Bakersfield, California is the seat of Kern County, and ideally situated on the Kern River in the San Joaquin Valley. Bakersfield has historically been a low-key town. But that is certainly changing. The Bakersfield of today is an emerging leader of industry as well as becoming a respected center for arts and entertainment. But through the changes, Bakersfield remains full of friendly, down-to-earth residents who are known for their hospitality. And there is plenty of outdoor recreation, water sports, museums, golf, and spectacular dining for locals to sample in their free time.

Bakersfield currently supports a population of approximately 275,000 residents, which is a population increase of some twelve percent since the year 2000. The average age of a Bakersfield resident is 30 years old, with an annual household income of nearly $43,000 per year. With all of the changes taking place in this city, the retail trade has emerged as the region's largest employment sector, with over eleven percent of Bakersfield residents working in this sector. Manufacturing takes second place, employing just over five percent. The sectors of finance and insurance and professional services, the sciences and technology vie for third place, each employing just over four percent of locals.

With its expanding population, Bakersfield has begun to attract a wide array of artists in residence, galleries and museums. Many grassroots arts organizations and cultural groups have also emerged. The fine arts are represented by the newly remodeled Bakersfield Museum of Art in the downtown city-center. This building is not only home to several permanent and traveling exhibits, but has become an architecturally significant focal point for downtown. Several galleries throughout town also promote both local and nationally-renowned artists and their creations.

Music lovers also have much to choose from in Bakersfield. In fact, Bakersfield is credited with spawning such diverse musical acts as country music legends Merle Haggard and Buck Owens to the alternative band Korn. Buck Owens still keeps his home in Bakersfield and has erected the Buck Owens' Crystal Palace Steakhouse, a family-oriented dining and entertainment venue where he still regularly performs.

The Bakersfield Community Concert Association prides itself on bringing emerging talent to the notice of residents. Their efforts date back to 1920, when prominent businessmen dedicated funds to the city's cultural development. Today, this group is the largest of its kind in the West, and offers a varied musical series throughout the year.

Of course, the proximity of the Kern River offers locals the chance to take to the water for some of the best white water rafting in the region. The less adventurous can stroll, bicycle or rollerblade along the Kern River Parkway, which runs for nearly twenty miles along the gushing river. In the spring and summer months, the gently rolling hills around the river transform with a wash of color as the wildflowers bloom. This natural transformation brings both locals and visitors alike to witness the changes.

Bakersfield is a warm, welcoming community that continues to draw new residents here. Both the town and its residents are diverse, and there are plenty of recreational opportunities, fairs, festivals, and events to cater to all. If you are thinking about moving, consider a move to Bakersfield, California! To learn more, request our free relocation packet today.