Modesto, CA vs Norwalk, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Modesto is 21.2% cheaper than Norwalk. With a cost index of 120 vs 152, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Modesto to Norwalk should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month compared to $2,014/month in Norwalk — a 20% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Modesto is more affordable at $415,600 median vs $616,600.

Median household income in Modesto is $77,899 compared to $98,709 in Norwalk (-21.1%). The higher salaries in Norwalk partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Modesto spend roughly 24.8% of their income on rent, more than the 24.5% in Norwalk.

Climate-wise, Norwalk is notably warmer with an average of 66.2°F compared to 63.1°F in Modesto. Modesto receives more rainfall at 12.3" per year compared to 11.9" in Norwalk.