Modesto, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA: 120 vs 172

$1,609/mo ↓ 23%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 30%

$77,899/yr ↓ 20%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 25%

$415,600 ↓ 39%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 65%

$1,613/mo ↓ 24%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 32%

218,614

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Modesto, CA and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $475/month cheaper in Modesto, saving renters about $5,700/year.

Median household income is $19,511/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Modesto is $415,600 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Modesto vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Modesto or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Modesto is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Modesto and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $475/month.

Which city has higher income, Modesto or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $77,899 in Modesto and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $19,511/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Santa Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Modesto has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,609/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Modesto, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA (2026)

Modesto

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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