365 movers in Bakersfield
What to know when moving to Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community with 61.3% renters and a median household income of $40,725.
- The Major Draw:
- Affordable median gross rent is $1,129, significantly lower than many California cities.
- The Reality Check:
- A high poverty rate of 38.8% may be a concern for potential residents.
- Commute:
- Only 1% of the population uses public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,129 in monthly rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Bakersfield is a city where 61.3% of residents are renters, reflecting an accessible housing market. The median household income of $40,725 is below the national average, and a significant 38.8% of the population lives in poverty, indicating economic challenges. With only 1% commuting via public transit, this area is car-dependent. The weather is generally dry, with an annual precipitation of about 12.7 inches.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for an area with robust public transit options or a higher average income.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,129, making it relatively affordable compared to many urban areas.
- The median owner-occupied home value stands at $264,300, which suggests a lower entry point for homebuyers.
- Only 19.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, reflecting a more diverse educational background.
- The poverty rate is at 38.8%, highlighting economic challenges within the community.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
California has its own unique crime landscape, and Bakersfield reflects some concerning trends. The state annual violent crime rate is 415.5 per 100,000, which is 27.7% higher than the national average. However, property crime has decreased by 26.1% from 2022 to 2025, with a current rate of 1,764 per 100,000, which is 14% above the national average.
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100k in California vs. 325.3 per 100k nationally
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100k in California vs. 1,546.9 per 100k nationally
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 44.9% since 2022
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
Bakersfield has access to several educational institutions, offering opportunities for higher education.
- Postsecondary institutions: 11
- With College Scorecard data: 10
- Notable schools include: Bakersfield College, California State University-Bakersfield, and California Aeronautical University.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Bakersfield experiences low annual precipitation of about 12.7 inches with only 31 rainy days each year. The dry climate makes it ideal for outdoor activities, especially in the fall and winter.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- The Park at River Walk (4.7, 4,364 reviews)
- Hart Memorial Park (4.6, 4,295 reviews)
- California Living Museum (CALM) (4.7, 2,526 reviews)
- Flight Adventure Park Bakersfield (4.7, 2,848 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
The job market in Kern County, which includes Bakersfield, shows an unemployment rate of 8.3% as of December 2025, with a labor force of 416,252 individuals.
- Unemployment rate: 8.3% (December 2025)
- Employed: 381,611
- Labor force: 416,252
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
