Cost of Living in Turlock, CA

With a cost of living index of 119, Turlock, CA is a notably expensive place to live. Living here is 19% more expensive than the national average and 25% below the California state average of 144. With a population of 72,400, Turlock is a mid-sized community that balances access to services with a more manageable cost of living compared to larger metros.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Turlock's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,498 (14% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $443,900 (46% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 5.6x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Turlock is $79,807, which is 6% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 23% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Turlock. The area sees an average annual temperature of 63.1°F, with summers averaging 77°F and winters around 49°F. Annual rainfall totals 12.3 inches spread over roughly 53 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Modesto, CA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced higher than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.