Modesto

Modesto, California Overview

Modesto faces challenges across several categories, earning a D grade (42.9/100) and ranking #17 of 20 cities in California. Even so, the city scores 51/100 in Fiscal Health — a relative bright spot compared to its Environment score of 25/100.

Income & Employment in Modesto

The median household income in Modesto is $80,471, 12% below the statewide median of $91,905. The local unemployment rate of 6.5% is higher than the state’s 5.4%. Population grew 0.5% recently.

Safety in Modesto

With a violent crime rate of 651.1 per 100,000, Modesto exceeds the California average of 440. Safety is a factor prospective residents should weigh carefully. The property crime rate is 2260.1 per 100,000.

Cost of Living in Modesto

Modesto has a cost of living index of 105 (where 100 equals the national average), slightly above the national benchmark. The median home value is $415,600. Median monthly rent is $1,609. Renters spend 24.0% of income on rent, well within the 30% affordability guideline. The price-to-income ratio of 5.2x suggests home buyers face a stretched market.

Health & Wellness in Modesto

The adult obesity rate in Modesto is 36.2%, above the national average and a factor in the city’s health profile. The diabetes prevalence rate is 12.1%. Residents report an average of 19 poor mental health days per month, above the typical range. California ranks #16 nationally for overall health.

Education & Schools in Modesto

Modesto has a high school graduation rate of 86.8%. With a student-teacher ratio of 22.4:1, class sizes tend to be larger than the national median. Per-pupil spending is $15,842. The city has 72 public schools serving 49,375 students. School data is sourced from the NCES Common Core of Data and EDFacts.

Climate in Modesto

Modesto enjoys a moderate climate with an annual average of 62.1°F. Summers average 78.7°F. Winters average 47.6°F. Annual precipitation is 26.3 inches.

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