Best Places to Live in Bakersfield: Located in Kern County at the southern end of California’s Central Valley, Bakersfield is a picturesque city with a host of unique offerings. Along with a rich history of agriculture & oil industry, the vibrant city is also known to be the Country Music Capital of the West Coast.
It is the birthplace of the Bakersfield Sound, a sub-genre of country music that was made popular by local musicians in the 50s & 60s. The city also features a hip arts and culture scene, featuring impressive museums, galleries, and fascinating street art.
What’s more? With the mighty Kern River passing through the city and plenty of open spaces there is a plethora of outdoor recreation activities for those who love an active lifestyle. Planning to move to this charming city?
We’ve got you covered with our ultimate list of the best places to live in Bakersfield:
Tevis Ranch #1
Looking for a tranquil suburban place to put down your roots? Tevis Ranch may be the place for you. Located on the outskirts of the city, this neighborhood provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Bakersfield while still providing access to the city’s amenities.
It is home to Seven Oaks Country Club which features an 18-hole golf course, pickleball & tennis courts, a fitness center, and five-star dining. You’ll also find numerous parks and playgrounds, perfect for a fun family outing.
What’s more? The schools here are highly-rated and housing options are affordable, making it a great choice for young professionals & families just starting.
Quailwood #2
Love to have an active lifestyle? Quailwood won’t disappoint. Perched on the shores of the Kern River, Quailwood offers a host of outdoor activities to indulge in. From picnicking on the riverside, and fishing in Truxtun Lake to playing with your dog at Kroll Park, there is something here for everyone.
Offering a short commute to Downtown, the place offers easy access to the vibrant shopping & dining scene of the city. You’ll also find excellent restaurants and various property types in the area, with apartment complexes and single-family homes. The housing prices here are at par with the city’s average.
Amberton #3
Exuding a small-town vibe, this quaint neighborhood is perfect for those looking for a quiet place with a tight-knit community. Being home to great schools, the place also attracts many families to put down their roots. With plenty of public parks, walking trails, and excellent restaurants, there is no dearth of activities to enjoy here.
What’s more? It’s only a few blocks away from the California State University of Bakersfield, attracting many students to utilize the affordable housing options in this charming neighborhood.
Downtown Bakersfield #4
Want to be in the middle of the action? Head to Downtown Bakersfield. Home to many businesses and companies, the area is also known as the central business district. With easy access to a host of job opportunities, the place also has a vibrant dining and shopping scene.
You’ll find various restaurants, shopping districts, charming bookstores, excellent cafes, and lively nightclubs. It also features the Bakersfield Museum of Art, with an impressive collection housed in its four galleries. Couple that with decent schools and affordable housing options.
Laurel Glen #5
This up-and-coming neighborhood is drawing many families and students to put down their roots. Home to a diverse community, it features Westwold Park and Corvallis Park, which offer a host of kid-friendly activities to enjoy. The neighborhood is also close to the local university and abounds in college bars, excellent restaurants, shops, and fitness centers.
What’s more? You can find affordable single-family homes and excellent apartments here. With so much to offer, it is one of the best places to live in Bakersfield CA.
Seven Oaks #6
Want to enjoy a tranquil suburban vibe with access to a vibrant entertainment scene? This affluent neighborhood may be the perfect option. From enjoying a lakeside picnic at The Park at Riverwalk to hiking and biking at the numerous trails, there is an array of outdoor activities to enjoy here. The area also features plenty of excellent restaurants serving scrumptious delicacies, intriguing shops, and lively bars.
What’s more? It is one of the city’s safest neighborhoods and is home to many top-rated schools. Housing options are expensive here but the offerings make it worth every penny.
CSU Bakersfield #7
Looking to enjoy a college town vibe? CSU Bakersfield is home to California State University and features a vibrant arts and culture scene with various events and theatre performances held here regularly.
Proximity to the Shops at River Walk offers a host of entertainment options, perfect for a lively evening out. There are also many open spaces and family-friendly outdoor activities to enjoy here. Since the area is home to a large student population, you can find affordable rental options here.
Olde Stockdale #8
One of the most affluent neighborhoods in the city, Olde Stockdale is home to many business executives, sales professionals, and professors. There is no dearth of entertainment here with the Stockdale Village and Stockdale Plaza nearby, featuring excellent restaurants, cafes, and shops.
If you love an active lifestyle, head to the Stockdale Country Club which features a picturesque golf course, tennis courts, and a fitness center. Enjoying all these offerings doesn’t come cheap but if budget is not a constraint, go for it.
So, choose the one that caters to your requirements & get ready to settle into your beautiful new home.
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FAQs:
Q. Is Bakersfield a good area to live in?
Known for its high quality of life, affordability, vibrant music scene, and excellent educational institutes, Bakersfield is a great place to settle down.
Q. Is it expensive to live in Bakersfield CA?
The cost of living in Bakersfield is lower than the state average, making it a great choice for young professionals and families just starting.
Q. Is it better to live in Fresno or Bakersfield?
While Fresno has an active nightlife and plenty of cultural attractions, Bakersfield offers a lower cost of living, a host of outdoor recreational activities, and a famous music scene. Bakersfield may be the perfect place for you if you’re looking to enjoy a vibrant city life under a budget.