Is Bakersfield or Fresno more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Fresno is $1,100/month. Fresno is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Fresno, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Fresno.
3
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Fresno wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
CA
Fresno
Overview
403,455
Population
542,107
$55,026✓
Median Income
-13.5%$47,625
Cost of Living
$1,150
Median Rent / mo
-4.3%$1,100✓
$310,000✓
Median Home Price
+3.2%$320,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.35%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
78°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
272 days
7"
Annual Rainfall
11"
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →Bakersfield vs Fresno — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Fresno?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Fresno?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Fresno?
Bakersfield. Fresno. 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.