Population Government data
The Bakersfield area's population grew 2.3% from 2020 to 2025 (905,960 → 927,068), ranking #202 of 387 metros for growth (typical metro +2.5%). More people moved out than in (net -1,086).
Census Bureau population estimates, July 1 of each year, 2020–2025.
New homes permitted Government data
New-home permits in Bakersfield are up 38% from 2021 to 2025 (2,293 → 3,159). Permits are a sign of construction activity, not a count of open jobs.
Census Building Permits Survey, annual 2021–2025.
Local housing Government data
The Bakersfield area has about 312,130 homes. 41% were built before 1980 (typical metro 45%), so its housing is newer than most; 12% were built in 2010 or later. 61% of households own their home, and the median home value is $363,600.
Census American Community Survey, 2024 1-year estimates (table DP04).
Highest-paying trades
All 30 trades
Click a column to sort. Jobs are employment estimates, not open positions.
| Trade | Median pay | Jobs | U.S. rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Lineworker | $126,670 | 280 | #28 |
| Telecom Line Installer | $96,600 | 220 | #27 |
| Construction Supervisor | $92,120 | 1,610 | #59 |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $77,960 | 1,000 | #60 |
| Building Inspector | $76,480 | 290 | #86 |
| Electrician | $75,860 | 1,410 | #105 |
| Sheet Metal Worker | $74,690 | 170 | #66 |
| Industrial Machinery Mechanic | $73,680 | 910 | #76 |
| Ironworker | $70,400 | 120 | #67 |
| Telecom Equipment Installer | $69,850 | 110 | #92 |
| Carpenter | $66,540 | 1,100 | #52 |
| Plumber | $66,450 | 960 | #123 |
| HVAC Technician | $66,400 | 680 | #62 |
| Diesel Mechanic | $63,520 | 860 | #95 |
| Auto Mechanic | $62,450 | 1,250 | #19 |
| Auto Body Repairer | $60,640 | 170 | #40 |
| Roofer | $60,640 | 190 | #64 |
| Appliance Repair Technician | $60,040 | 70 | #21 |
| Concrete Finisher | $58,670 | 600 | #146 |
| Painter | $58,540 | 520 | #47 |
| Welder | $57,360 | 800 | #110 |
| Solar Installer | $56,990 | 370 | #24 |
| Construction Laborer | $55,800 | 1,480 | #72 |
| Flooring Installer | $55,690 | 50 | #37 |
| Septic & Sewer Technician | $53,430 | 100 | #57 |
| Maintenance Technician | $50,800 | 2,490 | #122 |
| Machinist | $50,680 | 250 | #276 |
| Hazmat Removal Worker | $50,240 | 150 | #47 |
| Pest Control Technician | $45,260 | 320 | #91 |
| Landscaper | $43,770 | 1,630 | #81 |
Pay: BLS OEWS, May 2025 (metro-level). Real pay: BEA price parities, 2024. How we calculate
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