bakersfield to fl

---
title: "Moving from Bakersfield to Florida: Costs, Movers & What to Expect"
description: "Real costs, top Bakersfield movers, and a cost-of-living breakdown for your Bakersfield to Florida move. Plan a 2,593-mile relocation with clear data."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Bakersfield to Florida", "Bakersfield to Florida movers", "cost to move Bakersfield to Florida", "Bakersfield moving companies", "California to Florida moving", "long distance movers Bakersfield", "Bakersfield FL relocation cost"]
---

If you're moving from Bakersfield to Florida, you've probably already done the math on income tax — [California's](/movers/california) top rate sits at 13.3% while Florida's is zero. That alone makes the move financially attractive for a lot of people. But there's more to pin down: which Bakersfield movers can actually handle a 2,593-mile interstate haul, what the move will realistically cost based on your home size, and what changes about daily life once you land.

Below I've pulled together the top-rated local movers for this route, real cost ranges by service type, and a side-by-side comparison of what you're actually trading when you leave Kern County for the Sunshine State.

## Local moving companies in Bakersfield

Out of the Bakersfield movers I track that handle state-to-state routes, these five rate highest for a move to Florida:

1. Meathead Movers — 4.64 / 5
2. Mentors Moving & Storage — 4.38 / 5
3. Express Moving & Storage — 4.38 / 5
4. Hansen's Moving and Storage — 4.36 / 5
5. Fit Movers LLC — 4.34 / 5

---

## Meathead Movers

**2334 Perseus Ct, Bakersfield, CA 93308**

- 4.6 / 5 overall
- [54 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/meathead-movers-bakersfield)
- [73 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Meathead+Movers+Bakersfield%2C+CA#lrd=0x80ea437b8ede73f9:0x77c04c1ddd058c51,1,,,,)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/san-luis-obispo/profile/moving-companies/meathead-movers-1236-3001080)
- **88% positive | 10% negative**

Across 274 reviews, Meathead earns consistent praise for professional, efficient crews who handle belongings carefully and communicate throughout the move. The complaints that do show up — estimates that shift between quote and invoice, and difficulty resolving damage claims — are worth asking about directly before you book. Not dealbreakers, but common enough to flag.

**Company info:** State license #0189849 | DOT #921143 | 27 years in business

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, storage | Accepts cash and credit card

---

## Mentors Moving & Storage

**3101 Gilmore Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93308**

- 4.3 / 5 overall
- [25 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/mentors-moving-and-storage-bakersfield)
- [261 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Mentors+Moving+%26+Storage+Bakersfield+CA#lrd=0x80ea69f32c081f3b:0xc395a61356ee0c85,1,,,,)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/bakersfield/profile/moving-companies/mentors-moving-1066-89004956)
- **91% positive | 8% negative**

91% positive across 239 reviews is a strong number for any mover. Customers describe efficient crews, careful packing, and solid communication. The negative reviews cluster around damaged or missing items and, in some cases, slow resolution from management — a handful even mention theft. These appear to be outliers, but on a long-distance move, it's worth discussing their claims process before you sign.

**Company info:** DOT #2911596 | 19 years in business | Also operates as Smooth Move USA and Excel Relocation Systems

**Services:** Local, interstate, international, packing, unpacking, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes | Accepts credit card

---

## Express Moving & Storage

**3818 Buck Owens Boulevard, Bakersfield, CA 93308**

- 4.3 / 5 overall
- [29 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/express-moving-and-storage-bakersfield)
- [92 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Express+Moving+%26+Storage+bakersfield#lrd=0x80ea4207205d6afd:0x3ef7f8ed8c74727d,1,,,)
- BBB: Not Rated
- **90% positive | 10% negative**

Nearly 90% positive across 114 reviews, with customers frequently calling out competitive pricing and fast crews. A few reviews mention unexpected charges or canceled jobs. The absence of a BBB rating isn't disqualifying, but I'd verify their licensing through California's PUC before booking.

**Company info:** State license #0190666 | DOT #076235 | 15 years in business | Also operates as Express Moving, LLC

**Services:** Local, interstate, international, packing, unpacking, offices, storage

---

## Hansen's Moving and Storage

**3501 Sillect Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93308**

- 4.3 / 5 overall
- [74 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/hansens-moving-and-storage-bakersfield-2)
- [172 Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=hansen%27s+moving+and+storage+3501+Sillect+Avenue+Bakersfield#lrd=0x80ea404b1bfecae9:0xa23208cbe9724c9,1,,,,)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/bakersfield/profile/moving-companies/hansens-moving-storage-inc-1066-80000359)
- **92% positive | 7% negative**

At 53 years in business, Hansen's has the longest track record in this group — and 306 reviews with 92% positive sentiment backs it up. Customers frequently mention on-time arrivals, accurate estimates, and crews that handle belongings with care. Negative feedback around surprise charges and damage claims does come up, but less frequently than with most competitors.

