Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
31% cheaper
Modesto is 31% more affordable than Boston. A $75,000 salary in Boston is equivalent to $51,852 in Modesto.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Massachusetts salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Boston has a housing index of 242 while Modesto sits at 121 (national average = 100). The median home in Boston costs $620,000 compared to $380,000 in Modesto, a difference of $240,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,800 in Boston versus $1,400 in Modesto.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Boston scores 108 while Modesto scores 100.
Healthcare costs in Boston (118) are higher than Modesto (100).
Median household income in Boston is $76,298 compared to $55,138 in Modesto. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Modesto.
Amazon affiliate links