Is Bakersfield or Sacramento more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Sacramento is $1,650/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Sacramento, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Sacramento.
3
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Sacramento wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
CA
Sacramento
Overview
403,455
Population
524,943
$55,026
Median Income
+10.3%$60,715✓
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+43.5%$1,650
$310,000✓
Median Home Price
+61.3%$500,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
33%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.75%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
73°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
269 days
7"
Annual Rainfall
18"
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Bakersfield vs Sacramento — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Sacramento?
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 Sacramento?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Sacramento?
Bakersfield. Sacramento. 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.