Modesto, CA vs Salinas, CA: Cost of Living Comparison
Modesto has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Modesto | Salinas | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 112 | 142 | Modesto |
| Housing | 119 ($1,126) | 175 ($1,346) | Modesto |
| Transportation | 107 ($3.50) | 102 ($3.50) | Salinas |
| Food & groceries | 104 ($426) | 119 ($488) | Modesto |
| Utilities | 110 ($214) | 138 ($315) | Modesto |
| Healthcare | 110 ($155) | 138 ($228) | Modesto |
| 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 Modesto, CA or Salinas, CA cheaper to live in?
Modesto, CA is cheaper overall by about 30 index points (Modesto, CA: 112, Salinas, CA: 142; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Modesto, CA vs Salinas, CA?
A single adult needs roughly $39,200/year in Modesto, CA and $49,700/year in Salinas, CA to cover basic living costs.