Merced vs Salinas
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Merced is 51% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,055/mo vs $1,591/mo in Salinas — saving $6,432/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Merced | Salinas | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $696 | $1,095 | $399 |
| 1 Bedroom | $865 | $1,311 | $446 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,055 | $1,591 | $536 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,328 | $2,085 | $757 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 | $2,361 | $901 |
| Median Income | $60,958 | $84,603 | $23,645 |
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
Salinas
- Studio
- $1,095/mo
- 1 BR
- $1,311/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,591/mo
- 3 BR
- $2,085/mo
- 4 BR
- $2,361/mo
- Median Income
- $84,603/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Merced or Salinas cheaper to rent in?
Merced is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,055/mo vs $1,591/mo in Salinas. That's $536/mo or $6,432/year more expensive in Salinas (51% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Merced vs Salinas?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Merced is $1,055/month. In Salinas, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,591/month.
How do incomes compare between Merced and Salinas?
The median household income in Merced is $60,958/year. In Salinas it is $84,603/year. Salinas has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Merced vs Salinas?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Merced is $696/mo. In Salinas it is $1,095/mo.