Is Bakersfield or Detroit more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Detroit is $800/month. Detroit is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Detroit, MI
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Detroit.
2
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Detroit wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
MI
Detroit
Overview
403,455
Population
672,662
$55,026✓
Median Income
-39.3%$33,381
Cost of Living
$1,150
Median Rent / mo
-30.4%$800✓
$310,000
Median Home Price
-72.6%$85,000✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
4.25%✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
58°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
40°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
183 days
7"
Annual Rainfall
34"
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
Detroit, MI
Detroit is a city in Michigan with a population of 672,662.
Read full Detroit guide →Bakersfield vs Detroit — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Detroit?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Michigan has a 4.25% state income tax. Detroit wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Detroit?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Detroit gets 183 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Detroit: 58°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Detroit?
Bakersfield. Detroit. 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.