Median Income
$36,951
51% lower than US avg
Home Value
$87,700
69% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
276/100K
27% lower than US avg
Bachelor's+
8.3%
75% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$1,188
2% higher than US avg
Obesity Rate
41.5%
29% higher than US avg
Unemployment
7.1%
97% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
35.3%
185% higher than US avg
How Bakersfield Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population246
Median Age47.1 yrs
Density180/mi²
Male / Female39% / 61%
Largest GroupWhite 100%
Veterans7.8%
Economy
D
Median Income$36,951
Per Capita$26,965
Unemployment7.1%
Poverty35.3%
Commute24 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$87,700
Rent$1,188
Ownership86.8%
Zillow$197,295
Housing Units163
Rent Burden51.0%
Crime
F
Violent276/100K
Property5,876/100K
Health
Obesity41.5%
Uninsured11.9%
Smoking23.4%
Depression28.2%
Heart Disease7.5%
Climate
Avg Temp57°F (14°C)
AQI41 (Good)
Rain44.1 in/yr
Sunny Days256/yr
Elevation722 ft (220 m)
Education
D
Bachelor's+8.3%
High School+66.7%
Graduate+0.0%
School Score5.51
Community
2024 VoteR 77% / D 22%
Commute24 min
Broadband59.7%
EV Stations4
Is Bakersfield a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Bakersfield receives an overall livability score of 2.4 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C. Key strengths include low crime rates, affordable housing, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include above-average unemployment, an elevated poverty rate, below-average incomes. Bakersfield has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Bakersfield is $36,951, 51% below the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 7.1% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. The poverty rate of 35.3% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 24 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Bakersfield is $87,700, 69% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $1,188 per month. At just 2.4x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Safety & Crime
Violent crime in Bakersfield is below the national average at 276 per 100,000 residents (U.S. avg: 380). Property crime occurs at a rate of 5,876 per 100,000, 200% above the national average.
Education
8.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 66.7% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.5/10.
Climate & Weather
Bakersfield enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 57°F. Winters average 33°F in January while summers reach 78°F in July. With 256 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 44.1 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41.
Bakersfield has a population of 246 with a density of 180 people per square mile, spread across 1.4 square miles. The median age is 47.1 years, 21% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 61.4% female and 38.6% male. The city is predominantly White (99.6%). English is the primary language spoken at home by 99.5% of residents. 7.8% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 33.3% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 77.9% have health insurance coverage.
Population
47.1yrs
Median Age
21% above US avg
Race & Ethnicity
Bakersfield vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
99.5%
27% above US avg
Spanish
0.5%
96% below US avg
Social Characteristics
Bakersfield vs U.S. Average
The median household income in Bakersfield is $36,951, which is 51% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $26,965 (below the $39,052 national figure). The unemployment rate is 7.1% (above the 3.6% US average). 35.3% of residents live below the poverty line, higher than the national rate of 12.4%. The cost of living index is 90.8, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 24 minutes. 5.5% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income: Bakersfield vs U.S.
Income
| Median HH Income | $36,951 |
| 51% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $26,965 |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 7.1% |
| 97% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 35.3% |
| 185% above US avg |
Tax & Cost of Living
| |
| Cost of Living | 90.80 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 24.0 min |
| Drive Alone | 86.8% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 5.5% |
The median home value in Bakersfield is $87,700, 69% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $197,295, higher than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $1,188 (2% above the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $775 for a one-bedroom to $970 for a two-bedroom apartment. 86.8% of housing units are owner-occupied (above the 65.4% national rate). There are 163 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1988. 51.0% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing, indicating a significant affordability challenge for renters. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.4x, well within the affordable range.
