If you’re considering moving to Bakersfield, CA, you’re probably weighing your options about the lifestyle, cost of living, and what it’s like to call this city home. Bakersfield is a city that’s often overlooked but has a lot to offer to those who seek a balance between suburban life and access to urban amenities.
Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, it’s important to know what Bakersfield has in store. Here’s a detailed guide to help you settle in and make the most of your move.
Where is Bakersfield?
Bakersfield is located in southern California, at the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley, in Kern County. It is about 100 miles north of Los Angeles, making it a central point between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the coast.
Why Move to Bakersfield?
Moving to Bakersfield can be a great choice for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle compared to other cities in California. With lower housing costs, a growing job market in agriculture, healthcare, and energy, and access to outdoor activities like hiking and river rafting, Bakersfield offers a balanced life. Many families also appreciate the city’s community atmosphere and slower pace, making it ideal for those looking to escape the hustle of larger cities.
Living in Bakersfield
Living in Bakersfield comes with its pros and cons. The cost of living is lower than in many other California cities, and the housing market is more affordable. Residents enjoy access to fresh produce due to the agricultural setting, as well as outdoor recreation. However, the summers are hot, and air quality can be a concern due to nearby oil production and agricultural activities.
Pros and Cons of Living in Bakersfield, CA
Pros:
- Affordable housing and cost of living.
- Family-friendly with a growing job market.
- Proximity to outdoor recreation and fresh produce from local farms.
Cons:
- Hot summers and frequent poor air quality.
- Limited public transportation, making it a car-dependent city.
Affordable Cost of Living
Bakersfield, CA, offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other Californian cities. As of 2024, while Bakersfield’s overall living expenses are roughly 10% above the national average, they remain significantly lower than those of major cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco.
Housing costs remain one of Bakersfield’s key advantages, with home prices around $259,000, significantly below the California state average. Rental prices are also affordable, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment around $1,115 per month. However, utility costs can be high, with energy bills averaging $390 per month.
In terms of everyday expenses, Bakersfield’s grocery prices are generally aligned with the national average. For instance, a gallon of milk costs about $4.95, and a dozen eggs is approximately $4.48.
Transportation costs, particularly for gasoline, are slightly higher than the national average, with gas priced around $4.75 per gallon. The city’s median household income is around $69,000, which helps balance these costs for many residents.
Warm Weather – and Lots of It
Before moving to Bakersfield, you should prepare for the weather. Summers are hot, with temperatures often reaching triple digits. Bakersfield has an arid climate, and if you’re not a fan of the heat, summers might feel challenging.
However, the city enjoys mild winters, which many people find pleasant. The lack of rain means you’ll enjoy clear skies most of the year, but it also means drought conditions can persist.
For outdoor enthusiasts, this means plenty of opportunities to explore during the cooler months, but make sure your home has a reliable air conditioning system to beat the summer heat.
Strong Agricultural Industry
Bakersfield sits at the heart of California’s Central Valley, which is known for its agricultural output. The region produces a significant portion of the nation’s food, from almonds to citrus fruits. If you’re interested in working in the agricultural sector, moving to Bakersfield could provide ample job opportunities. Even if you’re not directly involved in the industry, living in a farming community can influence the culture and local economy in unique ways.
Farm-to-table dining is popular here, and local farmers’ markets thrive, giving residents access to fresh, locally grown produce year-round.
Job Market and Economy
Speaking of jobs, moving to Bakersfield offers a range of employment opportunities. Apart from agriculture, Bakersfield has a strong presence in the oil industry, healthcare, and education. The local economy has been resilient, and job growth continues to climb. The presence of large employers like Chevron, Grimmway Farms, and Bakersfield Memorial Hospital means there are diverse job prospects.
However, if you’re looking for jobs in tech or finance, you might need to commute to nearby cities or find remote work options, as Bakersfield is more centered on industries like energy and healthcare.
Growing Arts and Culture Scene
One of the pleasant surprises when moving to Bakersfield is its emerging arts and culture scene. The city has been steadily investing in local art and music, giving it a sense of vibrancy. The Fox Theater is an iconic venue for concerts, plays, and events, and local art galleries showcase talent from the area.
You’ll find community festivals, farmers’ markets, and local music festivals that bring together residents. While Bakersfield might not rival LA or San Francisco in terms of cultural offerings, it’s slowly building its own creative identity.
Educational Opportunities
Families moving to Bakersfield will be pleased to know that the city has a range of educational institutions, from public schools to higher education. Bakersfield College and California State University, Bakersfield, offer solid educational programs, making it convenient for students to study without leaving the area.
Public schools in Bakersfield offer various academic programs, but like many school districts, the quality can vary depending on the neighborhood. It’s always a good idea to research specific schools if you have children to ensure you’re choosing the best environment for their education.
Outdoor Recreation
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, moving to Bakersfield offers plenty of opportunities to get outside. The Kern River runs through the city and is a hotspot for rafting and fishing. Hiking and camping are popular activities, with the Sequoia National Forest and other outdoor destinations just a short drive away.
For those who prefer more leisurely outdoor activities, there are numerous parks, golf courses, and biking trails. Hart Memorial Park is a local favorite, offering scenic spots for picnics and walks along the river.
Family-Friendly Community
Bakersfield is often considered a family-friendly city, with various amenities catering to families of all sizes. The low cost of living and affordable housing make it easier for families to settle down, and there are plenty of parks, museums, and activities geared toward children.
The city also hosts family-oriented events throughout the year, including the Kern County Fair, which attracts visitors from across the region. With a slower pace of life compared to larger cities, Bakersfield offers a community atmosphere where families can grow and thrive.
Proximity to Major Cities
Bakersfield boasts its own unique charm and benefits from its strategic location near several major California cities. A two-hour drive gets you to Los Angeles, while heading north takes you to Fresno. This proximity makes Bakersfield ideal for those who appreciate the advantages of a smaller city while still having convenient access to larger urban areas for entertainment, shopping, or work.
If you enjoy weekend getaways, you can explore the beaches of Santa Barbara or head east to the mountains of the Sierra Nevada.
Traffic and Transportation
One thing you’ll notice after moving to Bakersfield is that traffic is generally manageable compared to the congestion in major cities like LA or San Francisco. While Bakersfield isn’t immune to rush hour delays, commuting is relatively stress-free for most residents.
Public transportation options are available but are limited. The Golden Empire Transit District (GET) operates buses, but if you plan on living here, having a car is highly recommended. Fortunately, parking is easy to find, and most areas are accessible by road.
Conclusion
Moving to Bakersfield is a smart choice for those looking for a more affordable, family-friendly environment with access to outdoor activities. The city’s slower pace of life doesn’t mean sacrificing essential amenities, making it an attractive option.
With a growing job market and educational opportunities, many people love moving to Bakersfield for its balance between lifestyle and affordability.
As you plan your move, be sure to explore the different neighborhoods, research local schools, and get familiar with the community. With the right preparation and the assistance of Bakersfield movers, your transition to this vibrant city can be smooth and stress-free.