Best Bakersfield to Grand Rapids Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Bakersfield to Grand Rapids and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,203 mile move from California to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 13 Bakersfield to Grand Rapids 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 MASS Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Bakersfield compared to Grand Rapids. 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.

Best Bakersfield to Grand Rapids Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | MASS Movers | 9.04 | 9.15 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
2 | Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.99 | 9.19 | Authorized For HHG |
3 | Excel Relocation Systems | 8.19 | 8.5 | Authorized For HHG |
4 | Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc. | 8.12 | 8.45 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
5 | Meathead Movers | 7.22 | 5.82 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Bakersfield to Grand Rapids?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,203 miles from Bakersfield, CA to Grand Rapids, MI will cost on average $3,655 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Bakersfield to Grand Rapids move is roughly $8,824. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $2,451 | 300 ft³ | $8.17 |
1 Bedroom | $3,655 | 450 ft³ | $8.12 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,054 | 750 ft³ | $8.07 |
3 Bedrooms | $8,824 | 1100 ft³ | $8.02 |
4 Bedrooms | $12,754 | 1600 ft³ | $7.97 |
5+ Bedrooms | $14,259 | 1800 ft³ | $7.92 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to Bakersfield guide.
Compare the 5 Best Bakersfield to Grand Rapids Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

MASS Movers
Lansing, MI, 48910
About MASS Movers
MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...
Services
- Packing Service
- Large Item Moving
- Small to Medium Business Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3333210 / 1062576 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 32,500 (2024) |

Kingsley Moving Systems
610 Detroit St
Lansing, MI, 48912
About Kingsley Moving Systems
Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its...
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Interstate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1890987 / 682343 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
Registered Drivers | 9 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 140,000 (2023) |

Excel Relocation Systems
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2911596 / 981013 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Broker |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 22 |
Registered Drivers | 20 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 262,226 (2022) |

Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2728836 / 88698 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
Registered Drivers | 10 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 12,000 (2023) |

Meathead Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 921143 / 398077 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 53 |
Registered Drivers | 87 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,188,444 (2023) |

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.
Bakersfield vs. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can feel like landing on another planet, especially when you're not familiar with your new city's neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Bakersfield, CA & Grand Rapids, MI . This guide aims to help you find a new area in Grand Rapids that mirrors the essence of your Bakersfield neighborhood.
Bakersfield | Grand Rapids | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Seven Oaks | East Grand Rapids | Affluent, family-friendly vibes |
Tevis Ranch | Fulton Heights | Active community, local parks |
Olive Drive Area | Creston | Diverse, artsy atmosphere |
Stockdale Estates | Ottawa Hills | Historic homes, quiet environment |
The Oaks | Heritage Hill | Upscale, architecturally significant houses |
Laurel Glen | Eastown | Bohemian vibe, eclectic shopping options |
Rosedale | Midtown | Growing, vibrant community spirit |
Westchester | Heartside | Artsy, urban renewal area |
Haggin Oaks | East Hills | Green spaces, community focus |
Rio Bravo | Garfield Park | Residential, close to nature |
If you're moving from Seven Oaks, known for its luxurious and family-oriented environment, you'll find East Grand Rapids to be a seamless transition thanks to its affluent atmosphere and tight-knit community vibe. For those leaving behind the artsy streets of the Olive Drive Area in Bakersfield for Grand Rapids, Creston's diverse and creative energy will make you feel right at home. Anyone fond of Tevis Ranch's community spirit and the local parks will appreciate what Fulton Heights has to offer, with its active neighborhood association and plentiful green spaces like Hillcrest Garden. Finally, moving from the historical richness of Stockdale Estates, you'll be enchanted by Ottawa Hills in Grand Rapids, where historic charm meets quiet, leafy streets.

