salaryModesto is 7% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in San Diego to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,988
$3,011
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,761
$2,589
💵 Families earn per year
$86,162
$116,561
🔑 Buying a house
$442,700
$906,700
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
104.1
111.9
🏛️ Property tax per year
$2,835
$5,945
⚡ Electric bill per month
$166
$131
👥 People living there
219,215
1,389,526
Commute to work
30.2 min
23.5 min
College degree
21.2%
51%
Own their home
58.9%
47.3%
Below poverty line
13.3%
11%
Unemployment
7.2%
6%
Bottom line
- Pick Modesto for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes.
- Pick San Diego for higher incomes, shorter commutes, a more educated workforce and 2 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Modesto | San Diego | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developer | $119,770 | $163,270 | +36% in San Diego |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $99,760 | $119,090 | +19% in San Diego |
| HVAC Technician | $64,760 | $74,880 | +16% in San Diego |
| Accountant | $83,560 | $96,340 | +15% in San Diego |
| Operations Manager | $104,330 | $119,600 | +15% in San Diego |
| Plumber | $63,280 | $72,510 | +15% in San Diego |
| Police Officer | $98,230 | $110,400 | +12% in San Diego |
| Market Research Analyst | $71,600 | $79,440 | +11% in San Diego |
Frequently asked questions
Is Modesto or San Diego cheaper to live in?
Modesto is about 7% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,988 a month there versus $3,011 in San Diego.
What salary do I need in San Diego to match $60,000 in Modesto?
About $64,483 a year gives the same standard of living in San Diego.
Where do people earn more, Modesto or San Diego?
The typical household earns $86,162 in Modesto and $116,561 in San Diego, 26% more in San Diego.