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I've lived everywhere from Colorado to NYC and believe me when I say this... Bakersfield is my favorite place I've ever lived.

Some people may be surprised about this comment as Bakersfield doesn't have the best reputation online but those who have lived here know exactly what I'm talking about.

The people in Bakersfield are some of the nicest people I've ever came across. They are friendly and helpful. I am rarely judged here (I am an african-american gay man). You'd think bigger cities would be more open-minded than smaller ones like Bakersfield but I was discriminated against daily in NYC and that is why I left.  Bakersfield is a melting pot of all races. I do not get the reputation for Bakersfield being for red-necks.

The atomosphere here is great. I love the mix of a small-town/big city.  Many people complain about the lack of bars and club life here but I honestly find that refreshing. 

Crime in Bakersfield? Awhile back Bakersfield had a fairly high crime rate but guess what.... Bakersfield no longer has a high crime rate people. I've been here for 6 years now and I've never been robbed, met a gang member, or been shot at. All kidding aside, every city in the US has its bad areas. Bakersfield is no different but the good news is that its extremely easy to aviod such areas. Bakersfield has plenty of wonderful areas that experience very few crimes.

Theres so many things I love about Bakersfield and I couldnt be happier living here. I'm convinced the bad reputation Bakersfield has is either from... 1. High school kids (come on, lets admit it. we all griped about where we lived as teenagers) and 2. Rival towns.

I've lived in over 10 different cities and I can definitely say with all my heart that Bakersfield is my favorite.