Modesto, CA vs Pasadena, CA
Side-by-side comparison of housing, income, commute, safety, and quality of life.
Score Snapshot
No universal winner
Scores summarize the published model. Use the objective metric differences below and your own priorities to choose.
Modesto
64.2
#1712 nationally
Pasadena
61.6
#1898 nationally
Modesto leads in cost of living index (130 vs 197). Pasadena leads in walk score (69 vs 48). Pasadena leads in crime level (13.2 vs 18.0).
Metric-by-Metric Breakdown
| Metric | Modesto, CA | Pasadena, CA |
|---|---|---|
| WhereAtHome Score | 64.2 (#1712) | 61.6 (#1898) |
| Population | 218,915 | 133,560 |
| Typical Home Value (ZHVI) | $447,153 | $1,206,740 |
| Median Household Income | $73,375 | $97,818 |
| Average Commute | 29.4 min | 27.9 min |
| Walk Score | 48 | 69 |
| Crime Level | 18.0 | 13.2 |
| School Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Cost of Living Index | 130 | 197 |
| Political lean County 2024 presidential margin — context only, not scored | R+11.0 | D+32.9 |
D
64.2 Score
Modesto, CA
Growing California city with expanding opportunities
Median Home
$447,153
Population
218,915
Crime
High
Walk Score
48
Pacific
View Modesto, CA →
D-
61.6 Score
Pasadena, CA
Mid-size California city with community character
Median Home
$1,206,740
Population
133,560
Crime
Moderate-High
Walk Score
69
Pacific
View Pasadena, CA →