Cost of Living in Merced, CA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
117.2
100 = national avg
+17.2 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$51,589
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$121,938
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing151.8
Food95.8
Transportation103.7
Healthcare96.6
Utilities107.8
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,213
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,503
per month
The overall cost of living index in Merced is 117.2, which is 17.2% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 151.8. A single adult needs to earn approximately $51,589 per year to cover basic expenses.