Best Seattle to Bakersfield Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Seattle to Bakersfield Movers

Moving from the Emerald City to the Country Music Capital presents an adventure teeming with new possibilities and life changes. You're leaving behind Seattle's drizzle and pioneering spirit for Bakersfield’s sunny skies and melodic twang, a transition that's as colorful as it is significant. Recognizing the pivotal role of dependable hands in such a long journey, we emphasize the importance of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your transition is as smooth as the tunes of Bakersfield.

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Best Seattle to Bakersfield Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Seattle Moves & More9.55A+Authorized For HHGContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.34NRAuthorized For HHGContact
People Movers9.16NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Excel Relocation Systems8.19A+Authorized For HHGContact
Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.8.13A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Bakersfield to Seattle guide.

5 Best Seattle to Bakersfield Moving Companies

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

S
Exceptional9.55/10
based on 1,243+ data points

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its exceptional services...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,571+ data points

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
2
People Movers Logo
Exceptional9.16/10
based on 3,624+ data points

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Excel Relocation Systems Logo
Very Good8.19/10
based on 660+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2911596 / 981013

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Broker

Registered Trucks/Vans22
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved262,226 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc. Logo
Very Good8.13/10
based on 1,379+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/2/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2728836 / 88698

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved12,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Seattle vs. Bakersfield Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we're offering a comparison of Seattle, WA & Bakersfield, CA neighborhoods . This guide aims to mirror your favorite spots in Seattle with comparable neighborhoods in Bakersfield, helping you find your new favorite locale quickly.

SeattleBakersfieldHow They're Similar
BallardSeven OaksFamily-friendly, vibrant dining scene
Capitol HillWestchesterCultural hub, historic architecture
Queen AnneStockdale EstatesUpscale, quiet neighborhood
FremontLaurelglenQuirky local shops, artsy vibe
GreenwoodOlive Drive AreaCozy, community-focused
WallingfordRosedaleFamily-oriented, great schools, parks
West SeattleHaggin OaksSpacious homes, recreational parks
Pioneer SquareDowntown BakersfieldHistorical significance, lively atmosphere
BelltownRiver OaksTrendy eateries, modern living
South Lake UnionThe OaksInnovative businesses, upscale dining

In Ballard, known for its bustling nightlife and vibrant dining scene, Seven Oaks in Bakersfield mirrors a similar energy with family-friendly vibes and a selection of restaurants that make it a culinary hotspot. Similarly, Capitol Hill and Westchester share a rich cultural tapestry, with Westchester exuding old-world charm through its historical sites and architecture. For those drawn to Queen Anne’s upscale ambiance, Stockdale Estates offers a tranquil, refined setting perfect for peaceful living amidst stately homes. Fremont’s artsy eccentricity finds a counterpart in Laurelglen, where creativity flourishes in local shops and annual festivals. Meanwhile, Wallingford’s commitment to excellent education and a strong sense of community is reflected in Rosedale, where families thrive amidst abundant green spaces and top-notch schools. Whether you’re enjoying the serene parks in Haggin Oaks reminiscent of West Seattle or exploring the historic and lively downtown Bakersfield, akin to Pioneer Square, these neighborhoods ensure a smooth transition by connecting you with places that feel like home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Bakersfield

Moving from Seattle, WA to Bakersfield, CA involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad, helping you understand what to expect in terms of lifestyle changes, climate, and opportunities. Through contrasting pros and cons , the purpose of these charts is to highlight significant differences between these two cities, facilitating a smoother transition for potential movers.

CONs
PROs
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • High living costs
  • Frequent rain
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less diversity
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Lower living costs
  • Sunnier climate
  • Lighter traffic
  • More cultural diversity
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Desert landscape
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Less cultural activities
  • Smaller arts community
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Lush landscapes
  • Thriving job market
  • Vibrant culture
  • Richer arts scene

Moving from Seattle to Bakersfield translates into significant changes in your daily environment and lifestyle. While you might miss Seattle's lush parks such as Green Lake, and the diverse culinary scene offering everything from seafood at Pike Place Market to international cuisine in Capitol Hill, Bakersfield has its charm. Bakersfield is known for its unique Basque restaurants, such as Wool Growers, and music venues that contribute to its rich cultural scene. The affordable housing market in Bakersfield allows for a more comfortable living space compared to the often cramped conditions in Seattle. Moreover, moving to Bakersfield introduces you to California's sunnier climate, with plenty of opportunities to explore nearby natural attractions like Kern River. Embracing Bakersfield's smaller but growing arts scene, including the local galleries and theaters such as Stars Theatre, can also lead to discovering a tight-knit and welcoming community.

