Kern City sits in the Bakersfield neighborhood with the same name, found in zip code 93309, where residents aged 55 and older enjoy a close-knit setting with 1,024 homes and condos managed by the Kern City Civic Association, and this place's always shown a real sense of pride and purpose, with people sharing what they know and living interesting lives together, and you'll always see folks walking the well-kept paths or talking softly on their patios lined with flowers and shrubs. The grounds feel open and cared for, and many residents like the big saltwater swimming pool that holds 80,000 gallons, plus there's exercise equipment, a well-stocked library, and spots to relax or work on arts and crafts, or even catch a movie in the small on-site theater. Kern City has its own Community Church right in the Town Hall, where people gather for spiritual services, quilting, cards, or just good conversation, and the Social Club plans community events throughout the year.
Residents can get different levels of care, depending on what's needed: there's help with bathing, dressing, and managing medicines, plus nurses and support staff are around 24 hours a day, including for folks who need memory care or can't move on their own, because Kern City has a secure place for Alzheimer's or dementia where they do daily activities and keep things safe so everyone's comfortable. There are short-term respite stays, rehab, wound care, and skilled nursing if you need them, and you'll find staff who offer personal services and help with setting up appointments or getting around town on provided transportation. Meals come from the dining room with a professional chef, and you'll find choices for special diets, like for diabetes, or allergies, with meals served restaurant-style all day, so people always have what suits them.
Apartments and rooms come private or shared, with bathrooms, Wi-Fi, TV, kitchenettes, air conditioning, and some furniture included, and there are plenty of extra spaces like the fitness room, activity and game rooms, movie theater, spa, and outdoor common areas with walking paths. Laundry, housekeeping, move-in help, and even dry cleaning come with the place, along with a concierge and family support if someone needs it. Independent folks can get help when they want, but enjoy a maintenance-free way of life, and daily events fill the calendar from aqua therapy in the pool to group classes or music sessions run by residents themselves. It's a mid-century style setting, always updating but keeping that old-fashioned sense of community, with programs, funding, grants, and staff overseen by the civic association and Kern City Community Church taking care of spiritual needs. The neighborhood itself is best for those who drive since the Walk Score is 34 and transit or biking are possible but limited, though there are schools and rental apartments nearby for visiting family, and plenty of ways to stay busy, active, and connected in this welcoming community built for retired Americans who want a peaceful, friendly place to call home.
