Modesto, CA vs Redding, CA

Redding is moderately more affordable than Modesto, with a 12.9% lower cost of living index. Modesto scores 120 compared to 106 for Redding, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Modesto can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month compared to $1,323/month in Redding — a 22% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Redding is more affordable at $363,800 median vs $415,600.

Median household income in Modesto is $77,899 compared to $69,443 in Redding (+12.2%). The higher salaries in Modesto 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 22.9% in Redding.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (63.1°F vs 63.4°F). Redding receives more rainfall at 33.5" per year compared to 12.3" in Modesto.