Residential moving services, Local moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 2270761 Verify

About Let's Get Moving

This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida moving ...Read More >>

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#2
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Exceptional

based on 5,201+ data points

New Port Richey, FL
Local moving, Junk removal, Storage See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/17/2023)

USDOT: 3207889 Verify

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck is a full-service, national moving company in Florida with over 35 years of experience. With a comprehensive range of se...Read More >>

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#3
Hello Movers Logo
Very Good

based on 808+ data points

Land O' Lakes, FL
Local Moving, Packing & Unpacking, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 3338540 Verify

About Hello Movers

For Tampa Bay’s top-rated movers, look no further than Hello Movers. This team has years of field experience and can handle any job, from re...Read More >>

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#4
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 5/23/2024)

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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#5
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 5/23/2024)

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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Relocating from Tampa to Bakersfield Neighborhood Guide

Embarking on a move can be a daunting experience, especially when relocating to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've meticulously compared popular neighborhoods in Tampa, FL & Bakersfield, CA to help you find a comparable area that resonates with your current lifestyle and preferences. This guide serves as a bridge to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings, using your existing neighborhood as a baseline.

TampaBakersfield
Hyde ParkWestchester

Historic charm, vibrant community

South TampaSeven Oaks

Upscale living, family-friendly

Seminole HeightsLaurelglen

Eclectic vibe, community-centric

Ybor CityDowntown Bakersfield

Rich history, nightlife

ChannelsideRiverlakes

Modern amenities, water views

Bayshore BeautifulStockdale Estates

Scenic views, peaceful living

Davis IslandsHaggin Oaks

Exclusive feel, upscale amenities

Palma CeiaOlde Stockdale

Prestigious golf community, serene

Tampa PalmsThe Oaks

Spacious homes, outdoor living

WestchaseBrimhall Estates

Family-oriented, abundant parks

In your journey from Tampa, FL to Bakersfield, CA, discovering the right neighborhood is pivotal. For instance, if Hyde Park's historic charm won your heart in Tampa, Westchester's vibrant community and dedication to preservation in Bakersfield will make you feel right at home. Ybor City's fans will find the rich history and bustling nightlife of Downtown Bakersfield similarly enthralling, with attractions like the Fox Theater adding to its allure. Channelside's modern living finds its counterpart in Riverlakes, where the blend of upscale amenities and beautiful water views offer a serene yet connected lifestyle. Whether it's the serene, family-oriented ambiance of Westchase mirrored in Brimhall Estates with its spacious parks like Riverwalk Park, or the exclusive feel of Davis Islands reflected in the upscale community of Haggin Oaks, Bakersfield harbors neighborhoods that cater to a plethora of tastes and needs, ensuring your transition can be as smooth and welcoming as possible.

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Things to Do in Bakersfield

  • Explore Buena Vista Museum of Natural History
  • Attend a concert at Mechanics Bank Arena
  • Enjoy family fun at Camelot Park
  • Sample local wines at Kern County Wine Country
  • Ride bikes along Kern River Parkway Trail
  • Stroll through Kern County Museum
  • Watch a race at Kern County Raceway Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Tampa to Bakersfield

Moving from Tampa, FL to Bakersfield, CA, merits a balanced examination of the challenges and advantages you might face. This introspective look provides a realistic understanding of both the positive and negative aspects of such a relocation, ensuring you can make an informed decision suited to your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Tampa, FL iconTampa, FL
  • High humidity
  • Hurricane risk
  • Bug problems
  • Hot summers
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Dryer climate
  • Less natural disasters
  • Fewer pests
  • Milder summers
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • No beaches
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Desert landscape
  • Slightly higher costs
Tampa, FL iconTampa, FL
  • Beach access
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Lush landscapes
  • Lower cost of living

Moving from Tampa's lush, subtropical environment to Bakersfield's dryer climate can be quite a transition. In Tampa, you might be used to the humid air and the constant presence of water, whether it's the bay or the rain. Plus, the risk of hurricanes is something residents learn to live with. Bakersfield, on the other hand, offers a reprieve with its dry climate and significantly fewer pests, a welcome change for many. However, if you're someone who loves the beach, trading the Gulf Coast for the inland desert landscape of Bakersfield can be a tough adjustment. But for those looking to escape the humidity and seek out new adventures in a city ripe with opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking in the Sequoia National Forest, this move could be exactly what you're looking for. Bakersfield also boasts unique attractions like the Bakersfield Museum of Art, a vibrant downtown area, and an evolving culinary scene worth exploring.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Tampa to Bakersfield

This comparison of the local cuisine between Tampa & Bakersfield is designed to give you a flavorful insight into what culinary delights await you in your new city. Understanding the food scene is crucial to feeling at home and embracing the local culture where you're moving.

