Bakersfield, CA
Population 408,366 · California
About Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a major city located in California with a population of 408,366 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $77,397 per year, which is 3% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.9 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Bakersfield features a median home value of $347,300, which is 42% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Bakersfield in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,371, 18% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 133,876 total housing units, 60% are owner-occupied (76,767 units) and 40% are renter-occupied (50,859 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bakersfield shows an unemployment rate of 7.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Bakersfield have an average one-way commute time of 24.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
23.3% of Bakersfield residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 47.3% White, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, and 5.6% Asian residents, with 19.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Bakersfield Ranks in California
Cost of Living in Bakersfield, CA
Compared to national averages, Bakersfield has a median household income of $77,397 (3% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $347,300, which is 42% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,371 is 18% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Bakersfield's income is 21% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 47% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Bakersfield, CA?
Bakersfield offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $77,397, well above the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24.1 minutes.
Bakersfield has a population of 408,366 with a median age of 31.9 years. Compare Bakersfield with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Bakersfield
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oakland | 438,072 | $97,369 | $924,700 | Compare |
| Long Beach | 458,491 | $83,969 | $762,200 | Compare |
| Anaheim | 344,553 | $90,583 | $771,700 | Compare |
| Stockton | 320,470 | $76,851 | $412,900 | Compare |
| Riverside | 316,241 | $88,575 | $542,100 | Compare |
| Santa Ana | 311,639 | $88,354 | $657,800 | Compare |
| Irvine | 308,160 | $129,647 | $1,115,400 | Compare |
| Sacramento | 524,802 | $83,753 | $484,600 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in California
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Bakersfield With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Bakersfield
What is the population of Bakersfield, CA?
The population of Bakersfield, CA is 408,366 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in California.
What is the median household income in Bakersfield?
The median household income in Bakersfield, CA is $77,397 per year, which is 3% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bakersfield?
The median home value in Bakersfield, CA is $347,300, which is 42% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Bakersfield?
The median monthly rent in Bakersfield, CA is $1,371, which is 18% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bakersfield?
The unemployment rate in Bakersfield, CA is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Bakersfield, CA a good place to live?
Bakersfield offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 408,366 and a median age of 31.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Bakersfield, CA?
23.3% of residents in Bakersfield aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Bakersfield?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bakersfield, CA: median home value is $347,300 (42% above national), median rent is $1,371/month, and median household income is $77,397. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.5x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Bakersfield?
The poverty rate in Bakersfield, CA is 16.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Bakersfield, CA?
Bakersfield's population is 47.3% White, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, 5.6% Asian, and 5.8% two or more races. 19.9% of residents are foreign-born.