Modesto, CA vs San Jose, CA: Cost of Living Comparison
Modesto has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Modesto | San Jose | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 112 | 238 | Modesto |
| Housing | 119 ($1,126) | 341 ($1,832) | Modesto |
| Transportation | 107 ($3.50) | 102 ($3.50) | San Jose |
| Food & groceries | 104 ($426) | 190 ($779) | Modesto |
| Utilities | 110 ($214) | 221 ($614) | Modesto |
| Healthcare | 110 ($155) | 221 ($443) | 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 San Jose, CA cheaper to live in?
Modesto, CA is cheaper overall by about 126 index points (Modesto, CA: 112, San Jose, CA: 238; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Modesto, CA vs San Jose, CA?
A single adult needs roughly $39,200/year in Modesto, CA and $83,300/year in San Jose, CA to cover basic living costs.