Bakersfield vs Modesto
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Bakersfield is 7% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,018/mo vs $1,092/mo in Modesto — saving $888/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Bakersfield | Modesto | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $683 | $727 | $44 |
| 1 Bedroom | $854 | $912 | $58 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,018 | $1,092 | $74 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,326 | $1,412 | $86 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,528 | $1,509 | $19 |
| Median Income | $67,968 | $56,394 | $11,574 |
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
Modesto
- Studio
- $727/mo
- 1 BR
- $912/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,092/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,412/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,509/mo
- Median Income
- $56,394/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bakersfield or Modesto cheaper to rent in?
Bakersfield is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,018/mo vs $1,092/mo in Modesto. That's $74/mo or $888/year more expensive in Modesto (7% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Bakersfield vs Modesto?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Bakersfield is $1,018/month. In Modesto, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,092/month.
How do incomes compare between Bakersfield and Modesto?
The median household income in Bakersfield is $67,968/year. In Modesto it is $56,394/year. Bakersfield has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Bakersfield vs Modesto?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Bakersfield is $683/mo. In Modesto it is $727/mo.