Bakersfield, CA vs Santa Ana, CA: 104 vs 163

$1,371/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 44%

$77,397/yr ↓ 12%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↑ 14%

$347,300 ↓ 47%

Home Value

$657,800 ↑ 89%

$1,540/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↑ 28%

408,366

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Bakersfield, CA and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 104 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $604/month cheaper in Bakersfield, saving renters about $7,248/year.

Median household income is $10,957/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Bakersfield is $347,300 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bakersfield vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Bakersfield or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Bakersfield is cheaper to live in with an index of 104 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Bakersfield and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Bakersfield is $1,371/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $604/month.

Which city has higher income, Bakersfield or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $77,397 in Bakersfield and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $10,957/year higher in Santa Ana.

How do taxes compare between California and California?

Both cities are in California and share the same state tax rates: 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Bakersfield or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Bakersfield has a cost index of 104 with median rent of $1,371/mo, while Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with rent of $1,975/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Bakersfield, CA vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Bakersfield

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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