Best Bakersfield to Phoenix Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Bakersfield to Phoenix and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 483 mile move from California to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Bakersfield to Phoenix moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Bakersfield compared to Phoenix. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Bakersfield to Phoenix Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.769.64Authorized For HHG
2New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.339.4Authorized For Property
3Excel Relocation Systems8.198.5Authorized For HHG
4Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.8.128.45Authorized For Property, HHG
5Meathead Movers7.225.82Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Bakersfield to Phoenix?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 483 miles from Bakersfield, CA to Phoenix, AZ will cost on average $2,192 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Bakersfield to Phoenix move is roughly $5,248. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,476300 ft³$4.92
1 Bedroom$2,192450 ft³$4.87
2 Bedrooms$3,616750 ft³$4.82
3 Bedrooms$5,2481100 ft³$4.77
4 Bedrooms$7,5541600 ft³$4.72
5+ Bedrooms$8,4081800 ft³$4.67
*Please note: These California to Arizona moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Arizona. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to AZ mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Phoenix to Bakersfield guide.

Compare the 5 Best Bakersfield to Phoenix Movers

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

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo

Sterling Interstate LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.76/10
based on 2,064+ data points

Phoenix, AZ, 85022

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo

New Beginnings Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 887+ data points

6757 W Charter Oak Rd

Peoria, AZ, 85381

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Excel Relocation Systems Logo

Excel Relocation Systems

Very Good8.19/10
based on 584+ data points

3101 Gilmore Ave

Bakersfield, CA, 93308

About Excel Relocation Systems

Excel Relocation Systems is a Bakersfield commercial moving company that partners with Smooth Move USA. Excel Relocation Systems specializes in business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance
  • Commercial Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

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
3
Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc. Logo

Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.

Very Good8.12/10
based on 1,185+ data points

3501 N Sillect Ave A

Bakersfield, CA, 93308

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...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

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
4
Meathead Movers Logo

Meathead Movers

7.22/10
based on 641+ data points

2905 Unicorn Rd suite a

Bakersfield, CA, 93308

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...

Services

  • Full Service Local Moving
  • On-Site Labor Moves Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

921143 / 398077

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans53
Registered Drivers87
Total Annual Miles Moved1,188,444 (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.

Bakersfield vs. Phoenix Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can feel like starting over on a different planet. To make this transition smoother, we've devised a comparison designed to help you find your place in an unfamiliar environment. This guide contrasts popular neighborhoods in Bakersfield, CA with Phoenix, AZ , offering a glimpse into which areas may feel like home in your new city. Let us guide you through this journey, making your move as seamless as possible.

BakersfieldPhoenixHow They're Similar
Oleander SunsetCoronadoHistoric charm, vibrant community
Seven OaksParadise ValleyLuxury living, scenic views
The OaksArcadiaFamily-friendly, great schools
Stockdale EstatesBiltmore AreaUpscale, access to amenities
LaurelglenNorterraSuburban feel, convenient shopping
PanamaDesert RidgeDiverse, with outdoor activities
WestchesterWilloHistoric homes, walkable neighborhoods
Haggin OaksNorth ScottsdaleSpacious, luxurious lifestyle
RosedaleAhwatukee FoothillsQuiet, family-oriented
TehachapiAnthemSmall-town feel, tight-knit community

For those intrigued by Bakersfield's Oleander Sunset, with its captivating historic ambiance and tight-knit sense of community, Phoenix's Coronado neighborhood will feel like a seamless transition. Coronado boasts an array of beautiful parks and unique local eateries, making it an ideal spot for those who cherish a vibrant community vibe. Meanwhile, Seven Oaks residents who are drawn to the luxurious, serene lifestyle, will find Paradise Valley in Phoenix a perfect match, where scenic mountain views meet upscale living. The Biltmore Area, akin to Stockdale Estates, offers not only upscale living but also proximity to Phoenix's top shopping and dining options, ensuring a blend of convenience and high-end comfort. Each Phoenix neighborhood echoes the charm of Bakersfield's communities, ensuring newcomers will discover a place that feels like home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Bakersfield to Phoenix

Moving homes is a significant life event that requires weighing the positives against the negatives. This comparison offers an honest reflection on relocating from Bakersfield, CA, to Phoenix, AZ. By evaluating the pros and cons to help you understand how life's day-to-day might change , these charts serve as a guide for anyone considering this move.

