Is Bakersfield or Mesa more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Mesa is $1,500/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Mesa, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Mesa.
2
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Mesa wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
AZ
Mesa
Overview
403,455
Population
504,258
$55,026
Median Income
+3.4%$56,891✓
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+30.4%$1,500
$310,000✓
Median Home Price
+22.6%$380,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.30%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
87°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
62°F
276 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
7"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Bakersfield vs Mesa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Mesa?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Mesa?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Mesa?
Bakersfield. Mesa. 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.