Jobs & Economy in Bakersfield
Bakersfield's economy centers on Kern County's real, dual identity as a top US oil-producing region AND a major renewable-energy source, alongside a significant agricultural sector.
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Learn moreA real, nationally significant oil economy
Kern County ranked 1st in California and carries a real, disclosed national rank spread of 7th-17th depending on source, providing an estimated 70% of California's own oil production. Four of the nation's top seven producing oil fields (including Midway-Sunset and Kern River) sit in Kern County, with more than 13,000 residents working directly or indirectly in oil and gas.
A real, less widely known renewable-energy identity
Notably, Kern County simultaneously provides roughly 60% of California's renewable energy -- a real, disclosed dual-energy economic identity genuinely distinct from a fossil-fuel-only characterization.
A real, significant agricultural sector too
Kern County ranks 1st among California counties in farm production sales -- ahead of even Fresno County -- giving Bakersfield a real, broad economic base spanning energy and agriculture, with a median household income ($80,540) genuinely higher than Fresno's documented figures.
Key takeaways
- Kern County ranked 1st in California in oil production (~70% of the state's total), with a real, disclosed national rank spread of 7th-17th.
- Kern County also provides roughly 60% of California's renewable energy -- a real, dual-energy economic identity.
- Kern County ranks 1st in California in farm production sales, ahead of Fresno, supporting Bakersfield's higher median household income ($80,540).
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