Our comparison between Columbus, OH, and Bakersfield, CA, takes into account multiple factors relevant to those looking to relocate or visit. These factors include crime and safety, weather, cost of living, education, and many others. The objective is to offer comprehensive insights based on realities in these regions, aiding in informed decisions for prospective residents and travelers alike.
Distance between
Columbus, OH and
Bakersfield, CA : 1,982.9 miles
Columbus's population is larger by 122%. Its population has grown by 195,058 people (27.4%) since 2000. The population of Bakersfield has grown by 160,558 people (65.0%) during that time.
Columbus, OH, exhibits higher crime rates than Bakersfield, CA, the impact of which is felt by residents and visitors. For example, Columbus's crime rate is more than 50% above the US average. On the contrary, Bakersfield exhibits slightly less risk, with crime rates about 44% higher than the average. However, both cities have numerous safe neighborhoods worth exploring or setting a home.
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
Sex Offenders
According to our data, there are 1,506 registered sex offenders living in Columbus and 1,108 registered sex offenders living in . The ratio of residents to sex offenders in Columbus is 573 to 1; the ratio in Bakersfield is 340 to 1. The number of registered sex offenders compared to the number of residents is a smaller in Columbus than in Bakersfield.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Bakersfield is markedly higher than Columbus, largely due to the cost of housing. Goods and services, transportation, and healthcare costs also tend to be higher in Bakersfield. However, Columbus offers a much more affordable lifestyle, with lower housing costs and overall living expenses making it attractive to those on a tighter budget.
Income Tax
Ohio, and hence Columbus, has a progressive income tax, with rates ranging from 0 to 4.797% depending on income level. On the other hand, California’s tax rates are among the highest in the nation, with Bakersfield residents paying state tax rates between 1% to 13.3%.
Property Tax
Property tax rates are lower in Columbus, with an average rate of around 2.15%, while Bakersfield has a typical rate of about 1.12%. These differences significantly impact housing costs in both cities.
Sales Tax
The total sales tax rate in Columbus is 7.5%, including both state and city taxes. Bakersfield, on the other hand, has a higher total sales tax rate of 7.25%.
Income
Type
Columbus
Bakersfield
Estimated median household income
$58,202
$66,666
Estimated per capita income
$32,392
$29,363
Cost of living index (U.S. average is 100)
96.1
92.6
If you make $50,000 in Bakersfield, you will have to make $51,890 in Columbus to maintain the same standard of living.
Geographical Conditions
Columbus, situated in Ohio's heartland, is relatively flat, with a few small rivers and tributaries adding to the landscape. Bakersfield, located in California's Central Valley, is surrounded by mountain ranges and is closer to nature with opportunities for outdoor recreational activities.
Both cities take pride in their educational infrastructures. Columbus is home to Ohio State University, which attracts students from around the world. Additionally, there are excellent public and private schools for families with children. Bakersfield also boasts strong education systems with reputable schools and colleges including California State University, Bakersfield.
Work prospects and the state of the economy vary between the two cities. Columbus boasts a robust economy with a low unemployment rate. Major sectors include education, healthcare, and government. Conversely, Bakersfield's economy is rooted in industries like oil and agriculture. However, both cities face significant economic disparities, with high poverty rates.
Biggest Employers
In Columbus, the biggest employers are Ohio State University, the federal and state governments, and Nationwide Insurance. Meanwhile, in Bakersfield, the largest employers include Giumarra Companies (agriculture), Chevron (energy), and Bakersfield Memorial Hospital (healthcare).
There were 913 building permits issued in Columbus in 2012 (246 more than in 2011) compared to 1,121 building permits issued in Bakersfield in 2012 (699 more than in 2011).
In Columbus (Franklin County), 60.8% voted for Democrats and 37.9% for Republicans in 2012 Presidential Election. In Bakersfield (Kern County), 40.3% voted for Democrats and 57.0% for Republicans.
