Live an affordable version of the California dream
Why it matters: Bakersfield is one of California’s most affordable metros, with excellent quality of life, outdoor recreation, and a growing economy.
What’s ahead: Explore 3 suburbs with top schools, safe neighborhoods, and great amenities—all within an easy drive of Bakersfield.
1. Golden Hills
Scenic, peaceful, and adventure-ready
Population: 10,051| Median Home: $376K | School Rating: B- | Commute: 34 min
Housing: Ranch homes, cabins, and custom hillside properties
Education: Tehachapi Unified School District; nearby Bakersfield College
Safety: Low crime ranking safer than 43% of U.S. cities
Perks: Proximity to Tehachapi Mountain Park, hiking, Lake Isabella, local wineries, and wind energy jobs
Why it’s #1: Mountain views, outdoor living, and small-town charm with affordable homes
2. Rosedale
Spacious, suburban, and family-focused
Population: 18,639 | Median Home: $594K | School Rating: B+ | Commute: 28 min
Housing: Large single-family homes, new construction, semi-rural estates
Education: Rosedale Union School District; Kern High School District
Safety: Very safe, ranks in 77th percentile
Perks: The Park at River Walk, proximity to major employers in agriculture, energy, and healthcare; near Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
Why it shines: Upscale suburban living with space to spread out and top-rated schools
3. Greenacres
Population: 5,496| Median Home: $325K | School Rating: A- | Commute: 21 min
Housing: Affordable single-family homes, townhomes, starter homes
Education: Fruitvale School District and Kern High School District
Safety: Low crime, ranks in 46th percentile
Perks: Close to Kern River Golf Course, River Walk, and major employers in logistics, oil, and agriculture
Why it’s special: Small-town feel with top schools and quick access to Bakersfield jobs
Bottom Line:
Bakersfield’s suburbs offer space, affordability, and lifestyle variety.
Whether you want a peaceful retreat or a family-focused neighborhood with great schools, these suburbs deliver California living without the LA price tag.
Other California Resources
Your Complete Guide to Moving to Bakersfield, CA
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in California
Your Guide to Closing Costs in California
How to Build a House in California
Best Tiny Home Builders in California
The Top 10 Most Affordable Cities in California
10 Healthiest Cities in California
The 10 Best Places to Live in California
Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.