Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bakersfield, CA
Considering a move to Bakersfield, CA? With a population over 413,000, Bakersfield combines affordable living—median home prices at $362,000 and average rents near $1,380—with a warm, sunny climate boasting about 78% sunny days a year. Commute times are manageable at 24 minutes, and the city offers a mix of public and private schools, plus higher education at CSU Bakersfield. While crime rates are higher than the national average, Bakersfield's vibrant community, reasonable cost of living, and access to healthcare and outdoor amenities make it a practical choice for many newcomers.
Demographics - Bakersfield, CA
Demographics - Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is home to over 413,000 residents, featuring a youthful median age of 31.6 and a diverse community where more than a third speak a language other than English at home. The population density is moderate at 2,800 people per square mile, and the city displays a balanced gender ratio and a rich mix of ethnic backgrounds.
Population:
413,175
Density:
2,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
31.6
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
35.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
41.8%
Black:
7.6%
Asian:
7.3%
Others:
43.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bakersfield, CA?
Bakersfield offers a cost of living just above the national average, with median home values around $362,000 and typical rents at $1,380. Utilities and transportation are moderately priced, and California’s variable state taxes apply, making the city an accessible option for many families.
Median House Value:
$362,000
Gross Rent:
$1,380
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$150
Auto Insurance:
$1,600
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
104.5
Grocery:
101.2
Housing:
97.8
Utilities:
108.4
Transportation:
103.1
Health Care:
101.6
Miscellaneous:
99.7
Crime
Is Bakersfield, CA a safe place to live?
While Bakersfield experiences higher crime rates than the national average, with a 1 in 214 chance of being affected by violent crime, many residents find peace of mind in tight-knit neighborhoods and active community programs. Property crime is more common, so newcomers often consider enhanced home security and neighborhood watch participation.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
467
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,676
Crime Index:
3,143
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 214
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 37
Weather
What is the weather like in Bakersfield, CA year-round?
Bakersfield enjoys a warm, sunny climate with about 78% sunny days each year and mild winters averaging lows in the upper 30s. Summers can be hot, with highs near 97°F, while rainfall is limited, adding to the city’s appeal for those who prefer dry, bright weather.
Winter
Min:
39°F
Max:
59°F
Spring
Min:
49°F
Max:
77°F
Summer
Min:
69°F
Max:
97°F
Fall
Min:
53°F
Max:
81°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
6.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
78%
Neighbors
Neighborhoods in Bakersfield offer a median household income of $70,200, though poverty rates are above average at 17.2%. Most adults have at least a high school education, and commute times are reasonable at under 24 minutes, contributing to a convenient and connected community feel.
Median Income:
$39,000
Household Income:
$70,200
Family Income:
$75,900
Per Capita Income:
$26,200
Income Male:
$40,700
Income Female:
$33,800
Poverty Rate:
17.2%
Non English Speakers:
35.2%
Rent:
$1,380
Unemployment Rate:
7.5%
Public Transport Usage:
1.7%
Commute Time:
23.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
78.5%
Bachelors or More:
17.4%
Education
How are the schools in Bakersfield, CA?
Bakersfield offers a spectrum of educational options, from public and private K-12 schools to higher education at California State University, Bakersfield and Bakersfield College. Local schools serve large student bodies, and the presence of major colleges provides plenty of opportunities for continued learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Stockdale High School
Street:
2800 Buena Vista Rd
Phone:
661-665-2800
Students:
2,400
Student Teacher Ratio:
25.1
Name:
Downtown Elementary School
Street:
2021 M St
Phone:
661-631-5940
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.6
Private Schools
Name:
Bakersfield Christian High School
Street:
12775 Stockdale Hwy
Phone:
661-410-7000
Students:
600
Colleges
Name:
California State University, Bakersfield
City:
Bakersfield
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
11,500
Name:
Bakersfield College
City:
Bakersfield
State:
CA
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
24,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to major healthcare facilities like Adventist Health Bakersfield and Kern Medical, ensuring comprehensive services and emergency care. With 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, Bakersfield supports a broad range of medical needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Adventist Health Bakersfield
Address:
2615 Chester Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone:
(661) 395-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Kern Medical
Address:
1700 Mount Vernon Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93306
Phone:
(661) 326-2000
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.1%
Health Care Index:
69.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bakersfield, CA?
The housing market in Bakersfield is competitive yet affordable, with a median home price of $362,000 and rent for a two-bedroom averaging $1,380. Homeownership is common, with nearly 60% of residents owning their homes, and the vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low.
Median Home Price:
$362,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,380
Owner Occupied Rate:
58.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Bakersfield’s DMV services are provided by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on F Street for all licensing and registration needs. Residents can access resources both in-person and online through the state DMV website.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3120 F Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone:
1-800-777-0133
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.