Cost of Living: Modesto, CA vs Orange, CA (2026)

Modesto

California
120
VS

Orange

California
206

Modesto is 42% cheaper than Orange.

$1,609/mo ↓ 29%
Median Rent
$2,252/mo ↑ 40%
$77,899/yr ↓ 33%
Median Income
$116,945/yr ↑ 50%
$415,600 ↓ 54%
Home Value
$900,700 ↑ 117%
$1,613/mo ↓ 33%
Owner Costs
$2,394/mo ↑ 48%
218,614
Population
138,723

Tax Comparison

13.3%
Income Tax
13.3%
7.25%
State Sales Tax
7.25%
0.71%
Property Tax
0.71%

Affordability

24.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Modesto, CA and Orange, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 206 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $643/month cheaper in Modesto, saving renters about $7,716/year.

Median household income is $39,046/year higher in Orange. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Modesto is $415,600 compared to $900,700 in Orange.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Modesto vs Orange — common questions

Is Modesto or Orange cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Modesto is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 206 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Modesto and Orange?
Median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month and in Orange it's $2,252/month — a difference of $643/month.
Which city has higher income, Modesto or Orange?
Median household income is $77,899 in Modesto and $116,945 in Orange. Median household income is $39,046/year higher in Orange.
How do taxes compare between California and California?
Both cities are in California and share the same state tax rates: 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.
Should I move to Modesto or Orange?
It depends on your priorities. Modesto has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,609/mo, while Orange has a cost index of 206 with rent of $2,252/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Modesto details → View Orange details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Modesto and Orange

Modesto vs. Huntsville Modesto vs. Des Moines Modesto vs. Spring Valley Modesto vs. Fontana Modesto vs. Port St. Lucie Modesto vs. Moreno Valley Orange vs. Metairie Orange vs. Warren Orange vs. Fullerton Orange vs. Columbia Orange vs. Waco Orange vs. West Valley City