Bakersfield vs Lake Charles
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Lake Charles is 39% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $735/mo vs $1,018/mo in Bakersfield — saving $3,396/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Bakersfield | Lake Charles | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $683 | $490 | $193 |
| 1 Bedroom | $854 | $592 | $262 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,018 | $735 | $283 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,326 | $930 | $396 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,528 | $984 | $544 |
| Median Income | $67,968 | $45,479 | $22,489 |
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
Lake Charles
- Studio
- $490/mo
- 1 BR
- $592/mo
- 2 BR
- $735/mo
- 3 BR
- $930/mo
- 4 BR
- $984/mo
- Median Income
- $45,479/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bakersfield or Lake Charles cheaper to rent in?
Lake Charles is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $735/mo vs $1,018/mo in Bakersfield. That's $283/mo or $3,396/year more expensive in Bakersfield (39% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Bakersfield vs Lake Charles?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Bakersfield is $1,018/month. In Lake Charles, a 2-bedroom FMR is $735/month.
How do incomes compare between Bakersfield and Lake Charles?
The median household income in Bakersfield is $67,968/year. In Lake Charles it is $45,479/year. Bakersfield has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Bakersfield vs Lake Charles?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Bakersfield is $683/mo. In Lake Charles it is $490/mo.