Modesto, CA vs Redwood City, CA

The cost of living difference between Modesto, CA and Redwood City, CA is dramatic. Modesto is 57.5% cheaper than Redwood City, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Modesto has a cost index of 120 while Redwood City sits at 282, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month compared to $2,959/month in Redwood City — a 46% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Modesto is more affordable at $415,600 median vs $1,838,800.

Median household income in Modesto is $77,899 compared to $150,840 in Redwood City (-48.4%). The higher salaries in Redwood City 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 23.5% in Redwood City.

Climate-wise, Modesto is notably warmer with an average of 63.1°F compared to 58.7°F in Redwood City. Redwood City receives more rainfall at 19.6" per year compared to 12.3" in Modesto.