Cost of Living in Fairfax, CA

With a cost of living index of 100, Fairfax, CA is right around the national average in cost. Living here is 0% cheaper than the national average and 44% below the California state average of 144. Fairfax is a small community of 1,654 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Fairfax's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,359 (3% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $277,800 (9% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 5.5x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Fairfax is $50,326, which is 33% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 32% of household income on rent. This exceeds the recommended 30% threshold, meaning many renters here are cost-burdened.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Fairfax. The area sees an average annual temperature of 66.2°F, with summers averaging 82°F and winters around 51°F. Annual rainfall totals 6.4 inches spread over roughly 38 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Bakersfield-Delano, CA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced higher than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.