Cost of Living: Modesto, CA vs Vancouver, WA (2026)

Modesto

California
120
VS

Vancouver

Washington
123

Modesto is 2% cheaper than Vancouver.

$1,609/mo ↓ 1%
Median Rent
$1,632/mo ↑ 1%
$77,899/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$78,156/yr ≈ Same
$415,600 ↓ 6%
Home Value
$440,300 ↑ 6%
$1,613/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,607/mo ≈ Same
218,614
Population
192,696

Tax Comparison

13.3%
Income Tax
0%
7.25%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
0.71%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

24.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Modesto, CA and Vancouver, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 123 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $257/year higher in Vancouver. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Modesto is $415,600 compared to $440,300 in Vancouver.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Vancouver residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Modesto vs Vancouver — common questions

Is Modesto or Vancouver cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Modesto is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 123 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Modesto and Vancouver?
Median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month and in Vancouver it's $1,632/month — a difference of $23/month.
Which city has higher income, Modesto or Vancouver?
Median household income is $77,899 in Modesto and $78,156 in Vancouver. Median household income is $257/year higher in Vancouver.
How do taxes compare between California and Washington?
California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Modesto or Vancouver?
It depends on your priorities. Modesto has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,609/mo, while Vancouver has a cost index of 123 with rent of $1,632/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Modesto details → View Vancouver details →

More Comparisons

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