Is Bakersfield or Houston more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Houston.
3
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Houston wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
403,455
Population
2,304,580
$55,026✓
Median Income
-4.9%$52,338
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+8.7%$1,250
$310,000
Median Home Price
-14.5%$265,000✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
None✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
7"
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Bakersfield vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Houston?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Houston?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Houston?
Bakersfield. Houston. 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.