Things to Do in Grand Rapids
- Explore the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
- Visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Enjoy a show at DeVos Performance Hall
- Sample beer on the Beer City Ale Trail
- Stroll through Eastown neighborhood
- Attend a Grand Rapids Griffins hockey game
- Canoe on the Grand River
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Bakersfield to Grand Rapids
Moving from Bakersfield, CA, to Grand Rapids, MI, offers a unique mix of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on the good and bad attributes of this relocation, closely examining the differences between Bakersfield and Grand Rapids. Navigating through this transition involves understanding what you'll gain and what you'll possibly miss, aiding you in making a well-informed decision about your move.
- High heat in summer
- Air quality issues
- Less cultural diversity
- Cooler summers
- Cleaner air
- More cultural diversity
- Cold, snowy winters
- Far from major cities
- Higher living costs
- Milder winters
- Proximity to LA
- Lower living costs
While Bakersfield is known for its scorching summers, moving to Grand Rapids promises you more temperate weather, especially during the summer months. However, this does come with Michigan's cold and sometimes harsh winters. If you've enjoyed Bakersfield's proximity to Los Angeles, offering easy access to beaches and entertainment, it's worth noting Grand Rapids' distance from such major metropolitan perks. On the bright side, Grand Rapids boasts a wealth of cultural diversity, vibrant neighborhoods like Eastown, and an array of local restaurants and parks. Places like Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and Rosa Parks Circle provide beautiful, serene settings year-round, giving you and your family unique sights and experiences unlike anything in Bakersfield.
Bakersfield vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide
Food deeply intertwines with local culture and the everyday lifestyle of a place. In understanding what life is like in different cities, comparing the local cuisine between Bakersfield & Grand Rapids becomes essential. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of the food scene in both locations, so you're better informed about where you're moving to.
- Woolworth's Diner
- Buck Owens' Crystal Palace
- Luigi's Italian Restaurant
- Sanchez Bistro
- Founders Brewing Co.
- The Green Well
Comparing Bakersfield and Grand Rapids offers a fascinating glimpse into how each city embraces its culinary investments. Bakersfield shines with its unique blend of Basque cuisine and a strong affection for tri-tip steak and tacos, staples found in numerous establishments across the city, such as Luigi's Italian Restaurant. Grand Rapids, on the other hand, leans towards a more diverse palette, with items like wet burritos and Polish sausage characterizing its love for hearty, comforting meals. The city's dedication to a foodie culture is underscored by establishments like Founders Brewing Co. and The Green Well, offering a vibrant food scene that's both vegan-friendly and health-conscious. Whether you're cruising through the food trucks in Bakersfield or diving into Grand Rapids' vegan chili, each city offers a deliciously unique experience that speaks volumes about its local culture.
Bakersfield vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison
Food plays an integral role in making a new city feel like home. This Bakersfield to Grand Rapids restaurant comparison will guide you in finding your next favorite dining spots, using your current favorites in Bakersfield as a baseline. Whether you're in the mood for a high-end dining experience or a casual bite, this chart helps bridge the culinary gap between these two vibrant cities.
Bakersfield | Grand Rapids | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Luigi's Restaurant & Delicatessen | Marie Catrib's | Casual eatery with a homey vibe and diverse menu. |
24th Street Cafe | Anna's House | Popular for brunch with a creative and health-focused menu. |
Wool Growers | San Chez Bistro | Offers a European dining experience, focusing on shared plates. |
Pyrenees Cafe | The Cottage Bar | Cozy spot known for burgers and a welcoming, casual atmosphere. |
Uricchio's Trattoria | Amore Trattoria Italiana | Authentic Italian dining emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. |
Lengthwise Brewing Company | Founders Brewing Co. | Not just a brewery but a spot with great food and ambiance. |
Hodel's Country Dining | Real Food Cafe | Homestyle cooking, offering a comforting breakfast and lunch menu. |
Camino Real Kitchen & Tequila | Donkey Taqueria | Unique and authentic Mexican food with a great selection of tequilas. |
Temblor Brewing Company | Brewery Vivant | Excellent brews with a side of gastropub fare in a unique setting. |
Valentien Restaurant and Wine Bar | Reserve Wine & Food | Offers an extensive wine list and upscale dining experience. |
For those who have appreciated the distinctive Californian flavors and diverse cuisines in Bakersfield, transitioning to Grand Rapids doesn't mean sacrificing culinary quality or variety. For example, if Uricchio's Trattoria has been your go-to for Italian in Bakersfield, you'll find Amore Trattoria Italiana in Grand Rapids a worthy counterpart, where the focus on authentic Italian dishes made with love and fresh, local ingredients echoes the passion of Uricchio's. For craft beer enthusiasts, the transition from Lengthwise Brewing Company to Founders Brewing Co. promises an impressive array of beers paired with hearty, satisfying food in a lively atmosphere, ensuring the spirit of your favorite Bakersfield haunts lives on in Grand Rapids.

