Best Bakersfield to Knoxville Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Bakersfield to Knoxville and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,202 mile move from California to Tennessee go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 12 Bakersfield to Knoxville 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 Boundless Moving & Storage), 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 Knoxville. 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 Knoxville Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Boundless Moving & Storage | 9.34 | 9.36 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
2 | Buster’s Box’s Moving | 9.01 | 9.01 | Authorized For Property, 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 Knoxville?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,202 miles from Bakersfield, CA to Knoxville, TN will cost on average $3,654 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Bakersfield to Knoxville move is roughly $8,821. 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 | $3,654 | 450 ft³ | $8.12 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,052 | 750 ft³ | $8.07 |
3 Bedrooms | $8,821 | 1100 ft³ | $8.02 |
4 Bedrooms | $12,751 | 1600 ft³ | $7.97 |
5+ Bedrooms | $14,255 | 1800 ft³ | $7.92 |


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

Boundless Moving & Storage
5595 N. Lee Hwy
Cleveland, TN, 37312
About Boundless Moving & Storage
Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2798532 / 934519 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 358,520 (2022) |

Buster’s Box’s Moving
5927 John May Dr
Knoxville, TN, 37921
About Buster’s Box’s Moving
Buster’s Box’s Moving is a Knoxville, TN-based moving company that offers a variety of services including local moves, out of state...
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4125824 / 1578852 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (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. Knoxville Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Bakersfield, CA & Knoxville, TN to help you find a new community that feels like home. By identifying neighborhoods with similar vibes, amenities, and lifestyles, we aim to make your move as smooth as possible.
Bakersfield | Knoxville | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Seven Oaks | Sequoyah Hills | Upscale, riverfront living |
Olde Stockdale | Fountain City | Historic homes, community-centric |
Westchester | Old North Knoxville | Historic charm, vibrant community |
Haggin Oaks | Bearden | Family-friendly, mix of urban/suburban |
Rosedale | West Hills | Suburban feel, parks, and shopping |
Laurelglen | Cedar Bluff | Quiet, residential, with amenities |
The Oaks | Rocky Hill | Well-established, great schools |
Stockdale Estates | Westmoreland | Exclusive, spacious properties |
Grand Island | Farragut | Upscale, lakeside community |
Tevis Ranch | Northshore Town Center | Modern living, convenience |
For those moving from Bakersfield to Knoxville and seeking an area with a rich sense of community and history, Old North Knoxville mirrors the charm of Westchester, where historical homes line the streets, offering a glimpse into the past while maintaining a vibrant, close-knit community. Fans of outdoor activities coming from Rosedale will appreciate West Hills in Knoxville, known for its suburban feel complimented by numerous parks and shopping options. For those accustomed to the upscale, riverfront lifestyle of Seven Oaks, Sequoyah Hills in Knoxville offers a similar experience with its beautiful river views, winding boulevards, and thriving cultural scene, featuring local landmarks such as the Knoxville History Project for those interested in local lore. Moving doesn’t have to mean leaving behind the lifestyle you love; it’s about finding a new place to continue living it.

