Located near the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley and the Central Valley region is the ninth most populous city in California. We’re talking about Bakersfield, and more than 464,000 residents call it home.
The first settlers were attracted to the area because of the discovery of gold at the bottom of the Kern River.
When a large number of people began to settle in the valley, Colonel Thomas Baker was tasked with laying out the plans for all of the residents. After looking at the alfalfa field in his backyard, he decided to name the city Bakersfield.
When the gold became harder to find, Bakersfield still continued to grow as it was a great place to live. Today it has much to offer residents, and if you’re looking to call this city home, here are some things you may want to know:
The median age of residents is 30.6 years, which is lower than the state’s median age of 36.2 years. Over 79 percent hold a high school degree or higher, and the median income is $61,039.
If you are looking for a job, the city is home to hundreds of employers. They include:
- Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
- Bank of America
- University of Phoenix
- Superior Grocers
- State Farm
- General Electric
- Granite Construction
- Black Angus Steakhouse
Bakersfield offers a variety of neighborhoods, and when compared to other areas in California, the home prices are generally reasonable. Neighborhoods include:
City in the Hills – Featuring picturesque mountain views, this planned community is perfect for those who want rural living with easy access to good amenities. Within the neighborhood, you will find a theater, ballroom, spa, tennis courts, and a swimming pool.
Seven Oaks – This master-planned community offers tree-lined streets and beautiful landscaping. At the center of the neighborhood is the Seven Oaks Country Club that boasts a pool, golf course, tennis courts, and restaurants.
College Heights – College Heights is appropriately named as Bakersfield College is nearby. Homes date back to the 1950s, and residents often enjoy activities and events hosted by the school.
Bakersfield City School District – The district’s website states that its vision is to be a leader in public education through a collaborative and supportive learning community that ensures all students are inspired to achieve academic excellence and become life-long learners and productive citizens. The district educates thousands of students, and consists of thirty-five elementary schools and ten middle schools. Students in grades 9-12 attend the Kern High School District that enrolls more than 35,000 students and features eighteen comprehensive campuses, three career technical education sites, and one adult education center.
California State University, Bakersfield – Established in 1965, California State University, Bakersfield is a comprehensive public university that offers a variety of undergraduate majors and programs. They include Anthropology, Kinesiology, and Political Science. Students can participate in sports or join student organizations to enhance their college experience.
Residents enjoy the city’s many restaurants, and two you won’t want to miss include:
Boss Pizza – Located downtown, Boss Pizza displays the toppings out in the open to allow diners to experience the custom crafting process first hand. Signature pizzas include Jack of Hearts, Jalapeno Popper, and Greenhouse.
Frugatti’s Italian Eatery – Frugatti’s is where you will find the best Italian dining experience in Bakersfield as the cooks use the freshest ingredients and authentic equipment such as a wood-burning oven from Milan. In a laid-back atmosphere, you can enjoy friendly service and meals such as Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine, Chicken Parmesan, and Tortellini Alfredo.