Is Bakersfield or Tucson more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Tucson is $1,000/month. Tucson is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Tucson, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Tucson.
1
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Tucson wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
AZ
Tucson
Overview
403,455
Population
546,574
$55,026✓
Median Income
-22.5%$42,672
Cost of Living
$1,150
Median Rent / mo
-13.0%$1,000✓
$310,000
Median Home Price
-19.4%$250,000✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.70%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
80°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
276 days
Sunny Days / Year
286 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
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →Bakersfield vs Tucson — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Tucson?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Tucson wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Tucson?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Tucson?
Bakersfield. Tucson. 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.