Bakersfield vs San Luis Obispo
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Bakersfield is 59% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,018/mo vs $1,623/mo in San Luis Obispo — saving $7,260/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Bakersfield | San Luis Obispo | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $683 | $1,065 | $382 |
| 1 Bedroom | $854 | $1,360 | $506 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,018 | $1,623 | $605 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,326 | $2,039 | $713 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,528 | $2,372 | $844 |
| Median Income | $67,968 | $94,761 | $26,793 |
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
San Luis Obispo
- Studio
- $1,065/mo
- 1 BR
- $1,360/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,623/mo
- 3 BR
- $2,039/mo
- 4 BR
- $2,372/mo
- Median Income
- $94,761/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bakersfield or San Luis Obispo cheaper to rent in?
Bakersfield is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,018/mo vs $1,623/mo in San Luis Obispo. That's $605/mo or $7,260/year more expensive in San Luis Obispo (59% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Bakersfield vs San Luis Obispo?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Bakersfield is $1,018/month. In San Luis Obispo, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,623/month.
How do incomes compare between Bakersfield and San Luis Obispo?
The median household income in Bakersfield is $67,968/year. In San Luis Obispo it is $94,761/year. San Luis Obispo has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Bakersfield vs San Luis Obispo?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Bakersfield is $683/mo. In San Luis Obispo it is $1,065/mo.