Santa Ana, CA vs Modesto, CA: 163 vs 120

$1,975/mo ↑ 23%

Median Rent

$1,609/mo ↓ 19%

$88,354/yr ↑ 13%

Median Income

$77,899/yr ↓ 12%

$657,800 ↑ 58%

Home Value

$415,600 ↓ 37%

$1,965/mo ↑ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,613/mo ↓ 18%

311,639

Population

218,614

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Modesto, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $366/month cheaper in Modesto, saving renters about $4,392/year.

Median household income is $10,455/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $415,600 in Modesto.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Modesto — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Modesto cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Modesto is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Modesto?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Modesto it's $1,609/month — a difference of $366/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Modesto?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $77,899 in Modesto. Median household income is $10,455/year higher in Santa Ana.

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 Santa Ana or Modesto?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/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: Santa Ana, CA vs Modesto, CA (2026)

Santa Ana

Modesto

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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