Is Bakersfield or Seattle more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Seattle.
3
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
403,455
Population
726,054
$55,026
Median Income
+91.5%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+56.6%$1,801
$310,000✓
Median Home Price
+147.6%$767,500
25%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
None✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°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
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Bakersfield vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Seattle?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Seattle?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Seattle?
Bakersfield. Seattle. 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.