Salary Needed to Live in Bakersfield as a Family

A family of four (2 adults, 2 children) needs approximately $58,966/year to live comfortably in Bakersfield, CA — including 15% savings.

Comfortable Salary
$58,966
with 15% savings
Bare Minimum
$46,849
no savings buffer
Monthly Expenses
$2,850
3% below national avg

Detailed Monthly Budget for a Family in Bakersfield

ExpenseBakersfieldNat'l AvgDiff
🏠 3BR Apartment/House Rent$191$209-9%
🛒 Groceries$52$44+18%
⚡ Utilities$24$28-14%
🚗 Transportation$44$440%
🛡️ Car Insurance$163$215-24%
🏥 Health Insurance$46$54-15%
Childcare/After-school$1,200$1,2000%
Internet + Phones$180$1800%
Children Activities$250$2500%
Dining Out$350$3500%
School Supplies & Clothing$200$2000%
Healthcare Co-pays$150$1500%
Total Monthly$2,850$2,924-3%

How We Calculated the Salary

Monthly expenses:$2,850
Target savings (15%):$633/mo
Monthly after-tax needed:$3,483
Effective tax rate:27%

Gross annual salary needed:$58,966

Other Household Types in Bakersfield

Single Person
$19,333/yr
$1,015/mo expenses
Couple (No Kids)
$27,167/yr
$1,381/mo expenses
Retiree
$20,082/yr
$1,138/mo expenses

Related Pages

Living Alone in BakersfieldCity OverviewAfford on $75K?Afford on $100K?Cost of Living

FAQ

What salary does a family with kids need in Bakersfield?
A family with kids needs approximately $58,966/year ($4,914/month gross) to live comfortably in Bakersfield with a 15% savings rate.
How much is rent for a family with kids in Bakersfield?
A 3br apartment/house in Bakersfield costs approximately $191/month, which is the largest single expense at 7% of the total budget.
Is Bakersfield affordable for a family with kids?
Bakersfield is roughly average for family with kids costs, requiring a salary close to the national median.
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