Fresno vs Merced
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Merced is 3% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,055/mo vs $1,083/mo in Fresno — saving $336/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Fresno | Merced | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $732 | $696 | $36 |
| 1 Bedroom | $890 | $865 | $25 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,083 | $1,055 | $28 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,294 | $1,328 | $34 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,619 | $1,460 | $159 |
| Median Income | $61,735 | $60,958 | $777 |
Fresno
- Studio
- $732/mo
- 1 BR
- $890/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,083/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,294/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,619/mo
- Median Income
- $61,735/yr
Merced
- Studio
- $696/mo
- 1 BR
- $865/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,055/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,328/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,460/mo
- Median Income
- $60,958/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fresno or Merced cheaper to rent in?
Merced is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,055/mo vs $1,083/mo in Fresno. That's $28/mo or $336/year more expensive in Fresno (3% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Fresno vs Merced?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Fresno is $1,083/month. In Merced, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,055/month.
How do incomes compare between Fresno and Merced?
The median household income in Fresno is $61,735/year. In Merced it is $60,958/year. Fresno has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Fresno vs Merced?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Fresno is $732/mo. In Merced it is $696/mo.