**Company info:** State license #0130609 | DOT #2728836 | 53 years in business

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, storage | Accepts credit card

---

## Fit Movers LLC

**2020 Eye St PMB 116, Bakersfield, CA 93301**

- 4.3 / 5 overall
- [121 Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/fit-movers-bakersfield-7)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/bakersfield/profile/moving-companies/fit-movers-llc-1066-850054811)
- **95% positive | 4% negative**

94.6% positive across 315 reviews is the best sentiment rate in this group. Customers consistently call out speed, punctuality, and pricing that beats expectations — many say their move finished faster than quoted. The minority of negative reviews mention damaged items, missing belongings, or extra charges not discussed upfront. If careful item protection is a priority, say so explicitly when you get your quote.

**Company info:** State license #0192218 | DOT #3455958 | 6 years in business

**Services:** Local, interstate, international, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, crating

---

## Local moving services in Bakersfield, CA

Here's a quick breakdown of specialty services available across these five Bakersfield movers:

- **Interstate moves:** 5 of 5 (100%)
- **Small moves:** 0 of 5 (0%)
- **Antiques:** 1 of 5 (20%)
- **Art:** 1 of 5 (20%)
- **Pianos:** 2 of 5 (40%)
- **Fragile-only packing:** 1 of 5 (20%)

If you have a piano, antiques, or high-value art, don't assume the mover you like handles them — confirm the capability and the process before you sign anything.

## Cost to move from Bakersfield, CA to Florida

The table below covers typical price ranges for a Bakersfield-to-Florida move (~2,593 miles), split by home size and service type. Use the [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to sharpen the estimate for your specific inventory.

| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,212 – $5,295 | $1,230 – $3,253 | $1,415 – $2,714 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $3,489 – $7,508 | $2,389 – $4,689 | $1,457 – $3,199 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,763 – $11,395 | $3,009 – $6,766 | $1,861 – $3,846 |

*Estimates are based on a 2,593-mile move from Bakersfield, CA to Florida using verified rate data compiled by MoveFinders as of January 2026, refreshed monthly for market movement. Final costs vary based on move scope, add-ons, access constraints, fuel, and timing. Compare multiple quotes before committing.*

### Cost to hire movers from Bakersfield to Florida

Full-service [long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) will generally run $1,212 to $5,295 for a studio or one-bedroom on this route. A two- or three-bedroom home pushes that to $3,489 to $7,508. Four bedrooms and up, expect $6,763 to $11,395. The wide ranges are real — a company offering white-glove packing and guaranteed delivery windows costs more than one that just loads and drives. You're paying for the difference.

### Cost of moving containers from Bakersfield to Florida

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) are the middle-ground option: you load on your own schedule, the carrier handles the drive. For a smaller load, figure $1,230 to $3,253. Two to three bedrooms: $2,389 to $4,689. Four-plus bedrooms: $3,009 to $6,766. Container pricing varies considerably between carriers on long hauls, so get at least two quotes before picking one.

### Cost of moving truck rentals from Bakersfield to Florida

The [cheapest moving option](/best/cheap-movers) is almost always a rental truck — but you're trading dollars for a 2,500-mile drive and all the labor yourself. Studio or one-bedroom: $1,415 to $2,714. Two to three bedrooms: $1,457 to $3,199. Four bedrooms and up: $1,861 to $3,846. Estimated fuel costs are included in these figures.

## Factors influencing moving costs from Bakersfield to FL

Your final number will shift based on a few key variables:

- **Move size:** More stuff means more truck space, more labor, and more cost. This is the biggest single driver.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak season. Rates climb and delivery timelines stretch — sometimes significantly.
- **DIY vs. professional mover:** The cost difference is real, but so is the physical effort of driving cross-country and handling all the loading yourself. On a route this long, that's worth weighing honestly.

## What you should know before moving from Bakersfield to FL

### Compare cost of living: Bakersfield vs. Florida

| | Bakersfield, CA | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,695 | $1,444 |
| Average home cost | $389,732 | $392,176 |
| Average income (per capita) | $73,827 | $67,917 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 102 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | 2.9% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 0.0% |

*Bakersfield sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, BLS, Tax Foundation. Florida sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.*

What the numbers actually mean for your move:

- **Rent** runs about 15% cheaper in Florida than Bakersfield. That's meaningful monthly savings.
- **Home prices** are nearly identical. No sticker shock in either direction.
- Florida residents earn about **8% less** per capita on average. If you're relocating for work, factor that into any offer negotiations.
- **Overall cost of living** is essentially a wash (index 102 vs. 100). Your lifestyle preferences should drive this decision more than your budget.
- **Unemployment** is roughly 51% lower in Florida than Kern County. The job market is genuinely stronger.
- **No state income tax** in Florida. Coming from California's 13.3% top rate, keeping that money is one of the most tangible financial wins of this move.

