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Bakersfield vs Chicago

United States vs United States · 2,801 km apart

Bakersfield

United States

$1,328

single / month

Cheaper overall
VS

Chicago

United States

$1,635

single / month

Category Breakdown (USD)

ExpenseBakersfieldChicagoCheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$11.93$14.40Bakersfield
Three-course meal for two, mid-range$47.70$57.60Bakersfield
Cappuccino$3.58$4.32Bakersfield
Monthly groceries (single person)$270$326Bakersfield
Monthly public transport pass$43.73$52.80Bakersfield
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment$115$139Bakersfield
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)$33.39$40.32Bakersfield
Fitness club membership$33.39$40.32Bakersfield
Cinema ticket$8.75$10.56Bakersfield
One-bedroom apartment in city centre$767$971Bakersfield
One-bedroom apartment outside centre$533$675Bakersfield
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre$1,600$2,026Bakersfield
Total single-person budget$1,328$1,635Bakersfield
Average net salary$4,134$4,992

Verdict

Bakersfield is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Bakersfield runs about $1,328 versus $1,635 in Chicago — a difference of roughly 23%.

Salary-adjusted, Chicago leaves more disposable income after basic expenses. Both figures are model estimates — see each city page for local-currency detail.

Full cost of living in Bakersfield  ·  Full cost of living in Chicago

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bakersfield cheaper than Chicago?
Yes. A single person spends an estimated $1,328 per month in Bakersfield versus $1,635 in Chicago — about 23% less.
How far is Bakersfield from Chicago?
The straight-line distance between Bakersfield and Chicago is approximately 2,801 km (1,741 miles).
Which city has better salaries, Bakersfield or Chicago?
The estimated average net salary is $4,134 in Bakersfield and $4,992 in Chicago. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $2,806 in Bakersfield versus $3,357 in Chicago per month.