Cost of Living in Bakersfield, CA
Overall index: 102 (100 = US national average). Data source: US Census ACS 2023 & BLS OEWS 2025, 2025.
Overall Cost of Living Index
Cost Breakdown by Category
| Category | Index | vs US avg | Sample cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | 100 | +0% | $960 |
| Transportation | 107 | +7% | $3.50 |
| Food | 104 | +4% | $426 |
| Utilities | 100 | +0% | $180 |
| Healthcare | 100 | +0% | $130 |
Index 100 = US national average. Higher = more expensive.
Cost breakdown (visual)
Salary Calculator: What do you need to earn in Bakersfield?
A single adult living comfortably in Bakersfield, CA needs approximately $35,700 / year after taxes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Bakersfield, CA?
The overall cost of living in Bakersfield, CA is 2% higher than the US national average (index: 102 where 100 = national average).
How much is rent in Bakersfield, CA?
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Bakersfield, CA is about $960/month.
Is Bakersfield, CA expensive to live in?
Costs in Bakersfield, CA are roughly in line with the national average.
What salary do I need to live in Bakersfield, CA?
A single adult needs roughly $35,700/year to cover basic living costs in Bakersfield, CA.