Elections
Type
Democrats
Republicans
Other
Year
Columbus
Bakersfield
Columbus
Bakersfield
Columbus
Bakersfield
2020
64.7%
43.7%
33.4%
53.9%
1.9%
2.4%
2016
59.8%
40.4%
33.9%
53.1%
6.2%
6.5%
2012
60.8%
40.3%
37.9%
57.0%
1.3%
2.7%
2008
59.8%
40.1%
39.0%
57.9%
1.2%
1.9%
2004
54.5%
32.7%
45.2%
67.0%
0.3%
0.3%
2000
48.9%
36.3%
47.9%
60.8%
3.2%
2.9%
1996
48.1%
36.6%
44.5%
53.8%
7.3%
9.7%
Breakdown of population affiliated with a religious congregation
Type
Adherents
Congregations
Religion
Columbus
Bakersfield
Columbus
Bakersfield
CATHOLIC CHURCH
13.2%
29.3%
5.6%
4.9%
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
1.6%
0.0%
3.7%
0.3%
SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION
1.6%
3.2%
6.8%
12.0%
MUSLIM ESTIMATE
1.3%
0.5%
1.9%
0.7%
VINEYARD USA
1.3%
0.0%
1.2%
0.3%
AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCHES IN THE USA
1.0%
0.3%
3.3%
1.3%
EPISCOPAL CHURCH
0.4%
0.0%
1.3%
0.7%
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
0.4%
0.6%
2.0%
2.9%
LUTHERAN CHURCH
0.2%
0.4%
1.0%
2.0%
Weather
As for weather, Columbus experiences a typically Midwestern climate with four distinct seasons, including cold, snowy winters and humid summers. However, Bakersfield, located in California's Central Valley, experiences a semi-arid climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it more appealing for those who enjoy warm weather.
Weather and climate
Type
Columbus
Bakersfield
Temperature - Average
52.8°F
64.9°F
Humidity - Average morning or afternoon humidity
74.8%
53.5%
Humidity - Differences between morning and afternoon humidity
34%
59%
Humidity - Maximum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
86%
80%
Humidity - Minimum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
52%
21%
Precipitation - Yearly average
39.3 in
6.5 in
Snowfall - Yearly average
56.6 in
0 in
Clouds - Number of days clear of clouds
12%
31.8%
Sunshine amount - Average
49.7%
80.8%
Sunshine amount - Differences during a year
27%
31.1%
Sunshine amount - Maximum monthly
55%
89.5%
Sunshine amount - Minimum monthly
28%
58.4%
Wind speed - Average
8.2 mph
6.8 mph
Average climate in Columbus, Ohio
Average climate in Bakersfield, California
Air pollution
Type
AQI
CO
NO2
OZONE
PB
PM10
PM25
SO2
Year
Columbus
Bakersfield
Columbus
Bakersfield
Columbus
Bakersfield
Columbus
Bakersfield
Bakersfield
Columbus
Bakersfield
Columbus
Bakersfield
Columbus
2018
69
135
0.11
0.28
10.0
12.3
33.8
32.3
0.004
N/A
N/A
53.7
6.0
15.7
0.0
N/A
2017
68
141
0.16
0.29
9.6
12.7
28.7
32.9
0.004
N/A
N/A
68.2
5.5
15.8
0.1
N/A
2016
76
127
0.17
0.27
10.6
11.7
28.5
31.0
0.004
N/A
N/A
N/A
5.6
14.5
0.1
N/A
2015
74
144
0.16
0.29
11.3
11.8
27.0
32.2
0.003
N/A
N/A
N/A
6.1
16.2
0.1
N/A
2014
82
141
0.20
0.28
11.0
13.3
28.5
31.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
53.0
7.4
17.9
0.5
N/A
2013
78
134
N/A
0.30
8.9
14.3
29.6
31.0
0.003
N/A
N/A
N/A
7.8
21.7
0.6
N/A
2012
87
145
N/A
N/A
N/A
14.6
32.9
32.4
0.004
N/A
