Modesto, CA vs San Marcos, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Modesto is 29.7% cheaper than San Marcos. With a cost index of 120 vs 170, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Modesto to San Marcos should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month compared to $2,191/month in San Marcos — a 27% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Modesto is more affordable at $415,600 median vs $792,400.

Median household income in Modesto is $77,899 compared to $105,286 in San Marcos (-26%). The higher salaries in San Marcos 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% in San Marcos.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (63.1°F vs 62.5°F). Modesto receives more rainfall at 12.3" per year compared to 11.4" in San Marcos.