Bakersfield, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
411,986
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$80,540/yr
4.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
135,724
1.4% year-over-year change

Bakersfield population

How many people live in Bakersfield

Bakersfield is home to 411,986 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Bakersfield locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
411,986
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
202,723
Female
50.8%
209,263
Value Percent YoY change
Male 202,723 49.2% 0.3%
Female 209,263 50.8% 1.4%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Bakersfield is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 24% are children under 15, then 15.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.8% of the population, while another 20.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
24%
15 to 24
15.1%
25 to 44
28.8%
45 to 64
20.8%
Over 65
11.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 98,845 24% -1.6%
15 to 24 62,208 15.1% 2.9%
25 to 44 118,768 28.8% 0.8%
45 to 64 85,493 20.8% 0.1%
Over 65 46,672 11.3% 5.4%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Bakersfield, 78.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 41.6% of locals are Caucasian, 6% are African American and 8.1% have Asian roots. Another 1.4% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 18.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 23.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.6%
Non-citizens
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 324,341 78.7% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 43,847 10.6% 1.7%
Non-citizens 43,798 10.6% 3.3%
Racial breakdown
White
41.6%
Black or African American
6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
8.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
23.9%
Other
18.8%
Value Percent
White 171,541 41.6%
Black or African American 24,943 6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,580 1.4%
Asian 33,474 8.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 710 0.2%
Two or more races 98,304 23.9%
Other 77,434 18.8%

Households in Bakersfield

A peek inside Bakersfield households

Bakersfield has 129,625 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 74.8% are families, while the remaining 25.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
129,625
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
32,649
Family households
96,976
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 32,649 25.2% 0.5%
Family households 96,976 74.8% 1.9%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Bakersfield

The housing landscape of Bakersfield

Bakersfield's housing consists of 135,724 units, with 71.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
135,724
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 97,479 71.8%
1 unit, attached 4,573 3.4%
2 units 2,267 1.7%
3 or 4 units 9,159 6.8%
5 to 9 units 6,374 4.7%
10 to 19 units 3,286 2.4%
20 to 49 units 2,157 1.6%
50 or more units 6,270 4.6%
Mobile home 4,027 3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 132 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
2,044
84.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Bakersfield

In Bakersfield, the median construction year is 1990. About 3.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,166 3.1% 0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,426 2.5% 5.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,861 6.5% -4.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 11,002 8.1% 0.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 19,530 14.4% 0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 20,679 15.2% -1.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 20,731 15.3% 3.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 29,213 21.5% -1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 16,072 11.8% 7.4%
Built in 2020 or later 2,044 1.5% 84.8%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Bakersfield occupancy rates

Out of the 129,625 occupied housing units in Bakersfield, 60.6% are owner-occupied, while 39.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
129,625
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
51,104
Owner occupied
78,521
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 51,104 39.4% 0.5%
Owner occupied 78,521 60.6% 2.3%
Unoccupied housing units
4.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Bakersfield housing costs

Housing costs in Bakersfield come to a median of $1,607 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,472.

Median housing costs per month
$1,607/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Bakersfield
$1,472/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Bakersfield

Bakersfield education at a glance

About 36.9% of the population in Bakersfield went to high school, while 25.5% pursued college studies. Another 8% earned an associate degree and 13.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 24,305 8.3% 0.8%
High school diploma 107,619 36.9% 4.0%
College diploma 74,376 25.5% -1.3%
Associate degree 23,393 8% -2.7%
Bachelor's degree 40,637 13.9% 1.8%
Graduate degree 21,370 7.3% 4.5%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Bakersfield

How much people earn in Bakersfield

The average annual household income in Bakersfield was $103,729 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $80,540, reflecting a +4.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Bakersfield
$103,729/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Bakersfield
$80,540/year
4.1% year-over-year change

Bakersfield income by age

In Bakersfield, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,263. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,954 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,804, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $59,937 in earnings. Overall, 83.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,804 2.8%
25 - 44 $83,263 3.8%
45 - 64 $95,954 5.2%
Over 65 $59,937 2.9%
Above poverty level
337,856
Below poverty level
65,457
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 337,856 83.8% 0.6%
Below poverty level 65,457 16.2% 3.0%

Average renter income in Bakersfield

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Bakersfield, their median household income was $46,819 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$46,819
Rent-to-income ratio
37.7%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Bakersfield

Workforce and job types in Bakersfield

The job market in Bakersfield is powered by 176,756 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.1% run their own businesses, 64.9% are employed by private companies, and 18.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
176,756
1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
128,333
Blue collar
48,423
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 128,333 72.6% 1.6%
Blue collar 48,423 27.4% 0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
10.1%
Private companies
64.9%
Governmental workers
18.4%
Not for profit companies
6.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 17,887 10.1% 2.5%
Private companies 114,703 64.9% -0.2%
Governmental workers 32,547 18.4% 5.8%
Not for profit companies 11,619 6.6% 1.3%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
1.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Bakersfield stands at 7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Bakersfield

How people get around in Bakersfield

Commuting methods vary: 89.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 153,037 89.3% -0.0%
Taxicab 272 0.2% 94.3%
Bus or trolleybus 607 0.4% -30.1%
Railroad 22 0% -31.2%
Ferryboat 27 0% 200.0%
Motorcycle 64 0% -59.0%
Bicycle 190 0.1% 0.0%
Walk 1,302 0.8% -2.7%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Bakersfield by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
93301 13,620 5,690 $43,561 $60,793
93304 51,037 15,503 $50,790 $69,540
93305 37,714 11,227 $43,244 $60,316
93306 74,116 22,736 $69,805 $93,154
93307 85,945 23,173 $56,446 $69,769
93308 55,078 20,027 $62,445 $84,525
93309 63,217 22,453 $63,544 $81,871
93311 55,555 17,589 $116,263 $149,294
93312 58,384 18,330 $114,195 $136,878
93313 61,843 16,917 $91,943 $114,141

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FAQs about Bakersfield demographics 

What is the total population of Bakersfield?

Bakersfield has a total population of 411,986 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Bakersfield?

The gender ratio in Bakersfield is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (202,723 residents)
  • 50.8% females (209,263 residents)

What is the median age in Bakersfield?

The median age in Bakersfield is 32.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Bakersfield?

The age distribution in Bakersfield is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24% (98,845 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.1% (62,208 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.8% (118,768 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.8% (85,493 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.3% (46,672 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Bakersfield?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Bakersfield is as follows:
  • White: 41.6% (171,541 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6% (24,943 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (5,580 residents)
  • Asian: 8.1% (33,474 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (710 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 23.9% (98,304 residents)
  • Other: 18.8% (77,434 residents)

What percentage of the population in Bakersfield are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 78.7% of the population in Bakersfield.

How many housing units are there in Bakersfield?

There are 135,724 housing units in Bakersfield, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Bakersfield and what is the average household size?

Bakersfield has a total of 129,625 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Bakersfield?

Bakersfield has a median household income of $80,540, representing a +4.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Bakersfield?

The employment rate is 93% in Bakersfield, with a workforce of 176,756 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.6% (128,333 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.4% (48,423 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.1% (17,887 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.9% (114,703 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.4% (32,547 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.6% (11,619 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025