N/A
N/A
8.9
17.2
N/A
N/A
2011
89
126
N/A
N/A
N/A
15.0
28.1
29.3
0.004
N/A
N/A
43.9
8.9
17.8
N/A
N/A
2010
90
147
N/A
N/A
N/A
14.4
30.5
29.3
0.003
N/A
N/A
39.2
9.1
17.2
N/A
N/A
2009
61
170
N/A
0.37
N/A
16.6
28.7
28.0
0.005
N/A
N/A
41.5
N/A
20.8
N/A
N/A
2008
65
171
N/A
0.48
N/A
17.4
31.2
27.8
N/A
N/A
N/A
57.0
N/A
22.7
1.8
N/A
2007
80
167
N/A
0.55
N/A
18.5
30.8
26.2
0.007
N/A
N/A
43.0
N/A
23.0
2.8
N/A
2006
75
157
N/A
0.56
N/A
19.2
30.0
29.6
N/A
N/A
23.7
N/A
N/A
18.0
3.3
N/A
2005
87
165
N/A
0.53
N/A
19.3
29.6
28.2
N/A
N/A
27.5
N/A
N/A
21.5
4.1
N/A
2004
77
163
N/A
0.51
N/A
19.9
27.8
27.1
N/A
N/A
24.6
N/A
N/A
21.3
4.4
N/A
2003
91
170
N/A
0.56
N/A
21.2
26.4
29.1
N/A
N/A
23.9
N/A
N/A
24.4
4.1
N/A
2002
93
170
N/A
0.60
N/A
22.5
31.3
26.9
0.006
N/A
25.7
N/A
N/A
29.5
4.1
N/A
2001
84
150
N/A
0.73
N/A
18.2
29.2
29.6
0.006
N/A
25.9
39.6
N/A
N/A
3.5
N/A
2000
57
130
N/A
0.77
N/A
23.4
N/A
28.8
0.006
N/A
23.5
39.6
N/A
N/A
3.7
N/A
Natural disasters
Type
Columbus
Bakersfield
Tornado activity compared to U.S. average
119.1%
2.7%
Earthquake activity compared to U.S. average
96.1%
7,870.5%
Natural disasters compared to U.S. average
16%
29%
Transportation
Columbus has a well-functioning public transportation system operated by the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA), making commuting easier. In Bakersfield, Golden Empire Transit (GET) operates bus routes, but many residents prefer using personal vehicles due to the city's expansive layout.
Transport
Type
Columbus
Bakersfield
Amtrak stations
1
1
Amtrak stations nearby
1
1
FAA registered aircraft
415
433
FAA registered aircraft manufacturers and dealers
4
12
Means of transportation to work
Type
Columbus
Bakersfield
Bicycle
0.6%
0.2%
Bus
1.6%
0.3%
Carpooled
7.4%
8.7%
Car alone
86.7%
87.4%
Motorcycle
0%
0.3%
Taxicab
0.1%
0.1%
Walked
2.2%
0.8%
Average travel time to work
Type
Columbus
Bakersfield
Average
26.1 min
21.5 min
Other means
21.7 min
22.2 min
Public transportation
35.4 min
44.6 min
Private vehicle occupancy
Type
Columbus
Bakersfield
Average
1.1
1.2
Drove alone
90.7%
89.3%
In 2 person carpool
7.3%
6.2%
In 3 person carpool
1.4%
2.9%
In 4 person carpool
0.5%
1%
In 5-6 person carpool
0.1%
0.5%
How many people usually rode to work in the car, truck or van.
Real Estate
Real estate is often cheaper in Columbus than in Bakersfield, with more affordable housing options. Whether renting or buying, residents can expect lower prices in Columbus. Despite this, Bakersfield offers a range of housing options catering to different income levels.
Neighborhoods
Columbus has an impressive mix of neighborhoods to suit various lifestyles. From the urban feel of Downtown to the traditional charm of German Village, there's something for everyone. Bakersfield, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed pace of life, with neighborhoods such as Seven Oaks and River Oaks being popular choices for their suburban feel and family-friendly environments.
