Transportation in Taft City

Taft, Kern County, CA, relies heavily on personal vehicles for commuting, with about 91% of residents driving alone and less than 1% using public transit, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Average commute times are approximately 22 minutes, below California’s average. The city’s transportation infrastructure centers on State Routes 33 and 119, serving as main arteries. Vehicle ownership is high, with over 95% of households having at least one car. Major employment hubs include the oil and energy sector, education, and healthcare, with many working locally or commuting to Bakersfield and nearby areas.

Taft City Healthcare

Taft, Kern County, CA, primarily relies on the Taft District Hospital (35 beds) and several community clinics for healthcare. Access is limited; the patient-to-primary care physician ratio is 3,030:1, higher than California’s average (1,250:1). Taft’s population is 69% White and 33% Hispanic/Latino, with approximately 11% uninsured (vs. 7% CA average). Common health issues include diabetes (10% prevalence) and respiratory illnesses due to air quality. Medicaid (Medi-Cal) covers about 34% of residents. Provider shortages and transportation barriers impact healthcare access, especially for low-income and elderly populations.

Education in Taft City

Taft, located in Kern County, CA, is served primarily by the Taft City School District and Taft Union High School District. The city has around 8 public schools, including Taft Union High School, which had a graduation rate of 90% in 2023. Roughly 12% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ratings are average, with a score of 6/10 on niche.com. The city offers adult education through the Taft College, known for strong vocational programs. Educational opportunities include Advanced Placement courses and Career Technical Education pathways.

Taft City Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Taft, located in Kern County, California, had a population of approximately 8,546. The median age is about 33 years. The gender split is roughly 51% male to 49% female. Racially, Taft is 60% White, 4% African American, 2% Native American, 2% Asian, and 23% from other races, with 44% identifying as Hispanic or Latino.

Taft City Housing

Taft, located in Kern County, CA, has a homeownership rate of about 56%, with a median home value around $180,000 as of 2023. Rental rates average $950/month for a 2-bedroom. Housing consists mainly of single-family homes and some apartments, with neighborhoods like Ford City and South Taft offering affordable options. Property values have risen roughly 5% year-over-year. Property tax rates are approximately 1.1% of assessed value. Taft’s market is considered affordable compared to the California average, attracting both homeowners and renters seeking budget-friendly living.

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