Get Pricing & Availability for Assisted Living in Bakersfield, CA
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Page Reviewed / Updated – January 10, 2024
Bakersfield offers an affordable lifestyle for seniors looking to retire in the Golden State. While slightly higher than the U.S. average, the overall cost of living in Bakersfield is around 37% less expensive than the California median, especially in terms of housing, health and groceries.
At $5,443 per month, the cost of assisted living in Bakersfield is higher than both the state median ($4,946) and the national average ($4,459). However, the city’s low health care costs may help offset these above-average senior care expenses.
This guide offers more insight into assisted living as a long-term care choice in Bakersfield. It features more details about care costs, a list of local support resources and an overview of the city’s top facilities.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Bakersfield, CA
When determining how to finance Assisted Living, it’s essential to first know the expense involved for your loved one to join a reputable community. With the ongoing increase in costs, having current information is crucial when budgeting for senior care. To help highlight the influence of inflation on senior living expenses, PayingForSeniorCare.com has collected cost data from its extensive network of over 75,000 senior living communities. This data represents the average cost of Assisted Living in Bakersfield and in 200 other cities in California.
Inflation & the Cost of Assisted Living in Bakersfield, CA
Inflation has impacted the nation’s assisted living fees, causing the average monthly rates to increase from $4,070 to $4,459 between 2022 and 2023. During this same time, costs in Bakersfield increased by nearly 10%. This is significant compared to the 7% rise in expenses, on average, across California.
Planning ahead for care is very important, as rates in Bakersfield are projected to increase further to $5,862 in 2024. Other California cities are also poised to see higher rates in 2024, including Los Angeles, San Diego and San Jose, which will likely reach $6,632 and $7,868, respectively.
Location |
2022 Cost (Historical) |
2023 Cost (Current) |
2024 Cost (Estimated) |
Bakersfield |
$4,968 |
$5,443 |
$5,862 |
U.S. Average |
$4,070 |
$4,459 |
$4,802 |
California |
$4,625 |
$4,946 |
$5,221 |
Los Angeles |
$5,621 |
$6,158 |
$6,632 |
San Diego |
$4,088 |
$4,479 |
$4,824 |
San Jose |
$6,669 |
$7,306 |
$7,868 |
The Cost of Other Types of Care in Bakersfield, CA
When making decisions about long-term care, cost is often an important consideration, and rates vary between different types of senior living in Bakersfield. At $3,051 per month, independent living is the least expensive option, as personal care services aren’t typically included. Memory care and assisted living see more similar costs, at $5,315 and $5,443, respectively. While memory care offers more specialized, dementia-focused services, assisted living residents may have access to more amenities and recreational activities.
Care Type |
Cost |
Assisted Living |
$5,443 |
Memory Care |
$5,315 |
Independent Living |
$3,051 |
Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Bakersfield, CA
Other Ways To Pay for Assisted Living in Bakersfield, CA
Since not everyone can afford to pay for assisted living out-of-pocket, it’s important to find alternative methods to help make assisted living more affordable. Some of these options include:
- Veterans Benefits
- Life Insurance Policy
- Long-Term Care Insurance
- Reverse Mortgage
For additional information and planning, read our comprehensive guide to paying for senior care in California.
Free Resources for Seniors in Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield seniors living in or considering moving into an assisted living community have access to a variety of programs to help them save money. Local government agencies and nonprofit organizations offer free resources and financial assistance programs.
Resource |
Contact |
Service |
Area Agency on Aging |
(800) 510-2020 |
The California Department of Aging provides information and a variety of services to seniors 60 years of age and older. Services include access to free legal assistance, help with applying for Medi-Cal (California’s Medicaid program), transportation to and from appointments and access to community-based services. Counselors can evaluate senior care needs and offer available options and referrals. They can also determine eligibility for public benefits that may help pay for long-term care costs. |
Long-Term Care Ombudsman | (800) 231-4024 | The Long-Term Care Ombudsman advocates on behalf of seniors in long-term care facilities to enhance their quality of life. The program helps seniors understand their rights and ensures services are rendered according to their care plans. The ombudsman also reviews and investigates complaints of abuse, neglect or exploitation of seniors in assisted living facilities. |
California Department of Veterans Affairs |
(800) 952-5626 |
The California Department of Veterans Affairs helps veterans access survivor pension programs and benefits, as well as the VA Aid and Attendance program. It can also help them access available state health care benefits and provide advocacy and assistance through the County Veteran Service Offices. |
Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance, Inc. |
(661) 325-5943 |
The Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance, Inc. (GBLA), is a nonprofit legal services agency located in Bakersfield. GBLA provides free legal services to seniors in Kern County. Services include probate and estate planning, care planning and advance directives. |
Rules and Regulations for Assisted Living Facilities in Bakersfield, CA
Assisted Living Communities in Bakersfield are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined by the state. For an overview of those rules and regulations, see the information below. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.