Is Bakersfield or Richmond more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Richmond is $1,250/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Richmond, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Richmond.
3
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Richmond wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
VA
Richmond
Overview
403,455
Population
226,610
$55,026✓
Median Income
-5.5%$52,000
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+8.7%$1,250
$310,000
Median Home Price
-6.5%$290,000✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
5.75%✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
68°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
47°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
205 days
7"
Annual Rainfall
44"
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
Richmond, VA
Richmond is a city in Virginia with a population of 226,610.
Read full Richmond guide →Bakersfield vs Richmond — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Richmond?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Richmond wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Richmond?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Richmond gets 205 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Richmond: 68°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Richmond?
Bakersfield. Richmond. 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.