Bakersfield, California is a highly populated city with a population of 367,555 inhabitants. The majority of Bakersfield residents report their race to be White; this is followed by Black and Asian. Additionally, more than a quarter of the population of Bakersfield are of Hispanic or Latino origin, and 34% of the population also speak Spanish. Bakersfield tends to attract a younger crowd, as the median age of 30 is far below the national average.
Without the right tools, relocating to any new city can be very stressful and challenging. Living in Bakersfield, California could be a fulfilling experience for anyone who puts in the time to do the research required. When searching for a new neighborhood, several key items should be considered. Safety is paramount, ensuring a secure environment for you and your family. Proximity to workplaces or schools reduces commuting time and enhances convenience. Access to amenities like parks, grocery stores and healthcare facilities contributes to a comfortable lifestyle. Reliable public transportation options promote easy mobility. A strong sense of community fosters social connections and a welcoming atmosphere. The best areas in Bakersfield and in surrounding cities are easier to find when you are able to make informed decisions. Using data from health & safety, education, housing, you will see a detailed breakdown of the most important information as well as comparisons to the California and national averages.
Using data and statistics Bakersfield has received a livability score of 59/100. This score is ranked in the 36th percentile when compared to all other cities. Compared to the United States average, this area has a score which ranks among the lowest in the nation, and it is not considered a very livable city. Based on the grades for each individual category, Bakersfield has been rewarded with high marks for employment (B-) and housing (A+). Regrettably for Bakersfield, there are some categories for which it does not rank well, this includes: amenities (F), crime (F), cost of living (F) and education (D-).
For buyers, real estate will be the largest purchase they ever make and it will also be their most valuable asset. For renters, the monthly rent paid on their Bakersfield apartments will most likely be their largest expense. Based on tangible metrics like home and rental affordability and appreciation rates, housing in this area has received a score that is well above the average of every other US city. A thriving real estate market can also generate strong local economic activity and job creation.
Assuming that Bakersfield meets all of your requirements like low crime rates, good schools and great local amenities, the next most important item to examine is the affordability of real estate in Bakersfield. Everything else becomes a lot less important if it turns out that home prices in Bakersfield are simply unattainable. Median real estate prices in Bakersfield come in at $214,600, which is 47.6% lower than the California average. The home price to income ratio compares the median home prices to the median household income. In Bakersfield, the home price to income ratio is 3.7, which is 42.2% lower than the California average.
| Statistic | Bakersfield | California | National |
| Average one way commute | 23min | 28min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 80.9% | 73.5% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 11.8% | 10.6% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 1.0% | 5.2% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.6% | 1.1% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 1.0% | 2.7% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 3.0% | 5.4% | 4.6% |
| Walk | Bike | Compact | Car | S.U.V. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distance | |||||
| Duration | |||||
| Cost/Month |
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