Moving to (or Back to) Kern County? The Ultimate Local Guide

Thinking about relocating to Bakersfield, Tehachapi, or somewhere else in Kern County?

Whether you’re moving here for the first time or considering making your way back, this guide breaks down the different areas, neighborhoods, and lifestyles so you can figure out what actually fits you best.

I grew up in Bakersfield, left for a few years, and eventually came back with a completely different perspective on what actually matters in a place to live.

If you’re looking for more space, less friction, and a practical California lifestyle, Kern County is worth a serious look.

Why People Are Moving to (or Back to) Kern County

For many people, the appeal is simple:

• More house for your money
• Easier day-to-day living
• Closer proximity to family
• Less traffic and shorter commutes
• Access to mountains, coast, and weekend trips

Kern County isn’t for everyone.

But for the right person, it makes a lot of sense.

Best Areas in Kern County by Lifestyle

Southwest Bakersfield

Best for: Newer homes, families, convenience

Southwest Bakersfield is one of the most popular areas for buyers looking for newer communities, suburban convenience, and easy access to shopping, dining, and schools.

You’ll probably like it here if:

• You want newer construction
• You prefer suburban neighborhoods
• Convenience matters to you

Northwest Bakersfield

Best for: Established suburban living

Northwest Bakersfield offers a strong balance of convenience, amenities, and established neighborhoods.

Good fit if you:

• Want a practical, balanced location
• Like suburban neighborhoods
• Need access to shopping and schools

Oildale

Best for: Affordability, first-time buyers, investors

Oildale is often one of the most affordable areas in Bakersfield, with older homes and more varied neighborhood character.

Good fit if you:

• Prioritize affordability
• You’re open to areas with more variety and character
• You’re looking for smaller starter homes or renovated flip opportunities

Northeast Bakersfield

Best for: Established neighborhoods and foothill proximity

Northeast Bakersfield tends to feel more established and residential, with access to outdoor recreation and mature neighborhoods.

Southeast Bakersfield

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, established communities, cultural roots

Southeast Bakersfield offers affordability and accessibility for buyers prioritizing value, while also offering a strong sense of community, local culture, and established neighborhoods that feel deeply connected to Bakersfield’s history and identity.

Shafter / Wasco

Best for: Small-town feel + affordability

If you want a quieter, smaller-town environment while staying relatively close to Bakersfield, Shafter and Wasco are worth considering.

Delano / McFarland

Best for: Value-focused buyers

North county communities like Delano and McFarland can offer lower entry points for buyers prioritizing affordability. These areas are deeply connected to Kern County’s agricultural roots and tend to appeal to buyers looking for practicality, familiarity, and neighborhoods with an established sense of community.

Tehachapi

Best for: Mountain lifestyle, cooler weather, land

Tehachapi offers a completely different pace and feel than Bakersfield.

Think:

• mountain views
• cooler climate
• outdoor recreation
• slower pace

Great fit if you want:

• More land
• Slower pace
• Mountain lifestyle

So… Is Kern County Right for You?

Kern County tends to work well for people prioritizing:

• practicality
• affordability
• space
• family proximity
• less day-to-day friction

If you’re looking for dense urban living or a highly walkable city lifestyle, it may not be the right fit.

But if you’re looking for a place that simply makes life easier, it’s worth considering.

Whether you’re moving here for the first time or finding your way back, I hope this guide gave you a clearer picture of what Kern County has to offer.