TampaBakersfield

Most iconic local food item

Cuban SandwichTri-tip

Most popular meat dish

Gator TailCarne Asada

Most popular street food item

EmpanadasTacos

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit TacosVegan Burritos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Columbia Restaurant
  • Bern's Steak House
  • Ella's Americana Folk Art Cafe
  • Wool Growers
  • Luigi's Deli and Market
  • Pyrenees Café

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

76

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene

97

Vegan Friendly

86

In Tampa, the Cuban Sandwich is a legendary item that can be found in historic Ybor City, where its rich Cuban heritage influences much of the local cuisine. Places like the Columbia Restaurant, an icon for over a century, offer a taste of this history. Meanwhile, in Bakersfield, the BBQ culture is epitomized by the tri-tip, a cut of beef that's uniquely Californian. The city's vibrant Mexican food scene, featuring tacos from street food vendors and traditional dishes like carne asada in local restaurants, reflects its significant Mexican-American population. Wool Growers, a local Basque restaurant, and Luigi's Deli and Market highlight Bakersfield's diverse food offerings. Whether you're moving from Tampa to Bakersfield, you'll find a new culinary world to explore.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Tampa to Bakersfield

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to eating spots. This restaurant comparison between Tampa, FL and Bakersfield, CA is crafted to ease your transition by linking you to familiar tastes and dining experiences. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to find your next favorite eateries, making anywhere feel like home.

Bern's Steak HouseThe Belvedere Room

Upscale dining experience with an emphasis on steaks and fine wines

UleleWool Growers

Traditional, family-style Basque dining that matches Ulele's emphasis on local history and culture

La Segunda Central BakerySmith's Bakeries

Offering a variety of baked goods that have been pleasing locals for generations, similar to La Segunda's iconic status in Tampa

Columbia RestaurantLuigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen

Family-owned, offers a blend of timeless classic and authentic flavors reminiscent of Columbia's Spanish cuisine

Datz24th Street Cafe

Known for its hearty, American comfort food with a creative twist, mirroring Datz's playful menu

Armature WorksTemuera

A food hub offering diverse culinary experiences, from casual bites to fine dining, similar to Armature Works' setup

Eddie V's Prime SeafoodValentien Restaurant & Wine Bar

Offers sophisticated seafood dishes and an extensive wine list, akin to Eddie V's refined ambiance

Oxford ExchangeCafe Smitten

Combines café culture with curated shopping, providing a similar vibe of community and lifestyle as Oxford Exchange

Rooster & the TillDot x Ott

A spot for foodies seeking fresh, farm-to-table meals, paralleling the creative and modern culinary approach of Rooster & the Till

Frenchy's Rockaway GrillSandrini's Public House

Offers the laid-back, beachy vibe and fresh seafood flavors reminiscent of Frenchy's Rockaway Grill in Tampa

Exploring the culinary scene in a new city is an adventure that brings a sense of home. For instance, if you’ve enjoyed the upscale, immersive dining experience at Bern's Steak House in Tampa, The Belvedere Room in Bakersfield will cater to your love for refined steaks and wines. Similarly, those who find comfort in the unique, Spanish-infused dining at Columbia Restaurant can look forward to an authentic, family-owned charm at Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen. Each establishment not only serves as a pillar in its community but also offers familiar culinary delights that bridge the gap between Tampa and Bakersfield, warming you up to your new surroundings one plate at a time.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Tampa to Bakersfield

Real estate is a crucial factor when considering a relocation. Understanding how the housing markets, costs, and lifestyles of Tampa, FL and Bakersfield, CA compare will equip you with the necessary information to make an informed decision. This comparison seeks to illuminate the various aspects of housing in these cities.

