Is Bakersfield or Indianapolis more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Indianapolis is $1,000/month. Indianapolis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Indianapolis, IN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Indianapolis.
2
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Indianapolis wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
IN
Indianapolis
Overview
403,455
Population
887,642
$55,026✓
Median Income
-6.9%$51,225
Cost of Living
$1,150
Median Rent / mo
-13.0%$1,000✓
$310,000
Median Home Price
-27.4%$225,000✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
3.15%✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.00%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
42°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
186 days
7"
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis is a city in Indiana with a population of 887,642.
Read full Indianapolis guide →Bakersfield vs Indianapolis — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Indianapolis?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Indiana has a 3.15% state income tax. Indianapolis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Indianapolis?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Indianapolis gets 186 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Indianapolis: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Indianapolis?
Bakersfield. Indianapolis. 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.