Cost of living in Modesto
Modesto, located in the heart of California's Central Valley, offers a unique blend of urban and rural living. Understanding the cost of living in Modesto is crucial for anyone considering a move to this vibrant city.
With its diverse economy and proximity to major cities like San Francisco and Sacramento, Modesto provides a range of living experiences. This guide will help you navigate the various expenses associated with living in Modesto, from housing and dining to transportation and utilities.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $16.5 on average, with a range between $10 and $50.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $80, with prices ranging from $70 to $150.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $9.5, with a range between $9 and $13.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3 to $11, imported beer $7 to $15, cappuccino $3.09 to $7, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $5.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.77 and $1.85 per liter, averaging $1.06.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $2.76 and $6.6, with an average price of $3.88.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2.99 to $9, averaging $4.69.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $3.31 to $12.13 per kg, while oranges range from $2.14 to $11.02 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.46 and $8.6 per kg, and lettuce costs $2.29 to $5 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs $2, with a monthly pass priced between $30 and $45.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1.18 and $1.48 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $3.5, with a cost of $1.86 per km and $30 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1180 to $1800, averaging $1446.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1000 to $1500, averaging $1284.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $2200 to $2800, averaging $2466.67.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $2000 to $2800, averaging $2425.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre averages $3186.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $2368.06 to $3186, averaging $2777.03.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $166.96 and $500, averaging $279.68.
- Internet - Internet services range from $50 to $120, with an average cost of $66.25.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Modesto offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger Californian cities. Housing costs are moderate, especially outside the city centre.
Dining out can be economical, with a variety of options available. Transportation costs are reasonable, with affordable public transport and fuel prices.
Grocery prices vary, but essentials like milk and bread are reasonably priced. Utilities can be a significant expense, so budgeting for these is important.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Modesto provides a balanced cost of living with affordable housing and dining options. While some expenses like utilities can be higher, the overall cost of living remains manageable.
For those considering a move to Modesto, understanding these costs can help in planning a budget and making informed decisions about relocation.