Modesto, CA
Population 218,614 · California
About Modesto, CA
Modesto is a major city in California with a population of 218,614 residents. The median household income is $77,899 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Modesto is 35.4 years.
Housing in Modesto has a median home value of $415,600 and median monthly rent of $1,609. Of the 75,525 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 42,321 owner-occupied and 30,097 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Modesto is 7.3% and the poverty rate is 13.0%. 20.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 29.7 minutes.
How Modesto Ranks in California
Cost of Living in Modesto, CA
Compared to national averages, Modesto has a median household income of $77,899 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $415,600, which is 70% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,609 is 38% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Modesto's income is 20% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 36% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Modesto, CA?
Modesto offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $77,899, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $415,600. However, as a major city, Modesto provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Modesto has a population of 218,614 with a median age of 35.4 years. Compare Modesto with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Modesto
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Bernardino | 221,774 | $63,988 | $384,900 | Compare |
| Fontana | 211,921 | $98,187 | $558,500 | Compare |
| Moreno Valley | 210,378 | $87,477 | $461,400 | Compare |
| Fremont | 228,518 | $176,350 | $1,289,400 | Compare |
| Santa Clarita | 229,021 | $119,926 | $721,000 | Compare |
| Oxnard | 201,014 | $93,372 | $617,800 | Compare |
| Huntington Beach | 196,010 | $119,885 | $1,047,300 | Compare |
| Glendale | 192,270 | $84,262 | $1,043,900 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in California
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Modesto
What is the population of Modesto, CA?
The population of Modesto, CA is 218,614 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Modesto?
The median household income in Modesto, CA is $77,899 per year.
What is the median home value in Modesto?
The median home value in Modesto, CA is $415,600.
What is the average rent in Modesto?
The median monthly rent in Modesto, CA is $1,609.
What is the unemployment rate in Modesto?
The unemployment rate in Modesto, CA is 7.3%.