Seattle vs. Bakersfield Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Bakersfield, two cities with distinct food cultures. Understanding the food scene is essential in appreciating what it's like to live in an area. This comparison aims to better inform you about the gastronomic environment awaiting in your new home.

SeattleBakersfield
Most iconic local food itemSalmonTri-tip
Most popular meat dishPhoCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemTeriyakiTacos
Most popular vegan foodAcai BowlsVegan Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Canlis
  • Rover's
  • Matt's in the Market
  • Wool Growers
  • Luigi's
  • Pyrenees Cafe
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Seattle's culinary scene is diverse, with a significant emphasis on seafood, especially its iconic salmon, and a vibrant community of food trucks and vegan options that mirror its health-conscious mindset. The city's love for Pho reflects its rich cultural diversity. Meanwhile, Bakersfield brings a strong sense of traditional and hearty dishes to the table, particularly its love for Tri-tip and Tacos, indicative of its robust meat-centric and Mexican influences. Both cities offer unique dining experiences, but Bakersfield stakes its claim with establishments like Wool Growers and Luigi's, which are pillars of its cultural and culinary identity. Whether you're moving for the vibrant, health-conscious atmosphere of Seattle or the warm, comfort food haven that is Bakersfield, you're in for a delightful gastronomic journey.

Seattle vs. Bakersfield Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, discovering new culinary delights can turn a new city into home. Through this restaurant comparison from Seattle to Bakersfield , we aim to ease your transition by guiding you towards your next favorite dining spots, leveraging your current favorites in Seattle as a familiar baseline.

SeattleBakersfieldWhat You'll Love
CanlisValentien RestaurantOffers a fine dining experience reminiscent of Canlis with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Pike Place ChowderNuestro MexicoKnown for their savory soups that capture a rich, home-cooked essence similar to Pike Place Chowder.
The Pink DoorUricchio's TrattoriaProvides a cozy Italian dining experience with a charming ambiance akin to The Pink Door.
JuneBabyFamous Dave'sFor a taste of Southern comfort, Famous Dave's serves up dishes with a flair similar to JuneBaby's renowned cuisine.
Matt's in the Market24th Street CafeOffers a diverse menu and a casual dining atmosphere that echoes Matt's commitment to quality and locality.
AlturaPadre HotelFarm-to-table dishes served in an upscale setting, providing a comparable fine dining experience to Altura.
PaseoMoo CreameryAlthough known for its ice cream, it offers inventive sandwiches and casual eats reminiscent of Paseo's Caribbean flavors.
MamnoonFlame and SkewersMiddle Eastern cuisine with an emphasis on traditional flavors and dishes that mirror the quality of Mamnoon.
SalumiFresco Mexican GrillKnown for their artisan sandwiches and a focus on fresh ingredients, akin to the experience at Salumi.
LolaLuigi'sOffers a mix of Mediterranean and Italian fare, capturing the essence of Lola's diverse and flavorful menu.

Experiencing a new city's cuisine is a journey through its culture and tradition, offering a taste of the community's heart. For instance, fans of Seattle's unique Pike Place Chowder will find comfort in Nuestro Mexico's rich and savory soups, crafted with a similar dedication to quality and flavor. Meanwhile, admirers of The Pink Door’s Italian fare can savor a comparable dining experience at Uricchio's Trattoria, where every meal is served with an ambiance that whispers tales of Bakersfield's warm hospitality and culinary prowess. This comparison not only serves as a guide to finding your comfort cuisine in a new town but also highlights how each city's unique culinary scene maintains a connection to broader culinary traditions.

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Seattle vs. Bakersfield Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets between Seattle, WA and Bakersfield, CA is crucial. Understanding the differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle ratings can help you make an informed decision about where to call your new home.

ComparisonSeattleBakersfield
Typical Architecture StyleModern, CraftsmanRanch, Mediterranean
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews, Green SpacesFamily-friendly, Spacious Yards

The discrepancy in housing costs between Seattle and Bakersfield is significant, with Seattle’s median home price being more than double that of Bakersfield's. This difference makes Bakersfield an attractive option for those seeking affordability without sacrificing the perks of urban living. However, Seattle outshines Bakersfield in terms of walkability and urban lifestyle, offering residents easy access to a myriad of restaurants, parks, and cultural spaces. Architecture enthusiasts moving from Seattle might miss the modern and Craftsman styles predominant there but can find solace in Bakersfield's Ranch and Mediterranean homes, often accompanied by spacious yards ideal for families or outdoor enthusiasts.

