Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
24% cheaper
El Paso is 24% more affordable than Modesto. A $75,000 salary in Modesto is equivalent to $56,920 in El Paso.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. El Paso has a housing index of 69 while Modesto sits at 121 (national average = 100). The median home in El Paso costs $185,000 compared to $380,000 in Modesto, a difference of $195,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in El Paso versus $1,400 in Modesto.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: El Paso scores 95 while Modesto scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in El Paso (89) are lower than Modesto (100).
Median household income in El Paso is $47,568 compared to $55,138 in Modesto. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in El Paso.
Amazon affiliate links