Cost of Living in Kern County, California
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Kern County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Kern County ranks #3,092 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 2%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Kern County, California
Kern's affordable Southern California
Kern County renters spend 21.6% of income on housing, slightly below California's 22.4% average, while the median household income of $67,660 is closer to the national median than most inland California counties. Kern offers genuine affordability for those seeking Southern California living without coastal price tags.
Middle affordability for California
Kern County ranks in the middle range of California's housing affordability with a 21.6% rent-to-income ratio near the state average of 22.4%. The median home value of $310,600 reflects Kern's position as an affordable gateway to Southern California's economic opportunities.
Kern in the San Joaquin context
Kern's $1,220 median rent and 21.6% ratio place it between Fresno (21.8%, $1,300 rent) and Kings (21.4%, $1,228 rent), making it squarely competitive within the San Joaquin Valley. The $67,660 median income is solid for the region, supporting the area's growing diversified economy.
Kern's housing share
Kern renters pay $1,220 monthly while homeowners face $1,453, with a median home value of $310,600 accessible to the $67,660 median household income. Housing consumes 21.6% of income, leaving 78.4% for other necessities and discretionary spending.
Kern for Southern California access
Kern County offers a smart compromise for those priced out of Los Angeles and San Diego: median homes cost $50,000-$100,000 less than coastal Southern California while incomes remain competitive. If your work ties to the LA metro, Kern's affordability gains combined with reasonable commute times make relocation financially sensible.
Cost of Living Advisory: Kern County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Kern County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,220/month in gross rent, with 33.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Kern County pay $1,220/month on average, compared to $1,453/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 16%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $48,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $62,271/year. With a median household income of $67,660, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 33.0% of renter households in Kern County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Kern County sits 5% more expensive than Tehama County ($1,159/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Kern County
Rent Burden
21.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,579
per month
Owner Cost Burden
25.8%
of gross income
The median home in Kern County may be a stretch
Median home value is $310,600. Estimated monthly cost: $2,480 vs. your max of $1,579.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Kern County, California?
What is the median rent in Kern County?
Is Kern County affordable?
How does Kern County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Kern County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Kern County, California? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Kern County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.