Is Bakersfield or San Jose more affordable?
Bakersfield has a median rent of $1,150/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. Bakersfield is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Bakersfield, CA vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Bakersfield and San Jose.
3
Bakersfield wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Jose wins
CA
Bakersfield
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
403,455
Population
1,013,240
$55,026
Median Income
+113.5%$117,474✓
Cost of Living
$1,150✓
Median Rent / mo
+117.4%$2,500
$310,000✓
Median Home Price
+254.8%$1,100,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
276 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
257 days
7"
Annual Rainfall
15"
Who should choose
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield is a city in California with a population of 403,455.
Read full Bakersfield guide →Who should choose
San Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →Bakersfield vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Bakersfield or San Jose?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Bakersfield and San Jose?
Bakersfield gets 276 sunny days/year. San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in Bakersfield: 81°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Bakersfield or San Jose?
Bakersfield. San Jose. 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.