The Lazy Man’s Guide to Relocating to Bakersfield, CA
The Lazy Man’s Guide to Relocating to Bakersfield, CA
Nov 29, 2024
Moving to a new city can be exciting but also incredibly draining, especially if it’s a long-distance move. Who has the energy to handle all the details of relocating to Bakersfield? This lazy man’s guide has you covered with key info about the city plus tips for making the moving process as seamless as possible.
Overview of Bakersfield Population: Key Facts and Stats
Bakersfield is located in Kern County, north of Los Angeles. With affordable homes, a growing job market, and access to bigger cities, it appeals to many prospective residents. Here’s a quick rundown of facts about Bakersfield:
Population: 381,538
Average Home Price: $311,100
Average Rent: $990 for a 2-bedroom
Unemployment Rate: 8.0%
Median Household Income: $60,058
Top Industries: Healthcare, Retail, Education, Oil/Gas
Why do People Move to Bakersfield?
Bakersfield is becoming a popular choice for people seeking affordable living combined with career growth. Here are some of the top reasons to consider making Bakersfield your new home:
Lower cost of living than many CA cities: Compared to many California cities, Bakersfield offers significantly lower housing costs and utility bills.
Job opportunities: With key industries like healthcare, agriculture, and oil, the city is ripe with job opportunities.
Excellent Schools: Quality education is a key selling point for families, with top-rated school districts like Panama Buena-Vista Union and Rosedale Union.
Outdoor Recreation: The proximity to Sequoia National Forest, local parks, and Lake Ming offers plenty of recreational activities.
Convenient Location: Bakersfield’s location provides easy access to Los Angeles and other major cities, making it a strategic place for commuting or weekend trips.
Lower Taxes: State taxes in California are high, but Bakersfield’s lower overall cost of living and taxes offer savings for residents.
Potential Downsides to Consider
Bakersfield isn’t for everyone though. Some cons to keep in mind:
Hot summers and dry climate
Higher crime rates than the national average
Air pollution concerns
Wildfire risks during droughts
Mostly car-dependent city with limited public transportation
Best Neighborhoods in Bakersfield
When relocating, choosing the right neighborhood is key to your experience. Here are some of the best areas to live in Bakersfield:
Stockdale Estates: Known for its high-end homes and excellent amenities.
Tevis Ranch: A desirable neighborhood with larger homes and a suburban feel.
CSU Bakersfield Area: Great for students and faculty, with affordable housing options.
Artisan: A newer neighborhood with modern homes and parks.
The Oaks: A well-established neighborhood with quiet streets and family-friendly amenities.
Stone Meadows: Affordable homes with good access to schools and shopping.
Haggin Oaks: An established, quiet neighborhood with larger homes and convenient access to downtown.
These neighborhoods have higher home values, incomes, and amenities.
Cost of Living in Bakersfield
Bakersfield offers a cost of living that’s below both California’s average and the national average. Here’s how the cost of living compares:
Housing: The average home price in Bakersfield is much lower than other major California cities, making it an attractive place for first-time homebuyers or people looking to downsize.
Utilities & Transportation: These expenses are more affordable in Bakersfield compared to larger urban areas like Los Angeles or San Francisco.
Healthcare: While healthcare costs are slightly above the national average, they are still relatively low compared to other big cities in California.
Job Market and Economy
The Bakersfield job market is steadily growing, driven by industries such as healthcare, oil & gas, agriculture, and manufacturing. The city’s economy has been resilient, providing jobs across various sectors. Here’s a breakdown:
Top Industries: Healthcare (large hospitals and medical centers), Oil/Gas (Kern County is one of the largest oil-producing regions), Agriculture (farming is a key economic driver), Education (CSU Bakersfield and other institutions).
Unemployment Rate: Currently at 8.0%, Bakersfield’s unemployment rate is above the national average but has been improving with job market growth.
Tax Rates in California
Keep in mind the high state income tax up to 13.3% if relocating from out of state. Sales tax and property taxes are also above average.
Things to Do in Bakersfield
Activities range from:
Live Music at the Crystal Palace: A Bakersfield landmark for country music lovers.
Fox Theater: Historic venue offering performing arts and live shows.
Murray Family Farms: Great for farm tours and seasonal fruit picking.
Lake Ming: Offers boating, swimming, and picnic areas.
Sequoia National Forest: A short drive away for hiking, camping, and exploring giant sequoia trees.
Crime and Safety in Bakersfield
Bakersfield’s crime rate is higher than the national average, with property crimes being the most common. However, crime rates vary significantly by neighborhood, and some areas are safer than others.
Schools and Education
Bakersfield offers access to a variety of quality schools, both public and private. Some top-rated districts include:
Panama Buena-Vista Union School District
Rosedale Union School District
Bakersfield City School District
Additionally, CSU Bakersfield provides higher education opportunities for those pursuing college degrees or specialized programs.
Making the Move to Bakersfield Painless
Moving is never easy, but you can simplify the process:
Schedule utilities and services ahead of time online
Update your address in bulk using change of address services
Shop for furniture online and schedule delivery
Order groceries and meals for move-in week
Explore the area virtually before hitting the streets
Bakersfield offers a unique blend of affordability, job opportunities, and recreational activities, making it an attractive option for many. Take the stress out of relocation with this lazy man’s guide to moving and getting situated in Bakersfield!
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