Best Durham to Bakersfield Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Embarking on a move from the scholarly vibes of Durham, NC, to the sun-kissed fields of Bakersfield, CA, marks a thrilling chapter in your life. You're leaving behind the Bull City's renowned academia and vibrant cultural scene for the oil-rich landscapes and country music beats of "Nashville West." Given the vast distance and the life shift this move signifies, it's critical to entrust your belongings to professional movers who are not just reliable, but the best. At Great Guys Moving, we leverage an unbiased ranking algorithm to ensure you're matched with top-tier movers, making your transition as smooth as possible.
Best Durham to Bakersfield Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh Moving Company | 9.43 | NR | Active | Contact |
| Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Capital Moving & Storage | 9.27 | NR | Authorized For 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 |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Bakersfield to Durham guide.
5 Best Durham to Bakersfield Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 >>
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving ExpertsAbout 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 >>
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years...Read More >>
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
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
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.
Durham vs. Bakersfield Neighborhood Comparison
Making a big move can be daunting, especially when you're unfamiliar with your new city's layout. Let this guide serve as a bridge to help you transition smoothly. By comparing the local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Bakersfield, CA , we aim to make you feel right at home in no time. Using Durham's popular neighborhoods as a baseline, we've matched them with their closest counterparts in Bakersfield, considering factors like atmosphere, amenities, and community vibe.
| Durham | Bakersfield | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Trinity Park | Westchester | Historic charm, leafy streets |
| Old West Durham | Haggin Oaks | Vibrant community, similar vibe |
| Woodcroft | Seven Oaks | Family-friendly, plenty of green space |
| Hope Valley | Olive Drive Area | Upscale living, golf courses nearby |
| Watts-Hillandale | Laurelglen | Quaint, with a strong sense of community |
| Duke Park | Stockdale Estates | Parks, family-oriented |
| Cleveland-Holloway | Rosedale | Rich history, unique homes |
| Treyburn | Grand Island | Exclusive, golf community |
| American Village | Tevis Ranch | Active community, modern amenities |
| Morehead Hill | Southern Oaks | Picturesque, historic homes |
In Durham, neighborhoods like Trinity Park and Watts-Hillandale are treasured for their historic charm and tight-knit communities, much like Westchester and Laurelglen in Bakersfield. If you're drawn to Woodcroft for its family-friendly atmosphere and ample green spaces, you'll find a similar vibe in Seven Oaks, known for its well-maintained parks and community activities. For those valuing the upscale lifestyle of Hope Valley, Bakersfield's Olive Drive Area offers luxury living with the added benefit of beautiful golf courses nearby. This comparison not only highlights the physical similarities between these neighborhoods but also underscores the essence of community and lifestyle that you'll likely find transitioning from Durham to Bakersfield.
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 Durham to Bakersfield
Moving from one city to another brings a blend of changes, challenges, and opportunities. Through a comparison of Durham, NC, and Bakersfield, CA, this guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the relocation from Durham to Bakersfield, highlighting both the good and the bad aspects of this major life change.
Durham, NC- Higher humidity
- Fewer sunny days
- Less ethnic cuisine
- Smaller city
Bakersfield, CA- Lower humidity
- More sunny days
- More ethnic cuisine
- Larger city area
Bakersfield, CA- Hotter summers
- Dustier environment
- Scarce greenery
- Higher living costs
Durham, NC- Diverse academic community
- Rich cultural scene
- Lush green spaces
- Lower cost of living
While Durham boasts a diverse academic community thanks to institutions like Duke University, with cultural hubs such as Durham Performing Arts Center and lush parks like Durham Central Park, Bakersfield answers with its unique blend of culinary diversity, offering a tapestry of flavors from establishments like Luigi's Deli and ethnic festivals celebrating the area's rich cultural montage. Although Bakersfield may present challenges like hotter summers and a dustier environment due to its valley location, it compensates with more sunny days, encouraging outdoor activities in places like Kern County’s Hart Park. Each city has its character, challenges, and charm, shaping your experience differently based on personal preferences and lifestyle.
