Is Bakersfield or San Francisco more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and San Francisco.
4
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
403,455
Population
865,933
$55,026
Median Income
+129.3%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+85.2%$2,130
$310,000✓
Median Home Price
+285.3%$1,194,500
25%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
9.30%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
7"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
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 Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco guide →Bakersfield vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or San Francisco?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Bakersfield wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and San Francisco?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or San Francisco?
Bakersfield. San Francisco. 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.