Madera, CA vs Modesto, CA: Cost of Living Comparison
Madera has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Madera | Modesto | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 98 | 112 | Madera |
| Housing | 96 ($866) | 119 ($1,126) | Madera |
| Transportation | 116 ($3.50) | 107 ($3.50) | Modesto |
| Food & groceries | 85 ($349) | 104 ($426) | Madera |
| Utilities | 98 ($173) | 110 ($214) | Madera |
| Healthcare | 98 ($125) | 110 ($155) | Madera |
| Median annual wage | 120 ($58,240) | 120 ($58,240) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Madera, CA or Modesto, CA cheaper to live in?
Madera, CA is cheaper overall by about 14 index points (Madera, CA: 98, Modesto, CA: 112; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Madera, CA vs Modesto, CA?
A single adult needs roughly $34,300/year in Madera, CA and $39,200/year in Modesto, CA to cover basic living costs.