1Why People Are Moving to Bakersfield
Bakersfield, California has become an attractive option for relocating families and professionals in 2026. With a population of 403,455, the city offers strong opportunities in Oil and Gas, Agriculture, Manufacturing. The higher cost of living is offset by excellent safety ratings and suburban character with room to grow.
Whether you're relocating for a job opportunity, seeking a change of scenery, or planning retirement, understanding Bakersfield's unique characteristics will help you make an informed decision and plan a successful move.
2What to Expect: Cost of Living in Bakersfield
Understanding Bakersfield's cost structure is essential for planning your move. The city's Cost of Living Index of 145 means you'll spend about 45% more than the national average.
**Housing Costs:** The median home price is $528,805, while renters pay approximately $2,053 for a 1-bedroom and $2,669 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The competitive housing market means you should secure housing before your move if possible.
**Income Considerations:** The median household income in Bakersfield is $96,224. Higher-than-average salaries help offset living costs.
3Moving Costs: Getting to Bakersfield
The cost of your move to Bakersfield depends on distance, timing, and inventory size.
**Inbound**: Moving TO Bakersfield averages $5,232 for a 2BR.
**Outbound**: Moving FROM Bakersfield averages $4,910.
The inbound/outbound gap can reflect stronger inbound demand on some corridors.
4Living in Bakersfield: Quality of Life
Beyond the numbers, Bakersfield offers a distinct lifestyle that attracts residents from across the country.
**Safety:** With a safety score of 77/100, Bakersfield is considered very safe with low crime rates.
**Walkability:** The city scores 57/100 for walkability. Some neighborhoods are walkable, but most residents own vehicles.
**Commute:** The average commute is 37 minutes. Consider proximity to your workplace when choosing a neighborhood - commute times can vary widely.
5Bakersfield's Job Market and Economy
**Key industries**: Oil and Gas, Agriculture, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Logistics and Transportation.
**Major employers**: Kern County, Bakersfield City School District, Dignity Health, California State University, Bakersfield.
6Practical Tips for Your Move to Bakersfield
A successful move requires planning. Here are Bakersfield-specific considerations:
**Parking:** Contact your building or Bakersfield city hall about moving truck permits. Many areas require advance reservations.
**DMV and Registration:** You'll have 30-60 days (varies by state) to update your driver's license and vehicle registration after establishing CA residency.
**Finding Your Neighborhood:** With diverse neighborhoods to choose from, consider renting short-term first to find the right fit before committing to a long-term lease or purchase. For general utility-setup and pre-move admin steps, see our [Complete Moving Guide](/guide).
7Life After the Move: Bakersfield Lifestyle
Daily life in Bakersfield often revolves around its unique blend of agricultural heritage and a growing urban core. The city is famous for its distinct Basque restaurant scene, with institutions like Wool Growers and Benji's offering hearty, family-style meals and sheepherder bread. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy easy access to the Kern River for rafting and fishing, Lake Ming for boating, and the Panorama Bluffs for scenic walks with views of the valley. Culturally, Bakersfield boasts the historic Fox Theater for live performances, the Bakersfield Museum of Art, and the Kern County Museum which showcases local history. The city also has a strong connection to country music, often dubbed 'Nashville West,' highlighted by Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, a venue and museum dedicated to the Bakersfield Sound.
8Next Steps for Your Bakersfield Move
For the full pre-move timeline (8 weeks out, 6 weeks out, 4 weeks out, moving day, first week, first month), see our [Complete Moving Guide](/guide). Below, get a personalized cost estimate for your Bakersfield move: