With a population of well over 300,000 residents, it's hard to believe that Bakersfield, California is only the eleventh largest city in the state. But, there are many areas where this fine city does not take the backseat to its larger neighbors. Halfway between Los Angeles and Fresno in the southern end of the Joaquin Valley, Bakersfield is the third largest of all of the California cities not along the coast after Fresno and Sacramento. But what makes Bakersfield really great are all the advances it has for those choosing to make their home there. You don't need to be seconds from the beach to live the California dream.

The population of Bakersfield has more than tripled in the last thirty years and BakersfieldZip.com wants to show you why. Whether you're a new California homeowner looking for the perfect city to make your mark or a retiree looking to spend your latter days in the warmth of the California sun, this could be the ideal town for you. The cost of living in Bakersfield is only 93.1 to the national average of 100, making it one of the most affordable cities in the state. Homes here sell at upwards of $300,000 less than they would in a city on the coast.

Those looking for work or an education in Bakersfield will be happy to know that there are excellent options for both within this community. The city is home to Bakersfield College, which currently has an enrollment of about 16,000 students. California State University also has a campus in the city with just under 9,000 students attending. This may account for the low median age living in the city, which is just above thirty years of age.

Retail trade reigns supreme when it comes to business enterprises in the city with nearly a thousand businesses running in the area and over fifteen thousand employees working in this sector. With a total of three hundred businesses in operation, wholesale trade is providing jobs to more than 4,000 residents. Manufacturing is also a large sector and employs more than 3,000 people. Health care and the services sectors also employ a large percentage of the Bakersfield population. This is a great city for those looking for their start in the world and offers a number of entry-level positions.

For those looking at homes in Bakersfield should look at Westchester, Southwest Bakersfield, and Northwest Bakersfield for the most sought after neighborhoods in town. Rio Bravo is also an excellent choice for those looking for a more rural life. But anywhere you choose you are sure to discover for yourself why so many people are flocking inland to the great city of Bakersfield.