Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
11% cheaper
Bakersfield is 11% more affordable than Stockton. A $75,000 salary in Stockton is equivalent to $66,447 in Bakersfield.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Bakersfield has a housing index of 96 while Stockton sits at 126 (national average = 100). The median home in Bakersfield costs $310,000 compared to $400,000 in Stockton, a difference of $90,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Bakersfield versus $1,500 in Stockton.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Bakersfield scores 100 while Stockton scores 101. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Bakersfield (99) are lower than Stockton (101). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Bakersfield is $57,548 compared to $54,658 in Stockton. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Bakersfield.
Amazon affiliate links