Bakersfield, CA vs Fresno, CA: Cost of Living Comparison
Fresno has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Bakersfield | Fresno | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 102 | 100 | Fresno |
| Housing | 100 ($960) | 100 ($927) | Tie |
| Transportation | 107 ($3.50) | 110 ($3.50) | Bakersfield |
| Food & groceries | 104 ($426) | 89 ($365) | Fresno |
| Utilities | 100 ($180) | 100 ($180) | Tie |
| Healthcare | 100 ($130) | 100 ($130) | Tie |
| Median annual wage | 120 ($58,240) | 120 ($58,240) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bakersfield, CA or Fresno, CA cheaper to live in?
Fresno, CA is cheaper overall by about 2 index points (Bakersfield, CA: 102, Fresno, CA: 100; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Bakersfield, CA vs Fresno, CA?
A single adult needs roughly $35,700/year in Bakersfield, CA and $35,000/year in Fresno, CA to cover basic living costs.