($1,406) Movers From Austin, TX to Bakersfield, CA

What to know before moving from Austin to Bakersfield

Moving from Austin to Bakersfield means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Austin than in Bakersfield, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Austin compares to Bakersfield so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Bakersfield are 4% lower than in Austin, which means you’ll have more money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Bakersfield.
  Home prices in Bakersfield are 23.4% lower than in Austin.
• Income in Bakersfield is 8.2% higher than in Austin, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Bakersfield include Bakersfield City School District, Clinica Sierra Vista, and Kern High School District.
• The cost of living for a single person in Bakersfield is 25.5% lower than in Austin. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Bakersfield is 11.2% lower than in Austin.
• The unemployment rate in Bakersfield is 68.57% higher than in Austin.
• Sales taxes are the same in Bakersfield and Austin.
• State income taxes in Bakersfield are 13.30% higher than in Austin.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,235.87 in Bakersfield to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Austin.

How life is different in Austin vs. Bakersfield

• Bakersfield's population is about 7% less than Austin.
• Bakersfield's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Austin's higher score of 5.
• Bakersfield is less walkable than Austin with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Austin's 42 out of 100.
• Bakersfield has a bike-friendliness score 44 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Austin, which has a score of 54 out of 100.
• Bakersfield's crime rate is higher than Austin with a score of 58.49 compared to Austin's 42.91. This means that Bakersfield neighborhoods are safer than 58.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Austin neighborhoods are safer than 42.91%.
• Bakersfield is considered to be less safe than Austin with a score of 41.51 vs Austin's 59.87.
• Air quality in Bakersfield is good, and in Austin it's good.

Other things to consider for your Austin vs. Bakersfield move

• Weather: Bakersfield has very hot, dry summers, and winters that consist of mild days with chilly/cold nights. Check your weather app before your move to avoid extreme heat.
• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
• State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in California, visit the state's public utilities commission
• Moving permits: While California doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Bakersfield without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Bakersfield

With your sights set on "California's Country Music Capital", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Bakersfield.

Helpful moving resources