Is Bakersfield, CA an Affordable Place to Live?

An unequivocal NO. The main benefit to living there is the low cost of living. My personal experience living in Bakersfield between 1959 and 1967 has shown that the area offers significantly more affordability compared to many other cities in the United States.I lived there during a time when my parents bought a nice 3BR/2Ba house in one of the nicer areas of town - called College Heights. They paid 20,000 for it near Panorama Drive, and I’m sure it’s a lot higher now.

Exorbitant or Economical?

While the property prices have increased over the decades, the living expenses remain relatively low. For example, low rent is available even if property ownership is not an option. Bakersfield's Affordable Living Index, according to recent studies, ranks it as the most affordable city in the United States. A minimum wage earner can allegedly live off a 20-hour work week.

Commuting and Diversified Housing

Some people commute to Los Angeles or Orange County due to the disparity in housing costs. I currently reside in a 6-bedroom house with solar panels and a pool in a “so-so” neighborhood. According to Zillow, it is valued around 250,000. There are really nice houses available for about a quarter of the price of Southern California or Northern California homes of far worse quality.

Affordable Housing Options

The cheapest apartments in Bakersfield start around 500 per month. Better ones are closer to 1,000. If you’re planning to stay for a while, buying property is cautioned as a better long-term investment. Note that gas prices in Bakersfield are approximately double the national average but remain cheaper than some other places around the state.

Job Market and Economic Benefits

Bakersfield has a diverse and promising job market. There are plentiful and higher-paying labor jobs, making it unique. Recently, newly developing distribution centers have begun to sprout up due to the centrally located highways. This further boosts the local economy and employment opportunities.

Heating and Cooling in Bakersfield

The climate in Bakersfield is notably hot in the summers, leading to constant air conditioning usage from mid-May until sometimes as late as Halloween. However, heating is only needed occasionally. This year, I did not use my home heating at all despite the winter.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Bakersfield offers a variety of family-oriented activities, such as youth athletics, adult city league sports, pro racing, semi-pro sports (including college and university level), and top-notch high school sports. For adults, there are dinner theaters, multiple movie theaters, and a plethora of restaurant options. While the nightlife is more limited than in bigger cities, there are some fun nightclubs, bars, and breweries. Additionally, the world-famous Buck Owens Crystal Palace country nightclub and family restaurant are highlights.

Geographical Advantages

Bakersfield's central location in California makes it an ideal spot. You can reach almost anywhere within the state with just a single tank of gas. However, it’s essential to note that the air quality is generally poor, largely due to its position at the end of “The Big Valley.”

Conclusion

In summary, Bakersfield, CA, is an affordable place to live primarily due to its low cost of living, diverse job market, and family-friendly activities. While the climate and air quality are negatives, the overall value and benefits highly outweigh these drawbacks for many people.