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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.

Seattle vs. Bakersfield Weather Considerations

Understanding the climate shifts between your current and future homes is crucial. This comparison offers insight into what weather changes you can expect moving from Seattle, WA to Bakersfield, CA . It emphasizes the variations in temperature, humidity, sunshine, and more , ensuring you're well-prepared for your new environment.

Summer icon
75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

98°F / 70°F

Bakersfield, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

55°F / 38°F

Bakersfield, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
37.5"

Seattle, WA

6.5"

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.6"

Seattle, WA

0"

Bakersfield, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSeattleBakersfield
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, VolcanoesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

The transition from Seattle's cooler, wetter climate to Bakersfield's hotter, drier conditions is significant. You'll experience a drastic increase in days of sunshine, from Seattle's 152 days to Bakersfield's 272 days, which might be a welcome change or a challenging adjustment, depending on your preferences. Notably, Bakersfield's summer temperatures soar much higher than in Seattle, making air conditioning a more critical necessity. Additionally, the difference in annual rainfall underscores the dramatic shift from Seattle's lush, green environment to Bakersfield's drier landscapes, highlighting the need for adjustment in your daily life and perhaps even your hobbies, such as gardening or outdoor activities.

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

When planning a move from one city to another, comparing the financial landscape is crucial to avoid surprises. Moving from Seattle, WA to Bakersfield, CA involves significant changes in the cost of living and the overall economic environment. Understanding these differences prepares you for your new life in Bakersfield, contrasting it with what you've become accustomed to in Seattle.

ComparisonSeattleBakersfield
Avg. Household Income$110,781$66,666
Cost of Living Index121.4103.4
State Income Tax00
Avg. Property Tax0.990.81
Avg. Sales Tax10.18.25
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Retail, HealthcareOil and Gas, Agriculture, Manufacturing
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

Seattle and Bakersfield present two vastly different financial pictures, particularly in terms of income levels, cost of living, and industrial bases. Although both cities have no state income tax, the significantly higher average household income and cost of living in Seattle contrast with Bakersfield's more affordable living expenses and moderate income levels. The industries driving each city's economy are also strikingly different, with Seattle being a hub for technology and Bakersfield relying more heavily on oil and gas, and agriculture. This drastic shift in economic environment and affordability can have a major impact on your financial well-being and lifestyle in your new home.

Seattle vs. Bakersfield Political & Religious Comparison

In this section, we'll provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot focusing on the comparison of the politics between Seattle & Bakersfield, alongside a glimpse into the religious landscape of each city. This overview aims to give you an understanding of what to expect from the community you're moving into.

SeattleBakersfield
Political Make-upLiberalConservative
Local PoliticsDemocraticRepublican
ReligionLess religiously affiliatedMore religiously affiliated

When transitioning from Seattle to Bakersfield, you'll notice a significant shift in the political and religious climate. Seattle leans heavily Democratic, which reflects its liberal stance on many national issues, and its residents are often less religiously affiliated, emphasizing a secular approach to community and policy. On the other hand, Bakersfield's community has a stronger conservative and Republican orientation, with a noticeable portion of the population holding religious affiliations. This difference can influence local policies, community initiatives, and even daily conversations. Understanding these distinctions will help you navigate your new surroundings more comfortably and engage with your new community effectively.

Seattle vs. Bakersfield Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Seattle, WA to Bakersfield, CA, it's vital to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison focuses on helping you better grasp the nuances between the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Bakersfield.

ComparisonSeattleBakersfield
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)27.322.4
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, but challengingNo, a car is necessary

When comparing the daily commuting experience between Seattle and Bakersfield, several key differences stand out. Seattle's slightly higher traffic congestion reflects its busier urban environment, which is somewhat mitigated by its more robust public transit system. In contrast, Bakersfield, with its lower traffic congestion, seems more navigable, but the sparser availability of public transit means you'll likely rely more on personal vehicles for daily travel. While living in Seattle might afford the luxury of opting out of car ownership, albeit with some difficulty, Bakersfield's infrastructure makes owning a car almost a necessity for getting around.

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