Is Austin or Bakersfield more affordable?
Austin has a median rent of $1,415/month, while Bakersfield is $1,150/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Austin, TX vs Bakersfield, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Austin and Bakersfield.
2
Austin wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Bakersfield wins
TX
Austin
vs
CA
Bakersfield
Overview
944,658
Population
403,455
$78,965✓
Median Income
-30.3%$55,026
Cost of Living
$1,415
Median Rent / mo
-18.7%$1,150✓
$381,400
Median Home Price
-18.7%$310,000✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
25%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
71.28°F
Avg High Temp
81°F
68.16°F
Avg Low Temp
52°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
276 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
7"
Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Austin vs Bakersfield — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Austin or Bakersfield?
Texas has no state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Austin wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Austin and Bakersfield?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F
Which city is better for families — Austin or Bakersfield?
Austin. Bakersfield. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.