Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
5% cheaper
Modesto is 5% more affordable than Manchester. A $75,000 salary in Manchester is equivalent to $71,186 in Modesto.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Hampshire salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Manchester has a housing index of 140 while Modesto sits at 121 (national average = 100). The median home in Manchester costs $350,000 compared to $380,000 in Modesto, a difference of $30,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,600 in Manchester versus $1,400 in Modesto.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Manchester scores 105 while Modesto scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Manchester (112) are higher than Modesto (100).
Median household income in Manchester is $65,018 compared to $55,138 in Modesto. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Modesto.
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