Home Values
| Census Median | $87,700 |
| 69% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $197,295 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $1,188 |
| 2% above US avg |
| Rent Burden | 51.0% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $732 |
| 1 Bedroom | $775 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,265 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,457 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 86.8% |
| Owner-Occupied | 86.8% |
| Renter-Occupied | 13.2% |
| Housing Units | 163 |
| Median Year Built | 1988 |
Property Tax
In Bakersfield, 41.5% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 12.2% have diabetes (above the 10.5% national rate). Heart disease affects 7.5% of residents, above the national average. 35.9% have high blood pressure. 23.4% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 17.1% report binge drinking. 34.6% are physically inactive, above the national average. 28.2% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 21.9% experience frequent mental distress. 11.9% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate).
Health Metrics: Bakersfield vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 41.5% |
| 29% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 12.2% |
| Heart Disease | 7.5% |
| High Blood Pressure | 35.9% |
| Asthma | 11.5% |
| COPD | 10.2% |
| Cancer | 7.3% |
| Stroke | 3.9% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 23.4% |
| 67% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 17.1% |
| Physical Inactivity | 34.6% |
| Depression | 28.2% |
| Mental Distress | 21.9% |
| Physical Distress | 17.2% |
| Short Sleep | 39.6% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 77.9% |
| Uninsured | 11.9% |
| 38% above US avg |
| Checkup Rate | 74.9% |
| Dental Visits | 50.5% |
Food & Exercise
Bakersfield has a violent crime rate of 276 per 100,000 residents, 27% below the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 5,876 per 100,000, 200% above the U.S. average. Overall, Bakersfield receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Bakersfield vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 276.0/100K |
| 27% below US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 5,876.2/100K |
| 200% above US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Avg Accident Severity | 0.0 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Bakersfield enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 57°F (14°C). Winters average 33°F in January while summers reach 78°F in July. The area gets 256 sunny days per year, above the national average. Annual precipitation totals 44.1 inches. The area receives 2.4 inches of snow annually. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41. The city sits at an elevation of 722 feet.
Temperature
33°F Jan (0°C)
78°F Jul (26°C)
| Annual Average | 56.7°F |
| 5% above US avg |
| January Average | 33°F (0°C) |
| July Average | 78°F (26°C) |
| Sunny Days | 256 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 722 ft (220 m) |
| Area | 1.4 sq mi (3.5 km²) |
| Population Density | 180/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 36.5226°N, 92.1427°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| Nearest Airport | Marion County Regional (FLP)
30 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
44.1"
16% above US avg
Wettest Month (May)
4.72"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 41.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Earthquake History
271 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M4.7. Most recent: M2.9 on Jun 27, 2025.
| Feb 28, 2011 |
4 km NE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M4.7 |
141 km |
| May 4, 2001 |
8 km NNW of Holland, Arkansas |
M4.3 |
143 km |
| Feb 18, 2011 |
4 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M4.1 |
141 km |
| Oct 21, 1999 |
9 km NW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
105 km |
| Apr 8, 2011 |
3 km NE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
142 km |
