Local Information for Bakersfield, CA

Near the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley in the state of California are the 8,161.42 square mile Kern County and its county seat, Bakersfield. As of the 2012 estimates, the city of Bakersfield had a population of over 350 thousand residents, bringing Kern County’s total population to more than 830 thousand.  By value, Kern County is one of the most productive agricultural counties in the US, and is also among the most productive when it comes to oil production. These industries have essentially made the economy of Bakersfield rather diverse.  Living in the city of Bakersfield can open up quite a few opportunities when it comes to jobs and careers due to the thriving economy of the region. Housing opportunities in the city and in Kern County, in general, do not fall short as well, as there are several housing programs available for working-class low income families and even farm workers.

Affordable Housing in Bakersfield, CA

The Housing Authority of the County of Kern is the main agency that serves all the residents of Kern County, including Bakersfield. So instead of having a Bakersfield housing authority to oversee all housing and rental assistance programs, the Kern County Housing Authority assumes the responsibility within the region.  Among the affordable housing programs administered by the housing authority of Kern County are the low income public housing, farm worker housing, senior housing, and housing for the homeless programs. The Low Income Public Housing (LIPH) is a federally funded program, while the Farm Worker Housing Program is subsidized by the US Department of Agriculture – Rural Development.

Rental Assistance in Bakersfield, CA

One of the most highly efficient rental assistance programs administered by the Kern County housing authority is the Section 8 Voucher Program, otherwise known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV). Section 8 is a rent subsidy program that allows residents to acquire modest housing in the private sector.There are many rental housing deals available in Bakersfield and the rest of Kern County. From single occupancy lofts to family condos, all you’ll need to do is check prices, compare amenities, view photos and explore floor plans. Of course, if you want rent assistance from the housing authority, you need to qualify for the voucher program first.