Modesto, CA vs Vacaville, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Modesto is 22.7% cheaper than Vacaville. With a cost index of 120 vs 155, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Modesto to Vacaville should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month compared to $2,227/month in Vacaville — a 28% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Modesto is more affordable at $415,600 median vs $596,700.

Median household income in Modesto is $77,899 compared to $108,580 in Vacaville (-28.3%). While Vacaville is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Modesto spend roughly 24.8% of their income on rent, more than the 24.6% in Vacaville.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (63.1°F vs 62.1°F). Vacaville receives more rainfall at 24.8" per year compared to 12.3" in Modesto.