Is Bakersfield or Chicago more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Chicago.
2
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Chicago wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
403,455
Population
2,742,119
$55,026
Median Income
+19.5%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+5.1%$1,209
$310,000
Median Home Price
-10.5%$277,600✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
4.95%✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
7"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Bakersfield vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Chicago?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Chicago wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Chicago?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Chicago?
Bakersfield. Chicago. 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.