Bakersfield, Calif. was settled in 1858 by families who traveled through the El Tejon Pass looking for a new home. Colonel Thomas Baker, the man who founded Bakersfield and for whom the town is named, let weary travelers spend the night in his settlement. Bakersfield adopted the council-manager form of government in 1915 and was one of the first states to do so. Now, the city is the county seat of Kern County and the ninth largest city in the state.

You'll have no trouble at all finding Bakersfield apartments for rent in this diverse, Southern California metropolitan city located perfectly in between Fresno and the bright lights of Los Angeles.

Home to more than 340,000 residents, Bakersfield has a desert climate with hot summers and very little rainfall. The good thing about the weather in Bakersfield is the opportunity to miss out on the treacherous winters in the Rocky Mountains and eastern side of the country. If you're searching to escape the heat or enjoy a day surrounded by nature, take a trip to Sequoia National Forest for activities like hiking, whitewater rafting and fishing.

When searching for Bakersfield apartments for rent, consider popular neighborhoods like Cherokee Strip, Lonsmith, Gosford or Oil Junction.

Residents in Bakersfield enjoy a lower cost of living compared to the rest of California and near the national cost of living average. The median price tag for Bakersfield apartments for rent is significantly less than the California median rent. If you'll be driving around the city searching for Bakersfield apartments, you can expect to pay between $3.80 and $4.30 for a gallon of gas.

The Housing Authority of Kern County can assist Bakersfield residents who are searching for low income Bakersfield apartments. Nonprofits in the city can also qualify for the Bakersfield Californian Foundation who works to give back to the community and residents in Bakersfield.

Searching for a place to enlighten your brain and pursue higher education? Consider the 375-acre campus of California State University, Bakersfield, or at least make time for a visit while checking out Bakersfield apartments. You can also find diversity at Bakersfield Community College, part of the California Community College System. Take the opportunity to choose from almost 200 degree, certificate or other programs at the community college. According to the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce, the Edwards Air Force Base is the largest employer for residents of Bakersfield. The County of Kern and Grimmway Farms are other top employers for residents.