Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
5% cheaper
Baltimore is 5% more affordable than Modesto. A $75,000 salary in Modesto is equivalent to $70,982 in Baltimore.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Maryland salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Baltimore has a housing index of 107 while Modesto sits at 121 (national average = 100). The median home in Baltimore costs $200,000 compared to $380,000 in Modesto, a difference of $180,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,300 in Baltimore versus $1,400 in Modesto.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Baltimore scores 103 while Modesto scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Baltimore (101) are higher than Modesto (100). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Baltimore is $52,164 compared to $55,138 in Modesto. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Baltimore.
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