| Feb 18, 2011 |
3 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
142 km |
| Jul 7, 1991 |
11 km ENE of Brandsville, Missouri |
M3.9 |
55 km |
| Aug 22, 2000 |
19 km WNW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
93 km |
| Feb 17, 2011 |
4 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
141 km |
| Jun 4, 2014 |
3 km ESE of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
105 km |
| Sep 12, 2019 |
13 km N of Big Flat, Arkansas |
M3.7 |
50 km |
| Apr 7, 2011 |
2 km NE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.7 |
143 km |
| Aug 16, 2003 |
5 km W of Thomasville, Missouri |
M3.7 |
57 km |
| Sep 22, 2011 |
6 km E of Grandin, Missouri |
M3.6 |
129 km |
| Feb 20, 2011 |
3 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
142 km |
| Jun 11, 2017 |
6 km NNE of Bergman, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
78 km |
| Feb 28, 2011 |
4 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
141 km |
| Feb 16, 2011 |
4 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.5 |
141 km |
| Feb 25, 2011 |
4 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.5 |
140 km |
| Mar 9, 2011 |
1 km NW of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.5 |
144 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Tornado History
354 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 46 fatalities, 516 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Apr 14, 1996 |
EF4 |
80 km |
7 |
| Dec 24, 1982 |
EF4 |
60 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 1982 |
EF4 |
9 km |
2 |
| May 21, 1957 |
EF4 |
99 km |
7 |
| Mar 25, 1954 |
EF4 |
89 km |
2 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
61 km |
1 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
64 km |
0 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
90 km |
4 |
| May 8, 2009 |
EF3 |
44 km |
0 |
| Mar 1, 2007 |
EF3 |
8 km |
1 |
| Mar 5, 1996 |
EF3 |
60 km |
0 |
| Nov 18, 1985 |
EF3 |
61 km |
3 |
| Oct 18, 1984 |
EF3 |
62 km |
1 |
| Dec 2, 1982 |
EF3 |
60 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 1982 |
EF3 |
80 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 1982 |
EF3 |
11 km |
2 |
| Apr 11, 1979 |
EF3 |
55 km |
0 |
| Apr 20, 1973 |
EF3 |
99 km |
1 |
| Apr 19, 1973 |
EF3 |
98 km |
0 |
| Apr 7, 1972 |
EF3 |
84 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Wildfire History
20 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: HANDY (12,818 ac, 2012).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2012 |
HANDY |
12,818 |
97 km |
| 2007 |
DEAD HORSE |
10,389 |
53 km |
| 2004 |
LOWER WILD |
10,034 |
53 km |
| 2011 |
UNNAMED |
9,641 |
99 km |
| 2022 |
CEDAR BLUFF |
9,617 |
96 km |
| 2013 |
LOWER WILDERNESS RX |
8,699 |
53 km |
| 2020 |
BIG BARREN CREEK |
8,150 |
97 km |
| 2007 |
UNNAMED |
6,931 |
64 km |
| 2021 |
SYL BIRMINGHAM |
6,803 |
52 km |
| 2011 |
UNNAMED |
6,686 |
62 km |
| 2010 |
BRUSHY/CLAYTON |
6,401 |
64 km |
| 2020 |
BIG CREEK |
6,399 |
62 km |
| 2021 |
ROCK PILE |
5,067 |
45 km |
| 2018 |
UNNAMED |
4,873 |
53 km |
| 2019 |
UNNAMED |
4,493 |
56 km |
| 2014 |
UNNAMED |
4,337 |
55 km |
| 2020 |
CAVE CREEK |
4,263 |
95 km |
| 2016 |
BIG CREEK |
4,031 |
63 km |
| 2016 |
UNNAMED |
3,807 |
53 km |
| 2024 |
RX BAD BRANCH 2 |
3,591 |
59 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
33°F (0°C) |
2.4 in |
Coldest, Driest |
| February |
38°F (4°C) |
2.8 in |
|
| March |
48°F (9°C) |
4.4 in |
|
| April |
57°F (14°C) |
4.2 in |
|
| May |
65°F (18°C) |
4.7 in |
Wettest |
| June |
73°F (23°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| July |
78°F (26°C) |
3.1 in |
Warmest |
| August |
77°F (25°C) |
3.4 in |
|
| September |
70°F (21°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| October |
58°F (15°C) |
3.3 in |
|
| November |
47°F (8°C) |
4.2 in |
|
| December |
37°F (3°C) |
3.8 in |
|
Bakersfield has a seasonal temperature swing of 45°F / from 33°F in January to 78°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 44.1 inches, with May being the wettest month (4.7") and January the driest (2.4").
