General contractors in Bakersfield by the numbers
Bakersfield is home to 988 licensed general contractors (B, CSLB September 2026) — #6 in California, about 36% of the 2,722 contractor licenses based here.
Nearby in Kern County: Tehachapi (100), Ridgecrest (51), Frazier Park (39), Rosamond (26).
38% of Bakersfield's B licensees hold more than one classification — most often A General Engineering Contractor (10%), C-10 Electrical Contractor (8%). Extra classifications can change how carriers rate your general liability and workers' comp, so list every license class when you quote.
Business structure: 48% sole owners, 45% corporations, 5% LLCs; median time licensed 16.4 years.
What carriers look at
For general contractors, underwriters focus first on: contract requirements: additional insured, waiver of subrogation, primary and non-contributory; and builder's risk on projects under construction. See the full coverage guide for general contractors for limits, endorsements and workers' comp rules.
Get a quote
Asena Capital Insurance Services compares multiple markets for Bakersfield contractors and requests additional insured endorsements for you when a contract calls for them. Call (858) 925-9555 or request a quote — only your name, phone and email are required. CA License #6008596.
Frequently asked questions
How many licensed general contractors are in Bakersfield?
988 active B licenses have a business address in Bakersfield (CSLB, September 2026); 37% carry workers' comp and 57% are filed exempt.
What do project owners usually require from a B contractor?
Commonly general liability with additional insured status for the owner, primary and non-contributory wording, waiver of subrogation, workers' comp and auto. Larger projects may add umbrella limits or builder's risk.