Moving from Tampa, FL to Bakersfield, CA brings notable changes in housing costs and lifestyle. Tampa's housing market is slightly more expensive, both in terms of purchasing and renting properties. However, it offers a more urban lifestyle, with greater walkability and bikeability, which aligns with its mix of modern and Mediterranean architecture styles. In contrast, Bakersfield leans towards a more suburban feel, reflected in its preference for ranch and modern architecture styles, with larger backyards mentioned frequently in real estate listings. This shift emphasizes the importance of considering how daily life and accessibility can change with a move, beyond just the cost of housing.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Bakersfield, CA

1. Seven Oaks: Known for its spacious parks and walking trails, it's a paradise where your pets can play and socialize freely.

2. Riverlakes: Offers pet-friendly community events and has several dog parks nearby, making it ideal for pet owners.

3. Olive Drive Area: This neighborhood boasts quiet streets and access to the Kern River Parkway, perfect for long walks or runs with your furry friends.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Tampa to Bakersfield

Moving from one city to another requires adjusting not just to a new environment but also to a different climate. Understanding how the weather compares between Tampa, FL and Bakersfield, CA is essential for a smoother transition. The purpose of the charts is to highlight the weather differences one might experience when moving from Tampa to Bakersfield.

Summer icon
90°F / 75°F

Tampa, FL

98°F / 66°F

Bakersfield, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
70°F / 52°F

Tampa, FL

55°F / 38°F

Bakersfield, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50"

Tampa, FL

6.47"

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

Tampa, FL

0"

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Tampa to Bakersfield, you'll notice a significant change in both temperature ranges and humidity levels—Bakersfield is hotter in the summer and colder in winter but with much less humidity than Tampa. This can affect your day-to-day comfort and may influence the type of home heating and cooling systems you'll need. Also, Bakersfield enjoys more sunny days but be aware of the different natural disaster risks and air quality changes. Adapting to a drier climate might also impact your health, especially concerning allergies. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for life in California, ensuring a smoother adaptation process.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from Tampa, FL to Bakersfield, CA, it's crucial to understand how the financial landscape will change. By comparing key money and finance areas such as average household income, cost of living, and tax rates, you can better prepare for your new life.

Moving from Tampa to Bakersfield presents a notable shift in financial circumstances. While the average household income is higher in Bakersfield, the cost of living and sales tax rates also see an increase. This highlights the importance of budgeting more carefully for daily and monthly expenses. The absence of state income tax in Florida compared to California's tiered tax system can significantly impact your take-home pay. Additionally, the key industries differ greatly between the two cities, offering unique job opportunities relevant to their primary sectors. Being aware of these changes can pave the way for a smoother financial transition.

Political & Religious Comparison between Tampa, FL and Bakersfield, CA

This comparison of the politics between Tampa & Bakersfield aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities. The information will help you understand the cultural and ideological environment you’re moving into.

TampaBakersfield

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticLean Republican

Local Politics

Progressive PoliciesConservative Policies

Religion

Mixed, with significant Christian influenceStrongly Christian, evangelical presence

When comparing the political climates of Tampa and Bakersfield, you'll find that Tampa generally leans Democratic with more progressive local politics, which reflects in policies and local government actions. In contrast, Bakersfield leans Republican with a conservative approach to local governance. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, though Tampa offers a more diverse religious landscape. Bakersfield has a more pronounced Christian evangelical presence, which influences local culture and community events. Understanding these dynamics can help you navigate your new home with more insight.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Tampa to Bakersfield

Moving from Tampa, FL to Bakersfield, CA introduces unique changes in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tampa & Bakersfield is designed to help you adjust smoothly to your new city.

TampaBakersfield
2622

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

64

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

43

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

NoNo

Can you get by without car?

When you move from Tampa to Bakersfield, you'll notice a slight decrease in your average commute time - from 26 minutes down to 22 minutes. Although both cities have their share of traffic congestion, Bakersfield tends to be slightly more manageable. However, it's important to note that both locations score low on public transit availability, suggesting a dependency on personal vehicles for daily commuting. Despite this, adapting to your new traffic environment in Bakersfield might be a bit easier thanks to the lighter congestion. Keep in mind that regardless of the city, having access to a car remains a necessity for comfortably navigating your day-to-day errands and work commitments.

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