Is Bakersfield or Salt Lake City more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Salt Lake City is $1,450/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Salt Lake City, UT
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Salt Lake City.
3
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Salt Lake City wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
UT
Salt Lake City
Overview
403,455
Population
199,723
$55,026
Median Income
+5.4%$58,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+26.1%$1,450
$310,000✓
Median Home Price
+54.8%$480,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
30%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
4.65%✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
222 days
7"
Annual Rainfall
17"
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Bakersfield vs Salt Lake City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Salt Lake City?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Salt Lake City wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Salt Lake City?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Salt Lake City?
Bakersfield. Salt Lake City. 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.