Manteca, CA vs Monterey, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Manteca is 25.6% cheaper than Monterey. With a cost index of 142 vs 191, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Manteca to Monterey should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Manteca is $1,934/month compared to $2,288/month in Monterey — a 16% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Manteca is more affordable at $561,200 median vs $1,003,300.

Median household income in Manteca is $94,718 compared to $104,110 in Monterey (-9%). Monterey does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Manteca spend roughly 24.5% of their income on rent, less than the 26.4% in Monterey.

Climate-wise, Manteca is notably warmer with an average of 63°F compared to 57.3°F in Monterey. Monterey receives more rainfall at 16.2" per year compared to 13.5" in Manteca.