salaryBakersfield is 3% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Modesto to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$2,018
$1,988
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,407
$1,761
💵 Families earn per year
$86,862
$86,162
🔑 Buying a house
$371,700
$442,700
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
100.9
104.1
🏛️ Property tax per year
$3,619
$2,835
⚡ Electric bill per month
$203
$166
👥 People living there
411,986
219,215
Commute to work
23.6 min
30.2 min
College degree
23.6%
21.2%
Own their home
60.6%
58.9%
Below poverty line
16.3%
13.3%
Unemployment
7%
7.2%
Bottom line
- Pick Bakersfield for cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, higher incomes, cheaper homes and 3 more.
- Pick Modesto for lower rent, less poverty.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Bakersfield | Modesto | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary School Teacher | $79,900 | $101,640 | +27% in Modesto |
| Police Officer | $78,130 | $98,230 | +26% in Modesto |
| Physician Assistant | $198,070 | $165,730 | -16% in Modesto |
| Restaurant Cook | $37,800 | $41,910 | +11% in Modesto |
| Carpenter | $66,540 | $73,730 | +11% in Modesto |
| Lawyer | $150,900 | $164,010 | +9% in Modesto |
| Dental Hygienist | $114,380 | $123,910 | +8% in Modesto |
| Software Developer | $130,330 | $119,770 | -8% in Modesto |
Frequently asked questions
Is Bakersfield or Modesto cheaper to live in?
Bakersfield is about 3% cheaper overall. Rent is $2,018 a month there versus $1,988 in Modesto.
What salary do I need in Modesto to match $60,000 in Bakersfield?
About $61,916 a year gives the same standard of living in Modesto.
Where do people earn more, Bakersfield or Modesto?
The typical household earns $86,862 in Bakersfield and $86,162 in Modesto, 1% more in Bakersfield.