Modesto, CA vs Vallejo, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Modesto is 17.5% cheaper than Vallejo. With a cost index of 120 vs 145, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Modesto to Vallejo should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month compared to $2,013/month in Vallejo — a 20% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Modesto is more affordable at $415,600 median vs $557,500.

Median household income in Modesto is $77,899 compared to $89,496 in Vallejo (-13%). The higher salaries in Vallejo 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 27% in Vallejo.

Climate-wise, Modesto is notably warmer with an average of 63.1°F compared to 57.7°F in Vallejo. Vallejo receives more rainfall at 20.2" per year compared to 12.3" in Modesto.