Is Baton Rouge or Fresno more affordable?
Baton Rouge has a median rent of $1,050/month, while Fresno is $1,100/month. Baton Rouge is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Baton Rouge, LA vs Fresno, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Baton Rouge and Fresno.
4
Baton Rouge wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Fresno wins
LA
Baton Rouge
vs
CA
Fresno
Overview
227,549
Population
542,107
$49,000✓
Median Income
-2.8%$47,625
Cost of Living
$1,050✓
Median Rent / mo
+4.8%$1,100
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+45.5%$320,000
26%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
4.25%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
9.95%
Local Tax Rate
8.35%
Climate & Weather
79°F
Avg High Temp
78°F
58°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
219 days
Sunny Days / Year
272 days✓
60"
Annual Rainfall
11"
Who should choose
Baton Rouge, LA
Baton Rouge is a city in Louisiana with a population of 227,549.
Read full Baton Rouge guide →Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →Baton Rouge vs Fresno — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Baton Rouge or Fresno?
Louisiana has a 4.25% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Baton Rouge wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Baton Rouge and Fresno?
Baton Rouge gets 219 sunny days/year. Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Avg high in Baton Rouge: 79°F. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F
Which city is better for families — Baton Rouge or Fresno?
Baton Rouge. Fresno. 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.