Cost of Living in Bakersfield, CA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
131.1
100 = national avg
+31.1 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$57,705
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$136,394
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing162.2
Food109.2
Transportation118.3
Healthcare107.3
Utilities117.9
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,140
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,483
per month
The overall cost of living index in Bakersfield is 131.1, which is 31.1% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 162.2. A single adult needs to earn approximately $57,705 per year to cover basic expenses.