Living in Bakersfield, CA — The Complete 2025 Relocation Guide
Thinking about moving to Bakersfield? Discover why thousands of families and professionals are choosing Bakersfield for its affordability, community, and quality of life.
Talk to a Local Expert → Search Bakersfield HomesWHY BAKERSFIELD?
Why People Are Moving to Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is California’s ninth-largest city and one of the fastest-growing in the San Joaquin Valley. Located at the southern end of the Central Valley on U.S. Route 99, it offers a rare combination of California living with genuinely affordable housing, a strong job market, and a welcoming community.
Affordable Housing
The median home price in Bakersfield is significantly lower than Los Angeles, San Diego, and even Fresno — making homeownership achievable for first-time buyers, families, and investors seeking real cash flow.
Strong Local Economy
Bakersfield’s economy is anchored by agriculture, oil and natural gas production, healthcare, logistics, and a growing manufacturing sector. Major employers include Dignity Health, Kern Medical, Amazon, and numerous agricultural operations.
Year-Round Sunshine
Bakersfield enjoys over 270 sunny days per year. While summers are hot (a great reason to have a pool!), spring and fall are beautiful, and winters are mild — making outdoor living possible nearly year-round.
Strategic Location
Bakersfield sits approximately 1.5 hours north of Los Angeles on I-5 and Highway 99, 2.5 hours from San Francisco, and 1 hour from the Sierra Nevada mountains. Easy access to major California destinations.
Quality Education
Bakersfield is home to California State University Bakersfield (CSUB), Bakersfield College, several strong K-12 school districts, and a growing network of charter and private schools serving all learning needs.
Outdoor Recreation
From Kern River white-water rafting to hiking in the Sequoia National Forest, golfing at Riverlakes, or exploring the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History — Bakersfield offers an active outdoor lifestyle.
NEIGHBORHOODS
Bakersfield Neighborhoods — Where to Live
Bakersfield is a diverse city with distinct neighborhoods offering different lifestyles, price points, and amenities. Here’s what you need to know before choosing where to buy:
🏆 Northwest Bakersfield
Best for: Families, professionals, move-up buyers
Highlights: Seven Oaks, Riverlakes Ranch, Brighthouse — master-planned communities with HOA amenities, top-rated schools, newer construction, and lower crime rates.
Home prices: $380,000–$700,000+
🏡 Southwest Bakersfield
Best for: Established families, professionals
Highlights: Westchester, Oleander-Sunset, Stockdale area — mature neighborhoods with tree-lined streets, larger lots, and proximity to downtown and shopping.
Home prices: $300,000–$550,000
💰 East Bakersfield & Oildale
Best for: First-time buyers, investors
Highlights: Most affordable entry points in Bakersfield. Strong rental demand makes these areas excellent for investment properties with solid cap rates.
Home prices: $200,000–$320,000
🏙️ Downtown & Central Bakersfield
Best for: Urban lifestyle, proximity to employment
Highlights: Walking distance to restaurants, Mechanics Bank Arena, the Rabobank Theater, and government offices. Growing revitalization making this an emerging market.
Home prices: $220,000–$380,000
COST OF LIVING
Bakersfield Cost of Living vs. Other California Cities
🏠 Housing
Median home price in Bakersfield: ~$350,000. Compare to Los Angeles (~$850,000), San Diego (~$900,000), and San Jose (~$1.2M). Bakersfield offers real homeownership for real people.
🛒 Everyday Costs
Groceries, dining, and services in Bakersfield are meaningfully cheaper than coastal California cities. No state income tax advantage, but the housing savings more than compensate.
🚌 Transportation
Bakersfield is a car-dependent city. Most residents commute by car. Gas prices are competitive, and the flat terrain makes for easy driving. No major highway congestion compared to LA.
RELOCATING TO BAKERSFIELD
Moving to Bakersfield from Los Angeles?
Thousands of Los Angeles families and professionals relocate to Bakersfield every year, drawn by housing affordability, lower crime, and a slower-paced lifestyle — while staying within driving distance of LA for work or family visits.
What does your LA budget get you in Bakersfield? Often a 4-bedroom home with a pool on a generous lot — compared to a 2-bedroom condo in LA. The lifestyle upgrade is dramatic.
Skyler Realty specializes in relocation buyers — helping families from LA, the Bay Area, and out of state find the right Bakersfield neighborhood, school district, and home for their lifestyle and budget. We can conduct video tours, answer every question about local schools and services, and guide you through the entire purchase process remotely.
Talk to Our Relocation Specialists →Relocation Checklist — Moving to Bakersfield
- ✓ Get mortgage pre-approved before your home search
- ✓ Research school districts for your children’s needs
- ✓ Visit Bakersfield in person before buying (we’ll arrange tours)
- ✓ Choose your neighborhood based on your lifestyle priorities
- ✓ Consider a home inspection carefully (HVAC is critical in Bakersfield)
- ✓ Update your California driver’s license and vehicle registration
- ✓ Connect with local services: utilities, healthcare, and schools
Ready to Make Your Move to Bakersfield?
Our local experts guide relocation buyers from first call through closing day — even from out of state. No pressure, no obligation.
Contact Our Relocation Team → Get Pre-Approved →Skyler Realty | 4646 Wilson Road, Suite 101, Bakersfield, CA 93309 | 661-885-9021
Broker: Lourdes A. Palacios — CA DRE Lic. #01707166 | Agent: Kerit Z. Flores — CA DRE Lic. #01957621
Licensed by the CA Department of Real Estate. Member: Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® & Greater LA REALTORS®. REALTOR® is a registered trademark of the National Association of REALTORS®. Equal Housing Opportunity.