Ready to start your move?
Bakersfield vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your relocation decision. Understanding how Bakersfield and Grand Rapids compare in terms of housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and livability is crucial for making an informed choice.
While Bakersfield tends to have higher median home prices and rent, it offers spacious properties, often featuring large backyards and pools, echoing its preference for Ranch-style architecture. Grand Rapids, however, draws in potential homeowners with its unique blend of mid-century modern homes and historic charm, not to mention a higher walkability and bikeability score. This city's real estate listings frequently highlight proximity to local breweries and downtown amenities, underlining a more vibrant urban lifestyle. Those moving from Bakersfield to Grand Rapids will notice a shift towards a more pedestrian-friendly environment and an emphasis on historic and architectural character.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, MI
1. Eastown: You'll love strolling with your pet through tree-lined streets and discovering pet-friendly cafes and parks.
2. Heritage Hill: With its spacious sidewalks and several nearby parks, this historic neighborhood is ideal for pet owners to explore with their furry friends.
3. Downtown Grand Rapids: Enjoy the vibrant urban environment with plenty of green spaces, including the popular Riverside Park, perfect for a pet outing.
Bakersfield vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to consider how the weather might change. This comparison between Bakersfield and Grand Rapids highlights the key differences in climate you'll encounter, helping you prepare for your relocation.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While Bakersfield boasts more days of sunshine and milder winters, Grand Rapids experiences significant snowfall and cooler temperatures during winter months. Due to the inland location of Grand Rapids, it also faces higher humidity, less sunshine, and a drastic change in seasons compared to Bakersfield’s semi-arid climate. Air quality and natural disaster risks shift from earthquakes in Bakersfield to snowstorms in Grand Rapids, indicating a need for different preparations and considerations in your new home. Understanding these differences can help you acclimate to your new environment more comfortably.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Bakersfield to Grand Rapids
Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your finances. This comparison between Bakersfield, CA and Grand Rapids, MI is designed to give you a clearer understanding of how your economic situation might change. It includes crucial financial factors such as income, taxes, and living costs to better prepare you for your move.
When moving from Bakersfield to Grand Rapids, you’ll find some financial benefits such as a lower cost of living and a favorable state income tax rate in Michigan. Grand Rapids has a lower average household income compared to Bakersfield, but the cost savings in taxes and living expenses can mitigate this difference. Additionally, the top industries vary significantly between the two cities, which might influence your job prospects. The higher property tax rate in Grand Rapids is a factor to consider if you're planning to buy a home. It's crucial to evaluate these factors and consider how they align with your financial goals and lifestyle preferences.
Bakersfield vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison
When making the move from Bakersfield, CA to Grand Rapids, MI , it's useful to grasp a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This comparison provides insight into what you might expect in terms of community values, local governance, and spiritual affiliations in your new city.
In Bakersfield, the conservative political leanings are closely tied to the local economy, heavily reliant on the oil and agricultural industries. This shapes local politics where economic policies are often crafted with these sectors in mind. In contrast, Grand Rapids presents a more liberal stance, reflective of its diverse economic base that extends into healthcare, education, and manufacturing. This diversification not only influences the city's politics but also its cultural and religious fabric. Grand Rapids hosts a variety of religious communities, though the Reformed Christian tradition holds a significant presence, echoing the city's Dutch heritage. This contrasts with Bakersfield's more evangelical Christian orientation, underscoring a varied religious dialogue between your old and new home.
Bakersfield vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Considering a move from Bakersfield, CA to Grand Rapids, MI? It's important to understand how daily life, specifically your commute, may change. This guide is designed to help you compare the traffic and transportation options between Bakersfield & Grand Rapids, aiding in a smoother transition to your new home.
In both cities, the average commute time is fairly comparable; however, Grand Rapids enjoys slightly less traffic congestion, making your daily drive a bit smoother. When considering public transportation, Bakersfield offers a slightly higher availability, although residents in both cities might find owning a car more convenient for daily errands. Interestingly, getting by without a car in Grand Rapids is more feasible than in Bakersfield, thanks to its more compact urban structure and community efforts to enhance walkability and bikeability.



Additional Resources
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