Is Bakersfield or Phoenix more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Phoenix.
2
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Phoenix wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
403,455
Population
1,608,139
$55,026
Median Income
+12.7%$62,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+43.5%$1,650
$310,000✓
Median Home Price
+35.5%$420,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
63°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
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Bakersfield vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Phoenix?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Phoenix?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Phoenix?
Bakersfield. Phoenix. 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.