Bakersfield vs Salem
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Bakersfield is 12% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,018/mo vs $1,137/mo in Salem — saving $1,428/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Bakersfield | Salem | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $683 | $741 | $58 |
| 1 Bedroom | $854 | $913 | $59 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,018 | $1,137 | $119 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,326 | $1,411 | $85 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,528 | $1,615 | $87 |
| Median Income | $67,968 | $53,953 | $14,015 |
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
Salem
- Studio
- $741/mo
- 1 BR
- $913/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,137/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,411/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,615/mo
- Median Income
- $53,953/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bakersfield or Salem cheaper to rent in?
Bakersfield is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,018/mo vs $1,137/mo in Salem. That's $119/mo or $1,428/year more expensive in Salem (12% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Bakersfield vs Salem?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Bakersfield is $1,018/month. In Salem, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,137/month.
How do incomes compare between Bakersfield and Salem?
The median household income in Bakersfield is $67,968/year. In Salem it is $53,953/year. Bakersfield has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Bakersfield vs Salem?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Bakersfield is $683/mo. In Salem it is $741/mo.