Things to Do in Knoxville
- Visit World's Fair Park
- Stroll through Knoxville Botanical Garden
- Enjoy a show at Tennessee Theatre
- Shop at Market Square
- Watch a game at Neyland Stadium
- Taste local brews at Smoky Mountain Brewery
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Bakersfield to Knoxville
Moving from one city to another opens a unique chapter in life. This comparison aims to outline the good and the bad aspects of relocating from Bakersfield, CA to Knoxville, TN, providing an honest reflection through contrasting charts that highlight the pros and cons of each city.
- Higher crime rates
- Air pollution
- Hot summers
- Limited cultural spots
- Lower crime rates
- Cleaner air
- Milder summers
- Rich cultural scene
- Higher cost of living
- Fewer job opportunities
- Further from major cities
- Smaller urban parks
- Lower cost of living
- More job opportunities
- Proximity to LA
- Expansive outdoor spaces
While Bakersfield might boast lower living costs and close proximity to Los Angeles, moving to Knoxville introduces you to an environment with lower crime rates, which can be a significant factor for many. The transition might come with its share of adjustments like a higher cost of living, but it also offers milder summers and a richer cultural scene. Imagine spending your weekends exploring the Knoxville Museum of Art or enjoying the outdoors at World's Fair Park. The change might mean saying goodbye to the expansive deserts and hello to the lush landscapes of East Tennessee, exchanging the vastness for the charm of Knoxville's neighborhoods and the vibrant energy of Market Square's restaurants and cafes.
Bakersfield vs. Knoxville Food Guide
When planning a move, it's essential to consider all aspects of your new home, including the culinary scene. Food plays a significant role in local culture and can greatly influence your living experience. Therefore, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Bakersfield & Knoxville so you can get a taste of what awaits in your new city.
- Wool Growers
- Luigi's
- 24th Street Cafe
- Stock & Barrel
- Sweet P's BBQ
- The Tomato Head
In Bakersfield, the aroma of smoked meats and tri-tip sandwiches fill the air, a legacy of its cowboy culture, while specialized tacos from local food trucks offer a taste of its rich Mexican heritage. Conversely, Knoxville will charm you with its Southern hospitality reflected in its love for biscuits and gravy and an impressive array of BBQ joints, like Sweet P’s BBQ, a local favorite. The city also shows its progressive side with a growing number of vegan options, such as mouthwatering BBQ jackfruit dishes at The Tomato Head. Whether strolling through Knoxville's Market Square or exploring Bakersfield's downtown, you're guaranteed to find culinary delights that speak to the character of each city.
Bakersfield vs. Knoxville Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in new surroundings often begins with discovering your next favorite place to eat. This restaurant comparison between Bakersfield, CA, and Knoxville, TN, will guide you to local eateries that resonate with your culinary preferences, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.
Bakersfield | Knoxville | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Wool Growers | Le Parigo | Offers a cozy ambiance and a European-inspired menu that echoes Wool Growers' comforting feel. |
24th Street Café | OliBea | Known for their hearty breakfasts and casual charm similar to 24th Street Café. |
Luigi's Restaurant & Delicatessen | Emilia | Italian cuisine with a focus on ingredients and tradition, akin to Luigi's. |
Hungry Hunter Steakhouse | The Chop House | Offers high-quality steaks and an upscale dining experience reminiscent of Hungry Hunter. |
Pyrenees Café | Not Watson's Kitchen + Bar | Both have a historic vibe and serve comforting, hearty meals. |
Lengthwise Brewing Company | Elkmont Exchange | Craft brewery and eatery with a unique take on flavors, similar to Lengthwise. |
Dewar's Candy Shop | The Phoenix Pharmacy and Fountain | For a nostalgic dessert experience comparable to Dewar's. |
Padre Hotel | The Oliver Hotel | While not a restaurant, its dining establishments like Oliver Royale, offer a boutique hotel dining experience akin to Padre Hotel. |
J's Place | Jackie's Dream | Offers a soul food menu that can compete with the comfort and flavors of J's Place. |
Camino Real Kitchen & Tequila | Soccer Taco | Provides a vibrant atmosphere and a comprehensive approach to Mexican cuisine, paralleling Camino Real. |
Among the gems highlighted, Le Parigo in Knoxville serves as a perfect counterpart to Bakersfield's Wool Growers, offering a blend of classic and innovative French dishes that warm the heart. Over in the casual dining sphere, OliBea stands out as Knoxville's answer to 24th Street Café, promising a breakfast experience that's both familiar and new, featuring locally sourced ingredients. And for those craving soul food that tastes like home, Jackie's Dream parallels the homely comforts found at J's Place, ensuring your culinary journey in Knoxville mirrors the rich, flavor-filled experiences of Bakersfield.

