Is Bakersfield or San Diego more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and San Diego.
3
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Diego wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
403,455
Population
1,386,932
$55,026
Median Income
+44.8%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+82.6%$2,100
$310,000✓
Median Home Price
+151.6%$780,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
266 days
7"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Bakersfield vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or San Diego?
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 San Diego?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or San Diego?
Bakersfield. San Diego. 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.