The Salary Index

Salary Comparison

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers: Modesto vs Tacoma

Side-by-side salary, take-home pay, cost of living, and lifestyle score.

Modesto, CA

$68,018/yr

Take-home$4,138/mo
Disposable$1,636/mo
Lifestyle6/10 ยท Moderate
Best Value

Tacoma, WA

$89,860/yr

Take-home$5,467/mo
Disposable$2,697/mo
Lifestyle7/10 ยท Moderate
๐Ÿ†

Our recommendation: Tacoma, WA

Tacoma offers $1,061 more per month in disposable income, giving a stronger financial outcome despite comparable pay.

Full Breakdown

Modesto

Tacoma

Diff (Aโˆ’B)

Annual Gross Salary

$68,018

$89,860

$21,842

A vs B

Monthly Take-Home

After estimated federal + state taxes

$4,138

$5,467

$1,329

A vs B

Cost of Living Index

Lower is more affordable. US avg = 100

93

103

-10 pts

A vs B

Monthly Living Costs

Housing, food, transport, utilities, healthcare

$2,502

$2,770

$268

A vs B

Monthly Rent

$1,420

$1,620

$200

A vs B

Monthly Disposable

$1,636

$2,697

$1,061

A vs B

Purchasing Power Score

Take-home รท living costs. Higher is better

1.65ร—

1.97ร—

-0.32ร—

A vs B

Lifestyle Score

6/10 (Moderate)

7/10 (Moderate)

-1

A vs B

Salary estimates based on BLS metro data. Cost of living from regional price indices. All figures are estimates; verify with employers before making decisions.