Just 18 miles from downtown Bakersfield, Shafter is a small city on the cusp of never-ending farmland. The small-town lifestyle is apparent in the close-knit community, yet this city keeps growing. “Shafter and Bakersfield are closer to each other than people think. With the recent growth in both cities, their borders practically touch. However, Shafter is more of a small town surrounded by farmland, and you can typically get a bit more bang for your buck,” says Autumn Mitchell, Realtor with Scott Tobias Real Estate, a born and raised Kern County local. “The city is also home to numerous industrial sectors, such as the Target distribution center, providing jobs throughout the entire region, with residents commuting to work from Taft, Lamont and Bakersfield,” Mitchell says.
Spanish-style ranch homes and small bungalows
Shafter consists of the small city along Central Valley Highway and the overarching region, dotted with new subdivisions. The landscape blends old and new, composed of small, one-story bungalows and new subdivisions full of iconic California ranch-style houses with two-car garages and the occasional private inground pool. The average home price hovers around $325,000, ranging from a small blue bungalow for $260,000 in the heart of town to a four-bedroom modern ranch with hardwood floors for $530,000.
A well-maintained bungalow-style home in Shafter.
A series of Spanish-style homes in Shafter.
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Advanced Placement at Shafter High
The Richland Union Elementary School District and Kern High School District serve the community. Students attend Sequoia Elementary School and Richland Junior High School, scoring a C-minus on Niche. Students then move on to Shafter High School, boasting a B-minus rating on Niche. Shafter High also offers Advanced Placement courses and a range of athletic programs, such as the swimming and soccer teams.
The student population of Richland Junior High is 675 and the school serves 7-8.
The AP participation rate at Shafter High School is 25%.
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Afternoon escapes in the park
Shafter is home to multiple small parks, such as the Shafter Skate Park along East Ash Avenue, where teenagers can practice their kickflip. Spanning about 14.5 acres, Veterans Park is one of the largest city parks, featuring a colorful playground and splash pad packed with kids in the summer. Mannel Park has a playground, volleyball court and outdoor fitness station in the heart of town. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy the miles of hiking trails in Sequoia National Forest, about 33 miles away or head to Iron Valley Fitness on a rainy day.
People on the fitness equipment at Mannel Park in Shafter.
A family strolls through the playground at Mannel Park in Shafter.
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Local businesses along Central Valley Highway
Although Shafter may be small, the city still has multiple restaurants and shops for everyday needs. Locals can head to the Apple Market for fresh produce and groceries, while Shafter True Value is a small hardware store for home improvement needs. For a bite to eat, Giovanni’s Italian Eatery is a local favor for a large bowl of pasta, while El Michoacano offers a range of authentic Mexican specialties. The Tin Cup Coffee also stands out, serving crafted lattes and breakfast sandwiches in a laidback atmosphere.
A hearty spaghetti and meatball lunch served at Giovanni's Italian Eatery in Shafter.
Tin Cup Coffee, in Shafter, partners with Covenant Coffee a local roaster in Bakersfield.
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Exhibits at the Shafter Depot Museum
What once served as the city of Shafter’s gateway to the world, the Santa Fe Railway opened the Shafter Depot in 1917. Hundreds of travelers and mail passed through its doors before closing in 1978. The Depot is still open today as a museum showcasing the city’s past. The museum is also the host of various community events throughout the year, such as Christmas at the Depot, where multiple themed Christmas trees from local families and organizations are displayed.
Commutes around town
California State Route 43 runs straight through the city, converging into Santa Fe Way eastbound, leading residents in the City of Bakersfield just 18 miles away. A few bus stops are located on East Lerdo Highway and James Street for those relying on public transportation, while Minter Field Airport is nearby for small, individual aircrafts. Ongoing development of a high-speed rail line is also in effect, connecting Bakersfield to Merced, 171 miles away.
Important to Know
Bakersfield has severe air pollution because of its location and proximity to nearby oil rigs, highways, railroads, and farms. This leads to a concentrated area of poor air quality, ranked among the worst in the country by the American Lung Association.
Diane is dedicated to helping her clients understand the details and importance of their decision. She prioritizes her client's best interest over making a sale and is always ready to respond to their needs. That's why a big part of her business comes from referrals and repeat customers; she believes real estate is all about trust. For clients looking to relocate or enter the real estate market from afar, Diane's experience as a Relocation director for other companies is a valuable resource. She is also a Certified Relocation Professional (CRP).
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