Durham vs. Bakersfield Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Bakersfield to help you appreciate what each place has to offer in terms of food. Understanding the local food scene is essential for getting a full picture of what life will be like in your new city.
| Durham | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Carolina BBQ | Tri-tip |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Food Trucks Varieties | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ | Vegan Mexican Cuisine |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Durham, the Carolina BBQ and its famous pulled pork dishes served at iconic spots like Poole's Diner reflect the rich culinary tradition of the area. The city's abundance of food trucks and vegan-friendly options, such as jackfruit BBQ, cater to a diverse range of tastes and dietary needs. On the other hand, Bakersfield's Tri-tip and Carne Asada highlight the influence of Californian and Mexican cuisines. Restaurants like Luigi's Deli and Noriega Hotel offer a taste of the local flavor, emphasizing the city's unique blend of cultures. Exploring these food scenes provides a delicious way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Durham vs. Bakersfield Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can stir a mix of emotions, and finding comfort in a new town often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison between Durham and Bakersfield aims to ease the transition by guiding you to familiar flavors and new favorites that match your culinary preferences from back home. Whether you're in search of gourmet experiences or cozy diners, this handy guide will serve as your gastronomic compass in Bakersfield.
| Durham | Bakersfield | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Mateo Bar de Tapas | Café Smitten | Cozy ambiance with a diverse menu slightly leaning towards Spanish influence |
| Pizzeria Toro | Cubbies Chicago Style Pizza | Both offer a unique take on pizza with high-quality, fresh ingredients |
| Nana's Restaurant | The Belvedere Room | Offers a comparable upscale dining experience with a meticulous approach to cuisine |
| Bull City Burger and Brewery | Lengthwise Brewing Company | Known for craft brews and burgers, a solid casual yet quality dining spot |
| Foster's Market | Dewar's Candy Shop | Although more known for sweets, it offers a casual diner vibe with homemade comfort foods |
| Joe Van Gogh | Dagny's Coffee Company | A community staple coffee shop with a strong local vibe and high-quality coffee |
| Saltbox Seafood Joint | Noriega's | Local establishment known for seafood with a Bakersfield twist |
| Guglhupf Bakery, Café & Biergarten | Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen | Delightful spot for baked goods, deli offerings, and a touch of European flair |
| Elmo's Diner | 24th Street Café | Both are beloved local diners known for their hearty breakfasts and lunches |
| Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken | Camino Real Kitchen & Tequila | Offers an exciting and flavorful array of Latin American cuisine |
Exploring the culinary landscape of Bakersfield, you'll find that Café Smitten and Cubbies Chicago Style Pizza mirror the vibrant dining scene of Durham, offering unique flavors and a welcoming ambiance. Café Smitten serves as a cozy nook for those missing Mateo Bar de Tapas, with its slightly Spanish-influenced menu and casual setting, whereas Cubbies Chicago Style Pizza delivers with its fresh take on the classic dish, reminiscent of Pizzeria Toro's innovative approach. On the more upscale side, The Belvedere Room provides a dining experience on par with Nana's Restaurant, emphasizing the careful preparation and presentation of dishes. Across these establishments, whether you're in the mood for a laid-back coffee shop vibe akin to Joe Van Gogh found at Dagny's Coffee Company, or seeking a special dining experience that reminds you of home, Bakersfield's culinary offerings make it easier to acclimate to your new surroundings without having to sacrifice the flavors you love.
Ready to start your move?
