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Cost of Living in Modesto

Is it better to rent or buy in Modesto? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$84,562
$1,679/mo

Median in area: $1,679

$454,104

Median in area: $454,104

$90,821

If you Rent

🔑
$1,884 /mo
Base Rent$1,679
Est. Utilities$205
% of Income26.7%
Pre-tax Residual$5,163

If you Buy

🏠
$2,853 /mo
P&I (6.5%)$2,296
Taxes & Ins$352
Est. Utilities$205
% of Income40.5%
Pre-tax Residual$4,194

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Modesto?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Modesto. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,884, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $2,853 per month (a difference of $969).

How much do utilities cost in Modesto?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Modesto is approximately $205. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Modesto?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Modesto without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $75,360 per year.