Bakersfield, CA

Bakersfield is a mid-sized city located in the southern part of California’s Central Valley. The city has a diverse population and a mix of urban and rural areas.

Bakersfield is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Its economy, education system, and transportation options make it an important hub for the Central Valley region of California.

The Bakersfield city cost of living based on a US average of 100 is 103.4 slightly high than the national average. The median home value in Bakersfield was $365,618 as of March 2023. The city has a relatively high median household income of $56,842, which is less than the national median household income.

City highlights

Bakersfield is a city located in Kern County, California, in the United States. It has a population of approximately 400,000 people, making it the ninth-largest city in California.

Bakersfield is known for its country music scene, which produced notable musicians such as Buck Owens and Merle Haggard. The city is also home to the Bakersfield Condors, a minor league ice hockey team.

Geographic location

Bakersfield is located in the southern San Joaquin Valley, about 110 miles north of Los Angeles. The city is situated on the Kern River and is surrounded by mountains to the east and west.

It has an elevation of 400 feet above sea level and covers an area of approximately 151 square miles.

Climate

Bakersfield has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city is known for its hot and dry weather, with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F in the summer months.

The hottest month of the year is July, with an average high temperature of 96°F and an average low temperature of 67°F. Winters are mild with cool temperatures and occasional rain. The coldest month of the year is December, with an average high temperature of 57°F and an average low temperature of 38°F.

Demography

As of the 2020 Census, the population of Bakersfield is estimated to be around 400,000 people. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2020, the racial and ethnic makeup of the city is as follows: White at 52.5%, Hispanic or Latino at 49.3%, Black or African American at 7.4%, and Asian at 5.9%.

The average age of the population is 30.5 years old which is slightly younger than the median age for California at 37.9 years old.

Cost of Living

According to data, the cost-of-living index in Bakersfield is 103.4, which is slightly high than the national average of 100. In the same way, The median home value in Bakersfield is around $365,618 as of March 2023. The rent of an apartment studio can cost around $1,050 monthly, only 30 points below the official national figure.

Transportation

Bakersfield has a variety of transportation options for residents and visitors, including Roadways, public transportation, rail, airports, taxis, ride-sharing, biking, and walking.

Bakersfield has an overall walk score of 34 out of 100, which is considered car-dependent. This means that most errands require a car in Bakersfield.

Schools

Bakersfield is home to several highly rated schools including 116 public, and 97 private, with a total amount of 213 schools. Whether public, private, or charter, these schools offer a strong academic curriculum and a variety of enrichment programs to help students succeed.

There are also several colleges and universities in Bakersfield, including California State University, Bakersfield, which has over 10,000 students, and Bakersfield College, which has over 20,000 students. Other colleges and universities in the city include the University of La Verne, San Joaquin Valley College, and Santa Barbara Business College.

What is the city like?

Bakersfield offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with a range of neighborhoods and housing options. The city has a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and lakes. It is also a popular destination for road trippers, as it is located near several major highways.

Bakersfield’s economy is diverse, with major industries including agriculture, healthcare, education, and energy. The city is also home to several universities and colleges.