Modesto, CA vs Watsonville, CA: Cost of Living Comparison
Modesto has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Modesto | Watsonville | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 112 | 146 | Modesto |
| Housing | 119 ($1,126) | 189 ($1,249) | Modesto |
| Transportation | 107 ($3.50) | 109 ($3.50) | Modesto |
| Food & groceries | 104 ($426) | 100 ($410) | Watsonville |
| Utilities | 110 ($214) | 145 ($340) | Modesto |
| Healthcare | 110 ($155) | 145 ($246) | 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 Watsonville, CA cheaper to live in?
Modesto, CA is cheaper overall by about 34 index points (Modesto, CA: 112, Watsonville, CA: 146; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Modesto, CA vs Watsonville, CA?
A single adult needs roughly $39,200/year in Modesto, CA and $51,100/year in Watsonville, CA to cover basic living costs.