Aurora, CO vs Modesto, CA: 130 vs 120

$1,759/mo ↑ 9%

Median Rent

$1,609/mo ↓ 9%

$84,320/yr ↑ 8%

Median Income

$77,899/yr ↓ 8%

$444,500 ↑ 7%

Home Value

$415,600 ↓ 7%

$1,762/mo ↑ 9%

Owner Costs

$1,613/mo ↓ 8%

390,201

Population

218,614

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, CO and Modesto, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 130 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $150/month cheaper in Modesto, saving renters about $1,800/year.

Median household income is $6,421/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $444,500 compared to $415,600 in Modesto.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Aurora slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Modesto — common questions

Is Aurora or Modesto cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Modesto is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 130 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Modesto?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,759/month and in Modesto it's $1,609/month — a difference of $150/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Modesto?

Median household income is $84,320 in Aurora and $77,899 in Modesto. Median household income is $6,421/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Colorado and California?

Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Modesto?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 130 with median rent of $1,759/mo, while Modesto has a cost index of 120 with rent of $1,609/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, CO vs Modesto, CA (2026)

Aurora

Modesto

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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