CONs
PROs
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Higher humidity
  • Less nightlife
  • Fewer job opportunities
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Larger urban area
  • Dryer climate
  • More entertainment options
  • Greater job market
Phoenix, AZ iconPhoenix, AZ
  • Busier lifestyle
  • Higher living expenses
  • Urban environment
  • More congestion
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Close-knit community
  • Lower cost of living
  • Proximity to nature
  • Less traffic

When considering the move from Bakersfield, CA, to Phoenix, AZ, it's important to factor in lifestyle preferences and priorities. Phoenix's vibrant urban scene offers an extensive array of entertainment options, from enjoying a night out in the bustling Downtown Tempe to exploring the diverse culinary scene with restaurants like Pizzeria Bianco. Meanwhile, the change in climate might be welcome for those who prefer a dryer atmosphere to the higher humidity of Bakersfield. However, if a close-knit community and less traffic are high on your list of priorities, the adjustment to Phoenix's busier lifestyle and more congested roads could pose a challenge. Considering these aspects alongside the job market and cost of living differences will help ensure a smoother transition.

Bakersfield vs. Phoenix Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Bakersfield & Phoenix illuminates the vibrant food scenes in both cities, which are essential to understanding their cultural landscapes. If you're moving, this guide will equip you with insights into what culinary delights await.

Bakersfield
Phoenix
Most iconic local food item
Basque cuisine
Sonoran hot dog
Most popular meat dish
Tri-tip
Carne asada
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Acai bowl
Vegan burrito
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Wool Growers
  • Noriega's
  • Luigi's
  • Pizzeria Bianco
  • Matt's Big Breakfast
  • Barrio Café
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Moving to Phoenix, you'll discover a robust food scene where Mexican cuisine shines. The Sonoran hot dog, a bacon-wrapped delight, reflects the city's close ties with Mexican culinary traditions. Phoenix's celebrated food trucks and vegan offerings connect eaters with innovative and health-conscious choices. Neighborhoods like Roosevelt Row and Downtown Phoenix are pulsing hubs for foodies, showcasing joints like Pizzeria Bianco and Barrio Café. These areas highlight the city's commitment to diverse and rich culinary experiences, which await you in your new home.

Bakersfield vs. Phoenix Restaurant Comparison

Understanding the essence of a city often starts with its culinary scene, making food a pivotal aspect of feeling at home in a new place. This restaurant comparison from Bakersfield, CA to Phoenix, AZ is designed to help you discover your next go-to eateries by drawing parallels to familiar flavors. Now, embarking on this gastro-journey can be as simple as referencing a beloved spot from back home.

BakersfieldPhoenixWhat You'll Love
24th Street CafeMatt's Big BreakfastKnown for hearty, American breakfasts.
Luigi's Restaurant and DelicatessenDeFalco's Italian Eatery, Grocery & DeliAuthentic Italian deli and dining experience.
Wool GrowersCornish Pasty CoOffers a European twist with hearty, meat-filled pastries.
Lengthwise Brewing CompanyWren House Brewing CompanyBoth craft breweries with a strong local following.
Uricchio’s TrattoriaCiboDelivers a comparable charming Italian dining ambiance and menu.
Pyrenees CafeJobot Coffee & BarBoth have a quirky, local vibe perfect for casual dining.
Hodel’s Country DiningButterfield's Pancake HouseHome to comfort breakfast and brunch options.
Basque Kitchen by AvelinaTimoOffers a menu that emphasizes wood-fired dishes and Mediterranean influences.
Moo CreameryChurnBoth spots are beloved for their unique, high-quality ice cream flavors.
Dewar’s Candy ShopMacAlpine's Diner & Soda FountainHistoric diner offering a similar nostalgic experience with sweets and diner classics.

For a breakfast that feels like it's from the heart of Bakersfield, Matt's Big Breakfast in Phoenix stands out with its all-American, hearty plates, evoking memories of mornings spent at 24th Street Cafe. If you're missing the Italian comfort food from Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen, DeFalco's Italian Eatery in Phoenix delivers an equally authentic and cozy Italian deli experience. For those who relish a unique dessert or sweet treat reminiscent of Dewar’s Candy Shop, MacAlpine's Diner & Soda Fountain offers a step back in time with its retro vibes and selection of classic diner fare and sweet delights. Whether you're a fan of craft beers or artisanal pizzas, finding a place that mirrors the character and flavor of your Bakersfield favorite in Phoenix is a gourmet journey worth taking.

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Bakersfield vs. Phoenix Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal component when considering a move. Understanding the distinctions between Bakersfield, CA, and Phoenix, AZ in terms of housing costs, styles, and lifestyle can greatly influence your decision. Here’s how these two cities compare.

