Is Bakersfield or Raleigh more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and Raleigh.
3
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Raleigh wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
403,455
Population
467,665
$55,026
Median Income
+31.9%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+26.1%$1,450
$310,000✓
Median Home Price
+29.0%$400,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
4.75%✓
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
213 days
7"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Bakersfield vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or Raleigh?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Raleigh wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and Raleigh?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or Raleigh?
Bakersfield. Raleigh. 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.