Modesto, CA vs Richmond, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Modesto is 21.2% cheaper than Richmond. 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 Richmond should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month compared to $1,895/month in Richmond — a 15% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Modesto is more affordable at $415,600 median vs $650,100.

Median household income in Modesto is $77,899 compared to $90,038 in Richmond (-13.5%). The higher salaries in Richmond 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, less than the 25.3% in Richmond.

Climate-wise, Modesto is notably warmer with an average of 63.1°F compared to 57.7°F in Richmond. Richmond receives more rainfall at 22.9" per year compared to 12.3" in Modesto.