Salary Needed to Live in Modesto as a Family
A family of four (2 adults, 2 children) needs approximately $62,069/year to live comfortably in Modesto, CA — including 15% savings.
Comfortable Salary
$62,069
with 15% savings
Bare Minimum
$49,315
no savings buffer
Monthly Expenses
$3,000
3% above national avg
Detailed Monthly Budget for a Family in Modesto
| Expense | Modesto | Nat'l Avg | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏠 3BR Apartment/House Rent | $191 | $209 | -9% |
| 🛒 Groceries | $60 | $44 | +36% |
| ⚡ Utilities | $23 | $28 | -18% |
| 🚗 Transportation | $37 | $44 | -16% |
| 🛡️ Car Insurance | $176 | $215 | -18% |
| 🏥 Health Insurance | $43 | $54 | -20% |
| Childcare/After-school | $1,272 | $1,200 | +6% |
| Internet + Phones | $191 | $180 | +6% |
| Children Activities | $265 | $250 | +6% |
| Dining Out | $371 | $350 | +6% |
| School Supplies & Clothing | $212 | $200 | +6% |
| Healthcare Co-pays | $159 | $150 | +6% |
| Total Monthly | $3,000 | $2,924 | +3% |
How We Calculated the Salary
Monthly expenses:$3,000
Target savings (15%):$666/mo
Monthly after-tax needed:$3,666
Effective tax rate:27%
Gross annual salary needed:$62,069
Other Household Types in Modesto
Related Pages
FAQ
What salary does a family with kids need in Modesto?
A family with kids needs approximately $62,069/year ($5,172/month gross) to live comfortably in Modesto with a 15% savings rate.
How much is rent for a family with kids in Modesto?
A 3br apartment/house in Modesto costs approximately $191/month, which is the largest single expense at 6% of the total budget.
Is Modesto affordable for a family with kids?
Modesto is roughly average for family with kids costs, requiring a salary close to the national median.