Merced vs Modesto
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Merced is 4% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,055/mo vs $1,092/mo in Modesto — saving $444/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Merced | Modesto | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $696 | $727 | $31 |
| 1 Bedroom | $865 | $912 | $47 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,055 | $1,092 | $37 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,328 | $1,412 | $84 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 | $1,509 | $49 |
| Median Income | $60,958 | $56,394 | $4,564 |
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
Modesto
- Studio
- $727/mo
- 1 BR
- $912/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,092/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,412/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,509/mo
- Median Income
- $56,394/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Merced or Modesto cheaper to rent in?
Merced is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,055/mo vs $1,092/mo in Modesto. That's $37/mo or $444/year more expensive in Modesto (4% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Merced vs Modesto?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Merced is $1,055/month. In Modesto, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,092/month.
How do incomes compare between Merced and Modesto?
The median household income in Merced is $60,958/year. In Modesto it is $56,394/year. Merced has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Merced vs Modesto?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Merced is $696/mo. In Modesto it is $727/mo.