Durham vs. Bakersfield Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal component of relocating, providing the backdrop to daily life. Understanding how Durham, NC and Bakersfield, CA stack up in terms of housing options will illuminate the contrasts and similarities crucial for an informed move. This comparison sheds light on aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Durham | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Ranch, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic neighborhoods, proximity to research universities | Family-friendly, spacious backyards |
When delving deeper into the housing landscape of Durham and Bakersfield, it's evident that both cities cater to distinct lifestyles, reflected in their real estate. In Durham, the charm of historic neighborhoods and the proximity to major universities like Duke University enhance its appeal, particularly for those in academia or seeking a blend of colonial and craftsman-style homes. Conversely, Bakersfield's emphasis on spacious, family-friendly backyards and modern ranch-style houses caters to those prioritizing room to grow and a more laid-back, suburban experience. Although both cities have relatively similar costs of living, the slightly higher median home prices and rent in Durham are offset by its richer cultural scene and urban lifestyle score, indicating a more vibrant city life compared to Bakersfield's quieter, sprawling suburban feel.
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.
Durham vs. Bakersfield Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Durham, NC to Bakersfield, CA, it's crucial to understand the differences in weather you'll encounter. This comparison will illuminate how the climate varies significantly between Durham and Bakersfield, ensuring you're prepared for your new environment.
Durham, NC
Bakersfield, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Bakersfield, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Bakersfield, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Durham, NC
Bakersfield, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Durham | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Durham to Bakersfield means adapting to a drier climate, as Bakersfield experiences over 272 days of sunshine annually compared to Durham's 213. You'll encounter less humidity in Bakersfield, which might be a relief during the hot summers, where temperatures can soar higher than in Durham. However, be prepared for a drastic decrease in rainfall, which contributes to Bakersfield's risk of wildfires—an adjustment from the hurricane and tornado alerts common in Durham. Additionally, the air quality in Bakersfield might be different due to its geographical and industrial factors, affecting those with respiratory issues or seasonal allergies differently.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Bakersfield
When relocating from Durham, NC to Bakersfield, CA, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living, taxes, and average incomes between Durham and Bakersfield will affect your finances. This comparison will help you understand the economic landscape of your new city in relation to what you're accustomed to.
| Comparison | Durham | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $71,343 | $66,666 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 103.4 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 8.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Care, Tech | Oil, Agriculture, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | High | Higher |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
While both Durham and Bakersfield feature moderate levels of affluence and significant homelessness issues, there are notable differences in their economic landscapes. Bakersfield presents a slightly higher average household income, which might be attributed to its core industries of oil, agriculture, and manufacturing. However, California's higher state income and sales taxes can noticeably impact your take-home pay and spending habits compared to North Carolina. Additionally, despite Bakersfield having a lower average property tax rate, the overall cost of living is marginally higher. Understanding these nuances will better prepare you for the financial transition and may influence your decision on housing, spending, and saving in your new city.
Durham vs. Bakersfield Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison between Durham & Bakersfield provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents, offering an at-a-glance view for those considering the move.
| Durham | Bakersfield | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Conservative |
| Local Politics | Democratic Dominance | Republican Lean |
| Religion | Progressive, Diverse Faith Communities | Traditional, Evangelical Christian Majority |
While Durham is known for its progressive and liberal stance, reflected in its Democratic dominance in local politics, Bakersfield represents a more conservative and Republican lean, particularly in local governance. The religious landscape between the two cities also presents a stark contrast, with Durham hosting a variety of progressive and diverse faith communities, while Bakersfield holds a majority of traditional, evangelical Christian followers. Understanding these differences can help you better gauge the social and cultural environment of your new home.
Durham vs. Bakersfield Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when moving from one city to another. This guide compares the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Bakersfield to help you better grasp what driving and transiting might look like in your new city.
| Comparison | Durham | Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | With difficulty | Challenging |
In Durham, the average commute time is slightly shorter, and traffic congestion is perceived to be less of an issue compared to Bakersfield. While both cities share challenges regarding the necessity of a car for daily errands, Durham scores higher in terms of public transit availability. This suggests that although getting by without a car in Durham is difficult, it's more feasible compared to Bakersfield, where the public transit system might not cater to all your needs efficiently. Making an informed decision about where to live can significantly affect your daily routine, especially in cities where traffic and commute times differ.
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Nearby Moving Routes