Houses and residents
Type
Columbus
Bakersfield
Houses
422,120
134,270
Average household size (people)
2.3
3.1
Median year apartment built
1982
1984
Median year house/condo built
1977
1994
Length of stay in the house since moving in
12.6 years
11.8 years
Houses occupied
390,605 (92.5%)
128,007 (95.3%)
Houses occupied by owners
175,427 (44.9%)
78,398 (61.2%)
Houses occupied by renters
215,178 (55.1%)
49,609 (38.8%)
Median rent asked for vacant for-rent units
$1,371
$1,220
Median monthly housing costs
$1,110
$1,384
Median price asked for vacant for-sale houses and condos
$195,022
$366,859
Estimated median house or condo value
$219,200
$318,600
Median numbers of rooms
5
5.2
Median number of rooms in apartments
4.2
4.1
Median number of rooms in houses and condos
6.3
5.9
Median house price - detached houses
$233,452
$371,576
Median house price - in 2-unit structures
$121,729
$254,175
Median house price - in 3-to-4-unit structures
$215,337
$299,855
Median house price - in 5 or more unit structures
$240,711
$221,915
Median house price - mobile homes
$121,578
$92,500
Median house price - Townhouses or other attached units
$218,726
$244,694
Median house price - All housing units
$229,736
$356,236
Median house age
42
32
Renting percentage
53%
40.3%
Housing density (houses/condos per square mile)
2,007.5
1,187.2
House value disparities
30.2%
29.3%
Household income disparities
42.4%
44.3%
Median household income for houses/condes with a mortgage
$89,058
$98,668
Median household income for apartments without a mortgage
$59,295
$60,298
Housing units without a mortgage
4,290 (3.3%)
376 (0.7%)
Housing units with both a second mortgage and home equity loan
10,651 (8.2%)
1,793 (3.1%)
Housing units with a mortgage
125,487 (96.7%)
56,648 (99.3%)
Housing units with a home equity loan
775 (0.6%)
0 (0%)
Housing units with a second mortgage
13,558 (10.4%)
2,474 (4.3%)
House/condo owner moved in on average (years ago)
10
9
House/condo renter moved in on average (years ago)
1
2
Housing units lacking complete kitchen facilities
1.6%
2.1%
Housing units lacking complete plumbing facilities
1.3%
0.2%
Housing units in structures
Housing units in structures
Columbus
Bakersfield
One, detached
45.8%
71.5%
One, attached
9.1%
3.9%
Two
4.0%
1.3%
3 or 4
8.6%
7.8%
5 to 9
11.8%
3.8%
10 to 19
8.6%
2.0%
20 to 49
4.5%
2.2%
50 or more
6.8%
5.1%
Mobile homes
0.8%
2.3%
Boats, RVs, vans, etc.
0.1%
0.0%
Median real estate property taxes paid for housing units
Self-employed workers in own not incorporated business
20,915
11,506
State government workers
31,881
10,997
Unpaid family workers
724
161
Industries and Occupations
Columbus's economy is diversified with a focus on education, government, and healthcare. It's a significant tech hub, boasting a thriving startup scene and attracting tech professionals. Bakersfield's economy is closely tied to sectors like agriculture, oil, and manufacturing. Although the tech scene isn't as active as in Columbus, the city is home to various profitable industries.
Both Columbus and Bakersfield offer solid public health infrastructures. Columbus boasts renowned health facilities such as The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. In contrast, Bakersfield is home to high-quality health establishments like Bakersfield Memorial Hospital.
Columbus and Bakersfield have reliable infrastructures, with both cities constantly upgrading their facilities. Columbus boasts a solid network of highways, public transportation systems, and an international airport that facilitates travel. Bakersfield, on the other hand, is more contained and doesn't offer as extensive a transit system, though its road network is sufficient for getting around the city.
Infrastructure
Type
Columbus
Bakersfield
Hospitals
47
18
TV stations
14
9
Arenas or stadiums
3
1
Bank branches located here
200
65
Bank institutions located here
25
19
Main business address for public companies
23
2
Drinking water stations with no reported violations in the past
17
7
Drinking water stations with reported violations in the past
HMDA - Conventional home purchase loans - Applications denied
Year
Columbus
Bakersfield
1999
2,450
392
2000
2,376
393
2001
1,897
297
2002
1,483
372
2003
2,087
1,104
2004
3,216
2,188
2005
4,275
3,038
2006
4,662
3,393
2007
2,679
2,036
2008
1,015
565
2009
555
289
Culture and Food
Columbus has a vibrant cultural scene with art galleries, museums, theaters, and live music events. It also boasts a diverse food scene, ranging from high-end culinary experiences to cheaper eats. Bakersfield, on the other hand, is known for its rich country music heritage and its unique cuisine blend of Mexican and Basque influences.
Sports Teams
Columbus is home to professional sports teams like the Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL) and Columbus Crew (MLS). Bakersfield is host to minor league teams including the Bakersfield Blaze baseball team and the Bakersfield Condors, an affiliate of the NHL's Edmonton Oilers.
Columbus, OH
Bakersfield, CA
Columbus, OH and 
Bakersfield, CA : 1,982.9 miles