Average costs for common services in Bakersfield. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$227 ($136–$363) |
| Specialist Visit |
$318 ($182–$499) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$182 ($91–$318) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$1,998 ($726–$4,540) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$118 ($68–$182) |
| Dental Filling |
$227 ($136–$363) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$41 ($23–$68) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$68 ($45–$109) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$272 ($136–$454) |
| Tire Rotation |
$36 ($18–$68) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$545 ($363–$908) |
| Battery Replacement |
$182 ($91–$318) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$91 ($54–$136) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$82 ($45–$127) |
| HVAC Repair |
$363 ($136–$726) |
| HVAC System Install |
$6,356 ($3,632–$10,896) |
| Roof Repair |
$908 ($363–$1,816) |
| Roof Replacement |
$8,172 ($4,994–$13,620) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,362 ($454–$3,178) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$13,620 ($4,540–$27,240) |
| DUI Defense |
$4,540 ($1,816–$9,080) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,362 ($726–$2,724) |
| Will Preparation |
$454 ($182–$908) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,270 ($908–$4,540) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$23 ($14–$41) |
| Women's Haircut |
$50 ($27–$91) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$136 ($68–$227) |
| Manicure |
$23 ($14–$41) |
| Pedicure |
$36 ($23–$59) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$73 ($45–$118) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$3.72 ($2.72–$4.99) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.18 ($2.27–$4.54) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.45 ($2.27–$4.99) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$4.09 ($2.72–$5.90) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$4.99 ($3.63–$6.81) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$0.91 ($0.54–$1.63) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$127 ($73–$227) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$64 ($27–$136) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$64 ($36–$109) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$64 ($36–$91) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$59 ($27–$91) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$77 ($45–$136) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$182 ($68–$454) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$1,816 ($1,090–$3,178) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$64 ($27–$118) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$14 ($7.26–$23) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$91 ($27–$227) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$27 ($14–$68) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,090 ($545–$2,270) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$908 ($454–$1,816) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$363 ($182–$636) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$45 ($23–$91) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$908 ($363–$2,270) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$11,350 ($4,540–$27,240) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$54 ($27–$91) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$91 ($45–$182) |
| Dog Grooming |
$54 ($27–$91) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$36 ($18–$68) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$272 ($136–$454) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$182 ($91–$363) |
View all 9 services
Frequently Asked Questions About Bakersfield
What is the population of Bakersfield?
Bakersfield has a population of 246 residents and is located in Missouri. The population density is 180 people per square mile, spread across 1.4 square miles. The median age of residents is 47.1 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 61.4% female and 38.6% male.
Is Bakersfield expensive to live in?
Bakersfield is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 90.8 / below the baseline of 100. The median household income is $36,951, 51% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $87,700 (69% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $1,188 per month. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Bakersfield safe?
Bakersfield is safer than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 276 per 100,000 compared to the U.S. rate of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 5,876 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Bakersfield receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Bakersfield?
Bakersfield enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 57°F (14°C). Winter temperatures average 33°F in January, while summers reach an average of 78°F in July. The area receives 256 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 44.1 inches, with 2.4 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 41.
How is the job market in Bakersfield?
The unemployment rate in Bakersfield is 7.1%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average commute time is 24 minutes, and 5.5% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Bakersfield?
The median home value in Bakersfield is $87,700. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $197,295. For renters, the median monthly rent is $1,188. Fair market rent is $775 for a 1-bedroom and $970 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 86.8%.
How are the schools in Bakersfield?
Schools in Bakersfield score 5.5 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 8.3% of adults in Bakersfield hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 66.7% have completed high school. 0.0% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Bakersfield?
The obesity rate in Bakersfield is 41.5% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 23.4% of adults are smokers. 34.6% are physically inactive. 28.2% of residents report depression. 11.9% lack health insurance (above the national rate).
What is transportation like in Bakersfield?
The average commute in Bakersfield is 24 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 86.8% of workers drive alone to work, and 5.5% work from home.
What are the demographics of Bakersfield?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Bakersfield is 99.6% White. 99.5% of residents speak only English at home. 7.8% of the population are military veterans. 33.3% of residents have a disability. 77.9% have health insurance coverage.
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