Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
24% cheaper
Charleston is 24% more affordable than Modesto. A $75,000 salary in Modesto is equivalent to $56,920 in Charleston.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: West Virginia salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charleston has a housing index of 62 while Modesto sits at 121 (national average = 100). The median home in Charleston costs $135,000 compared to $380,000 in Modesto, a difference of $245,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $850 in Charleston versus $1,400 in Modesto.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Charleston scores 97 while Modesto scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Charleston (91) are lower than Modesto (100).
Median household income in Charleston is $42,034 compared to $55,138 in Modesto. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Charleston.
Amazon affiliate links