Bakersfield vs Helena
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Helena is 19% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $857/mo vs $1,018/mo in Bakersfield — saving $1,932/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Bakersfield | Helena | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $683 | $577 | $106 |
| 1 Bedroom | $854 | $711 | $143 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,018 | $857 | $161 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,326 | $1,057 | $269 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,528 | $1,186 | $342 |
| Median Income | $67,968 | $47,790 | $20,178 |
Bakersfield
- Studio
- $683/mo
- 1 BR
- $854/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,018/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,326/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,528/mo
- Median Income
- $67,968/yr
Helena
- Studio
- $577/mo
- 1 BR
- $711/mo
- 2 BR
- $857/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,057/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,186/mo
- Median Income
- $47,790/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bakersfield or Helena cheaper to rent in?
Helena is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $857/mo vs $1,018/mo in Bakersfield. That's $161/mo or $1,932/year more expensive in Bakersfield (19% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Bakersfield vs Helena?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Bakersfield is $1,018/month. In Helena, a 2-bedroom FMR is $857/month.
How do incomes compare between Bakersfield and Helena?
The median household income in Bakersfield is $67,968/year. In Helena it is $47,790/year. Bakersfield has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Bakersfield vs Helena?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Bakersfield is $683/mo. In Helena it is $577/mo.