California / Stanislaus County

Moving to Modesto, CA

Thinking of making a move to Modesto, CA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Modesto, CA

Considering a move to Modesto, CA? This welcoming community of 218,069 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $389,000 and average rents near $1,380. Commute times average 29 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (78% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Modesto's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Modesto, CA

Modesto has a population of 218,069 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 36 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 48% White, 4% Black, and 7% Asian residents, and over 25% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
218,069
Density
5,800 per sq mi
Median Age
35.5
Gender Ratio
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
24.7%

Ethnic Composition

White
47.5%
Black
4.1%
Asian
6.5%
Others
41.9%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Modesto, CA?

The cost of living in Modesto is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 112.0. Median home values are around $389,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,380. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$389,000
Gross Rent
$1,380
Monthly Electricity Charges
$170
Auto Insurance
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,985
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$585
State Taxes
Low: 1%| High: 13.3%
Cost Of Living Index
112.0
Grocery
106.3
Housing
120.0
Utilities
115.4
Transportation
110.8
Health Care
103.2
Miscellaneous
101.5

Crime

Is Modesto, CA a safe place to live?

Modesto is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 550 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 35. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in California.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
550
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,890
Crime Index
3,440
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 182
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 35

Weather

What is the weather like in Modesto, CA year-round?

Modesto experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 94°F and cold winters dipping to 38°F. The area receives about 13 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 78% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
38°F
Max
58°F

Summer

Min
62°F
Max
94°F

Spring

Min
46°F
Max
75°F

Fall

Min
48°F
Max
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches
13.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
78%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $67,500 and a low poverty rate of 16.7%. Over 79% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 18% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 29 minutes, and almost 2% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$29,000
Household Income
$67,500
Family Income
$74,800
Per Capita Income
$28,500
Income Male
$40,200
Income Female
$34,600
Poverty Rate
16.7%
Non English Speakers
24.7%
Rent
$1,380
Unemployment Rate
7.6%
Public Transport Usage
1.8%
Commute Time
29.4 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
79.1%
Bachelors or More
17.8%

Education

How are the schools in Modesto, CA?

Modesto offers quality education options, with public schools like Modesto High School and La Loma Junior High known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Modesto Junior College and California State University, Stanislaus. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Modesto High School
Street
18 H St
Phone
209-576-4401
Students
2,400
Student Teacher Ratio
22.1
Name
La Loma Junior High
Street
1800 Encina Ave
Phone
209-576-4700
Students
850
Student Teacher Ratio
24.0

Private Schools

Name
Big Valley Christian School
Street
1020 Tully Rd
Phone
209-527-3481
Students
900

Colleges

Name
Modesto Junior College
City
Modesto
State
CA
Distance
0 miles
Students
17,000
Name
California State University, Stanislaus
City
Turlock
State
CA
Distance
14 miles
Students
10,600

Healthcare

Modesto residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Doctors Medical Center of Modesto and Memorial Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.2 per 1,000 people and 89.4% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Doctors Medical Center of Modesto
Address
1441 Florida Ave, Modesto, CA 95350
Phone
(209) 578-1211
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes
Name
Memorial Medical Center
Address
1700 Coffee Rd, Modesto, CA 95355
Phone
(209) 526-4500
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage
89.4%
Health Care Index
69.8

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Modesto, CA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $389,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 52%. The market has seen a 2.1% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.2%. Modesto offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$389,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$1,380
Owner Occupied Rate
52.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
2.1%
New Construction Rate
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate
0.7%

DMV Information

Residents of Modesto handle vehicle services through the California Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Modesto. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
California
Department
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address
124 Burney St, Modesto, CA 95354
Phone
1-800-777-0133

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.

FAQs About Moving to Modesto, CA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Modesto, review the core fields on this page: population 218,069, median home value $389,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,380, commute time 29.4 minutes, and sunny days percentage 78%.

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