### How life is different in Bakersfield, CA from Florida

| | Bakersfield, CA | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 909,235 | 22,610,726 |
| Political leaning | Republican 51–46 | Republican 51–48 |
| Summer high | 97°F | 91°F |
| Winter low | 38°F | 49°F |
| Annual rain | 7″ | 55″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 0″ |
| Crime index | 58.49 | 21.39 |

*Sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces, Wikipedia, Walk Score, AirNow.*

A few things worth calling out specifically:

- **Temperature:** Florida summers run slightly cooler than Bakersfield's (91°F vs. 97°F), but Florida humidity changes how heat feels. Dry heat and humid heat are not the same experience.
- **Winters:** Florida wins clearly here. A 49°F low versus 38°F in Bakersfield means lower heating bills and more time you can actually spend outside in January.
- **Rainfall:** You're going from 7 inches annually to 55. Florida has a genuine rainy season — June through September — with afternoon thunderstorms that are a regular occurrence, not a weather event. Budget for it, mentally and otherwise.
- **Snow:** Nonexistent in both locations. No adjustment needed.
- **Crime:** Florida's index of 21.39 against Bakersfield's 58.49 is a significant gap. Most Florida cities score meaningfully better on safety measures.
- **Politics:** Both areas lean Republican, so the political environment won't feel like a major shift.

### Other considerations when moving to Florida

A few logistics that tend to catch people off guard on this route:

- **HOA rules:** Many Florida communities have specific moving-day policies — time windows, designated truck parking, elevator access. Check with your new HOA or building management before you schedule.
- **Elevator reservations:** Moving into a multi-floor building? Reserve the elevator. Failing to do this creates real problems on move day.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some Florida cities require permits for large vehicles parked on public streets. Confirm with your destination city or county in advance.
- **State licensing:** [Florida](/movers/florida) requires all for-profit movers to register annually with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Division of Consumer Services. Verify your mover's license before booking. You can check status directly on the state regulator's website.
- **Moving permits:** Florida doesn't require a general moving permit, but local parking rules vary by city. Confirm before the truck shows up.
- **Change of address:** Submit your USPS change of address at least a week before your move date. You select when forwarding starts, so your mail follows you on schedule.
- **Moving insurance:** Movers are required to offer Released Value Protection at no charge — but it only covers 60 cents per pound per item. On a 2,500-mile move with anything valuable, that's not enough. Ask about full-value protection or explore third-party insurance before you finalize your booking.
- **Moving checklist:** Use the [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to stay organized. Long-distance moves have a lot of interdependent details, and the checklist keeps the small stuff from slipping.

### Things to do in Florida

Wherever you land in Florida, the amenities are there.

#### Museums in Florida

- Wynwood Walls
- The Ringling
- Edison and Ford Winter Estates
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- The Dalí Museum

#### Parks in Florida

- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Everglades National Park
- De Soto National Memorial
- Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Ocala National Forest

#### Sports teams in Florida

- Miami Heat (NBA)
- Orlando Magic (NBA)
- Miami Marlins (MLB)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)

#### Universities in Florida

- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of South Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Florida International University

## FAQ

### How long does a move from Bakersfield to Florida take?

On a 2,593-mile haul, plan for seven to 21 days depending on service type and carrier schedule. Summer moves trend toward the longer end of that window. Before you book, ask your mover for a written delivery window — any reputable company will give you one.

### What's the availability of custom crating among movers in Bakersfield?

Two movers in Bakersfield that I track offer custom crating for items like art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. Confirm that the materials and dimensions fit your specific items before committing.

### What is the best way to get a car from Bakersfield to Florida?

Use [auto transport specialists](/best/car-shipping) rather than a general moving company for vehicle shipping. The [car shipping cost calculator](/calculator/car-shipping) will give you a quick ballpark for the Bakersfield-to-Florida leg.

### Why are people moving from Bakersfield to Florida?

The two most common reasons I hear: climate and taxes. Florida's no-income-tax policy is a significant financial draw for people leaving California, and the combination of mild winters and year-round outdoor activity pulls a lot of people from Central Valley heat.

### Where can I find long-distance moving companies in Bakersfield?

Start with the five companies listed above — all handle interstate routes. For a broader set of vetted options, browse [long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) on MoveFinders.

### Can I use cash to pay a mover in Bakersfield, CA?

One of the five movers listed here accepts cash. That said, cash payments on a long-distance move leave you with no paper trail if something goes wrong at delivery. The industry — and I — strongly favor traceable payment methods. Expect to pay a deposit upfront to lock your move date, with the balance due at pickup or delivery depending on the company.