Ready to start your move?
Bakersfield vs. Knoxville Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a critical factor when considering a move. Understanding how Bakersfield, CA and Knoxville, TN compare in terms of housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle can greatly impact your decision. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences and assist you in making an informed choice.
While both Bakersfield and Knoxville offer their unique charms, the lower median home price and rent in Knoxville make it an attractive option for many. The city's higher scores in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle reflect its vibrant community and the ease of navigating around town. Knoxville's typical Colonial Revival architecture, combined with its historic neighborhoods and scenic views, gives it a distinct character that appeals to those looking for both beauty and history in their surroundings. Meanwhile, Bakersfield's ranch-style homes and spacious yards cater to those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle, emphasizing family life and proximity to schools.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Knoxville, TN
1. North Hills : You'll love the abundance of parks and green spaces perfect for walking your dog and exploring nature.
2. West Hills : This neighborhood boasts spacious sidewalks and a strong sense of community, making it ideal for pet owners who enjoy being social.
3. Fourth and Gill : With its charming historical homes and a variety of off-leash parks, you'll find ample opportunities to keep your pets active and happy.
Bakersfield vs. Knoxville Weather Considerations
When relocating from one city to another, it's crucial to be prepared for how the weather may change. This comparison aims to highlight the weather patterns that you'll encounter moving between Bakersfield, CA , and Knoxville, TN . Understanding these variations can significantly affect your day-to-day life and overall comfort in your new home.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both Bakersfield and Knoxville enjoy warm summers, Bakersfield tends to have hotter, drier conditions compared to Knoxville's more humid climate. Moving to Knoxville, you'll need to adjust to a significantly higher level of humidity and more rain throughout the year. In addition, Knoxville experiences all four seasons, including winter snowfall, which is nonexistent in Bakersfield. Also noteworthy is the difference in air quality; Knoxville generally offers cleaner air compared to Bakersfield's poor conditions. Adapting to these new weather elements, from dressing appropriately to managing seasonal allergies, will be an important part of acclimating to your new environment in Knoxville.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Bakersfield to Knoxville
Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your finances. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income in Bakersfield compare to Knoxville is crucial for making an informed decision.
When moving from Bakersfield to Knoxville, you might find that your cost of living will decrease significantly, primarily due to the lower Cost of Living Index and the absence of state income tax in Tennessee. Despite this, Knoxville's sales tax is higher. The difference in Avg Household Income is notable, but the decrease in living expenses could balance the financial picture. The industries driving the economy vary between these cities, highlighting potential opportunities or challenges in employment sectors. Understanding these differences is key to preparing for your move.
Bakersfield vs. Knoxville Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison between Bakersfield & Knoxville provides you with a quick glimpse at the political and religious landscape of both cities. It's designed to help you understand the community you're moving into or out of at a glance.
When you're moving from Bakersfield to Knoxville, you're transitioning from a city with a solid conservative political majority to one with a more mixed political scene. While both cities boast a Christian majority, Knoxville presents a broader spectrum of Christian denominations, reflecting its moderately conservative stance. Local politics in Bakersfield is led predominantly by Republicans, whereas Knoxville enjoys a more diverse leadership, offering a blend of perspectives. Such a shift suggests that while you'll still find common ground in religious beliefs, the political and social environment will offer nuanced differences.
Bakersfield vs. Knoxville Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Bakersfield, CA, to Knoxville, TN, invites an evaluation of daily life changes, including the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Bakersfield & Knoxville. This guide will help you better understand what to expect in your daily commute and ease the transition.
When it comes to commuting in Bakersfield and Knoxville, both cities offer relatively short average commute times, with Bakersfield at about 22 minutes and Knoxville slightly less at 21 minutes. However, Bakersfield shows a somewhat higher reliance on personal vehicles due to less effective public transit options compared to Knoxville, where getting by without a car might still be challenging but more feasible. Traffic congestion in both cities is relatively low, meaning less time spent in traffic jams and more time enjoying what each city has to offer. This comparison indicates a subtle yet meaningful difference in daily life, particularly in how you may plan your commutes and depend on transportation options available.



Additional Resources
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