Bakersfield
Phoenix
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch
Spanish Colonial
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Large lots, private pools
Outdoor living spaces, energy efficiency

In comparing Bakersfield and Phoenix, you'll find that both cities offer unique lifestyle choices and housing opportunities. Bakersfield's ranch-style homes often come with larger lots, appealing to those looking for more space or perhaps a private pool in their backyard. On the other hand, Phoenix embraces Spanish Colonial aesthetics along with modern energy-efficient designs, catering to those who enjoy an outdoor lifestyle and are conscious of their environmental footprint. Moreover, Phoenix scores higher in terms of walkability and bikeability, indicating a more urban lifestyle compared to Bakersfield. This could be a significant factor if you prefer to be in a vibrant, walkable community with easy access to amenities.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ

1. Arcadia: You’ll find expansive parks and walking trails perfect for your pets to explore in Arcadia.

2. Paradise Valley: Paradise Valley offers a serene and spacious environment with numerous pet-friendly amenities and green spaces.

3. Roosevelt Row: This vibrant arts district not only welcomes pets but also hosts various pet-friendly events and has easy access to outdoor areas.

Bakersfield vs. Phoenix Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Bakersfield, CA to Phoenix, AZ, it's crucial to compare their climates to adjust seamlessly. This guide highlights key differences to anticipate in weather patterns and conditions, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new home.

Bakersfield
Phoenix
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Heatwaves, Dust Storms
Air Quality
Moderate
Variable; often Moderate to Unhealthy
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

94°F / 66°F
106°F / 83°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

55°F / 38°F
67°F / 46°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

6.47
8.03
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


Moving from Bakersfield to Phoenix means preparing for hotter summers and milder winters, as Phoenix experiences higher average temperatures year-round. The significant increase in sunny days in Phoenix, coupled with lower humidity, contributes to a drier climate than Bakersfield's. Additionally, while both cities face natural disaster risks, they differ in type; from earthquakes and wildfires in Bakersfield to heatwaves and dust storms in Phoenix. Adjusting to these changes will help you embrace your new environment more comfortably.

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's vital to grasp how the cost of living and financial environment in Bakersfield compares to Phoenix. This knowledge can help you make an informed decision, ensuring that the transition meets your economic expectations and needs.

Bakersfield
Phoenix
Avg. Household Income
$66,666
$68,435
Cost of Living Index
103.4
100.7
State Income Tax
1 - 13.3
2.59 - 4.50
Avg. Property Tax
0.79
0.62
Avg. Sales Tax
8.25
8.6
Top 3 Industries
Oil & Gas, Agriculture, Manufacturing
Healthcare, Manufacturing, Technology
Affluence
Moderate
Moderate
Poverty
High
Higher
Homelessness
Significant
Significant

Moving from Bakersfield to Phoenix introduces slight changes in the financial landscape, notable in the areas of income, taxes, and the cost of living. Despite a higher average household income in Bakersfield, Phoenix presents a slightly more expensive cost of living index. You'll also find a considerable difference in state income tax rates, with Arizona offering a more favorable bracket. This transition might affect your budgeting plans, especially if your industry aligns closely with the top sectors of your new city. Both cities grapple with high levels of poverty and homelessness, signalling broader social issues that might influence your community engagement and lifestyle decisions.

Bakersfield vs. Phoenix Political & Religious Comparison

In this section, we aim to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand the differences and similarities in the political and religious makeup of the residents as you plan your move. This comparison between the politics in Bakersfield & Phoenix will give you insights into what to expect from your new community.

Bakersfield
Phoenix
Political Make-up
Conservatively inclined
Liberally inclined
Local Politics
Republican majority in local governance
Democratic majority in city council
Religion
High Christian church attendance
Mixed religious landscape with a strong Christian presence

While both Bakersfield and Phoenix have diverse communities, their political landscapes differ significantly. Bakersfield's conservative lean reflects in its local governance, having a Republican majority, which impacts local policies and community initiatives. Phoenix, on the other hand, exhibits a more liberal stance with a Democratic majority in its city council, influencing social and economic policies to possibly align more closely with your outlook if you lean towards progressive values. Notably, the religious scene also sees variations; Bakersfield has a pronounced Christian church attendance, implying a conservative religious backdrop. Phoenix offers a more mixed religious landscape but still maintains a robust Christian presence, catering to a wider range of spiritual and cultural expectations. This diversity in political and religious makeup between your current and future home highlights the shifts in community dynamics you might experience.

Bakersfield vs. Phoenix Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Bakersfield, CA to Phoenix, AZ involves adjusting to new daily commutes and traffic patterns. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Bakersfield & Phoenix will help you better understand what to expect on your travels in these cities.

Bakersfield
Phoenix
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
25
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
No

In Bakersfield, you might find the average commute time slightly shorter than in Phoenix, suggesting slightly better traffic conditions. However, traffic congestion in Phoenix is ranked higher, indicating you might encounter more delays during peak times. When it comes to public transit options, both cities could do better, but Bakersfield edges out Phoenix slightly in this category. In either city, relying solely on public transportation might be challenging, and having access to a car can significantly ease your daily commute. This synopsis should help you plan your move and adjust your expectations regarding transportation in your new city.

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