Cost of Living in Wasco, CA

With a cost of living index of 87, Wasco, CA is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 13% cheaper than the national average and 57% below the California state average of 144. With a population of 26,222, Wasco is a mid-sized community that balances access to services with a more manageable cost of living compared to larger metros.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Wasco's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $991 (25% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $251,900 (17% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.5x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Wasco is $55,521, which is 26% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 21% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Wasco. 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.