Cost of Living in Bakersfield, CA
Population 408,366 · California · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Most of Bakersfield's cost indicators track within a reasonable band of national figures, with median household incomes near $77,397 — a more representative starting point for relocation math than the headline-expensive or headline-cheap cities on either tail. At 7.0%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Bakersfield
The median home value in Bakersfield is $347,300 — 14% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,371/month, 4% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $77,397/year is 4% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 7.0%, above the national average of 4.8%. California's top state income tax rate is 13.3% and the combined sales tax is 8.7%. Overall, Bakersfield has a cost of living index of 110 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 10% more expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Bakersfield, CA?
Bakersfield has a cost index of 110 (100 = national average). It is 10% above the national average.
What is average rent in Bakersfield, CA?
The median gross rent in Bakersfield is $1,371 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Bakersfield?
The median home value in Bakersfield is $347,300 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Bakersfield?
The median household income in Bakersfield is $77,397 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Bakersfield, CA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Bakersfield is 8.7%. The California state income tax top rate is 13.3%.
Is Bakersfield, CA affordable?
Bakersfield is near the national average in terms of cost of living, with an index of 110 (100 = US average).
Bakersfield at a Glance
- Population
- 408,366
- Median Income
- $77,397
- Home Value
- $347,300
- Median Rent
- $1,371/mo
- Unemployment
- 7.0%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
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