Modesto, CA
Population 218,614 · California
About Modesto, CA
Modesto is a major city located in California with a population of 218,614 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $77,899 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.4 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Modesto features a median home value of $415,600, which is 70% above the national median of $244,900. This places Modesto in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,609, 38% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 75,525 total housing units, 58% are owner-occupied (42,321 units) and 42% are renter-occupied (30,097 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Modesto shows an unemployment rate of 7.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Modesto have an average one-way commute time of 29.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.3% of Modesto residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 39.9% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, and 3.0% Asian residents, with 18.7% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Modesto With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Modesto
What is the population of Modesto, CA?
The population of Modesto, CA is 218,614 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in California.
What is the median household income in Modesto?
The median household income in Modesto, CA is $77,899 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Modesto?
The median home value in Modesto, CA is $415,600, which is 70% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Modesto?
The median monthly rent in Modesto, CA is $1,609, which is 38% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Modesto?
The unemployment rate in Modesto, CA is 7.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Modesto, CA a good place to live?
Modesto offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 218,614 and a median age of 35.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Modesto, CA?
20.3% of residents in Modesto aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Modesto?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Modesto, CA: median home value is $415,600 (70% above national), median rent is $1,609/month, and median household income is $77,899. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Modesto?
The poverty rate in Modesto, CA is 13.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Modesto, CA?
Modesto's population is 39.9% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, 3.0% Asian, and 4.3% two or more races. 18.7% of residents are foreign-born.