Affordable

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Modesto?

To afford a 2-bedroom in Modesto, you need to earn at least $30,840/year based on estimated fair market rent data. The median household income here is $66,458, which means the typical resident is $35,618 above the threshold.

Census ACS Data Pop. 183

Salary Required by Bedroom Size

Bedroom	Monthly Rent	Monthly Income	Annual Salary	vs. Median
Studio	$540	$1,800	$21,600	$-44,858
1 Bedroom	$640	$2,133	$25,600	$-40,858
2 Bedroom BENCHMARK	$771	$2,570	$30,840	$-35,618
3 Bedroom	$941	$3,137	$37,640	$-28,818
4 Bedroom	$1,157	$3,857	$46,280	$-20,178

Affordability Breakdown

Where the required salary line crosses above Modesto's median income — housing becomes unaffordable for the typical resident.

Required Salary Median Income

Income vs. Rent Snapshot

Median Income

$66,458

Annual household

2BR Required Salary

$30,840

Under 30% rule

Income Gap

+$35,618

Surplus

Verdict

Affordable

Ratio: 13.9%

The 30% Rule Calculator

Enter your annual salary to see what you can afford in Modesto

Your Annual Salary

Pre-filled with Modesto's median household income

Max monthly rent you can afford$1,661

Studio

$540/mo

1 BR

$640/mo

2 BR

$771/mo

3 BR

$941/mo

4 BR

$1,157/mo

Your salary is $0 above the median income in Modesto.

Salary Comparison by Bedroom

Bars left of the marker line are affordable for Modesto's median earner. Bars to the right require above-median income.

Affordable Above Median Median Income

What This Means If You're Moving to Modesto

Modesto, Illinois stands out as one of the more financially accessible housing markets in the state. The median household income of $66,458 significantly exceeds the $30,840 needed to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom at 30% of gross income — leaving a $35,618 annual surplus for savings, debt repayment, or lifestyle spending.

For remote workers or relocators evaluating Modesto, a studio at $540/month offers an even more aggressive savings rate. Even a 3-bedroom at $941/month remains accessible for dual-income households earning above $37,640.

To live comfortably with room for non-housing expenses, a break-even salary of approximately $46,260 would position you well — though many residents in Modesto manage on less given the favorable rent-to-income dynamics.

Economic Outlook

Local Job Market & Housing Dynamics

Affording rent isn't just about housing prices—it's heavily dependent on local employment opportunities and the strength of the job market in Modesto, Illinois.

With a total population of 183, the city supports an active civilian workforce of 79 people. A strong employment base often indicates a stable economy, which is crucial when committing to a lease requiring a $30,840 annual salary. The ratio of employed residents to the total population provides insight into the local economic health and competition for both jobs and housing.

Employed Workforce

Active civilian employees in Modesto

Frequently Asked Questions About Renting in Modesto

What salary do I need to live in Modesto, Illinois?

To afford a 2-bedroom in Modesto under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of at least $30,840. The median household income in Modesto is $66,458.

Can I afford a 2-bedroom in Modesto on $66,458?

The affordability verdict for Modesto is "Affordable". The rent-to-income ratio is 13.9%, meaning median earners have a $35,618 surplus.

What is the average rent in Modesto compared to median income?

The median gross rent in Modesto is $640/month. With a median household income of $66,458, residents spend approximately 13.9% of their income on rent.

What salary do I need for a studio in Modesto?

A studio in Modesto rents for approximately $540/month. Under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of $21,600 to afford this.

Is Modesto considered an affordable place to live?

Based on the surplus of $35,618 and an affordability verdict of "Affordable", Modesto is considered a affordable rental market when comparing the required 2-bedroom salary of $30,840 to the local median household income.

How Modesto Compares

Other cities in Illinois with salary requirements