Is Bakersfield or Boston more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Boston is $1,783/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Boston, MA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Boston.
3
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Boston wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
MA
Boston
Overview
403,455
Population
672,814
$55,026
Median Income
+48.6%$81,744✓
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+55.0%$1,783
$310,000✓
Median Home Price
+96.9%$610,400
25%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
5.00%✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
45.41°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
42.48°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
7"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Bakersfield vs Boston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Boston?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Boston?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Boston?
Bakersfield. Boston. 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.