Rent comparison · HUD FY2026

Modesto, CA MSA vs Bakersfield-Delano, CA MSA

How do Modesto, CA MSA and Bakersfield-Delano, CA MSA rents compare? A side-by-side FY 2026 HUD Fair Market Rent breakdown, studio through 4-bedroom.

$1,356
Modesto, CA MSA (1BR)
$1,140
Bakersfield-Delano, CA MSA (1BR)
+19%
1BR difference

Side-by-side FY 2026 HUD Fair Market Rent comparison. Data from U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Metro
Modesto, CA MSA
$1,356/mo 1BR
Population: 552,063
Metro
Bakersfield-Delano, CA MSA
$1,140/mo 1BR
Population: 906,883

A 1-bedroom in Modesto, CA MSA is 19% more expensive than Bakersfield-Delano, CA MSA at the HUD Fair Market Rent level ($1,356 vs $1,140). Both figures are the 40th percentile of gross rents (utilities included, telephone excluded) set by HUD for the federal fiscal year 2026. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher payment standards in each area are set between 90% and 110% of these FMR numbers. Source: HUD Fair Market Rents.

How Do Rents Compare By Bedroom?

Bedrooms Modesto, CA MSA Bakersfield-Delano, CA MSA Difference
Studio $1,255 $1,132 +$123 (+11%)
1 Bedroom $1,356 $1,140 +$216 (+19%)
2 Bedroom $1,758 $1,483 +$275 (+19%)
3 Bedroom $2,442 $2,062 +$380 (+18%)
4 Bedroom $2,823 $2,488 +$335 (+13%)

vs US National Average

National average 1BR: $959. Modesto, CA MSA is 41% above the US average. Bakersfield-Delano, CA MSA is 19% above.

Sources: HUD Fair Market Rents FY 2026. Population and median income from U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS).