What are the hidden costs of living in Modesto?

Higher-than-average property taxes in the Central Valley Older homes may require frequent maintenance Parking restrictions in the downtown area can add hassle

What is the median home price in Modesto?

The median home price in Modesto is approximately $328,700.

Modesto has a Walk Score of 9 out of 100. Most errands require a car.

Modesto, CA

Updated April 30, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Think twice

Verdict

$329K

Median Price

9/100

Walk Score

5/10

Schools

92 min

to Sacramento

Score Breakdown

FWalkability

9/100

FCommute

15/100

DQuietness

40/100

DAffordability

45/100

D+Schools

50/100

D+Safety

55/100

WYLT Score36/100

Our Take

Modesto offers very affordable housing and solid schools, but it’s almost entirely car‑dependent and has a high crime rate and poor air quality. It might be okay for budget‑conscious buyers who don’t mind a long commute, but most people will find better quality of life elsewhere.

Map

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The Good

✓Homes are relatively cheap compared to the rest of California
✓Public schools have high average ratings
✓Low flood risk in this part of Modesto
✓Community library and local cultural spots

Real Talk

!Walk score is near zero – you’ll need a car for almost everything
!Commuting to Sacramento takes about 92 minutes each way
!Violent and property crime rates are higher than the national average
!Air quality can be quite poor, especially in winter and during dust events
$Higher-than-average property taxes in the Central Valley
$Older homes may require frequent maintenance
$Parking restrictions in the downtown area can add hassle

Best For

First‑time home buyers on a budgetFamilies seeking good schoolsRemote workers who can handle a long commuteStudents looking for affordable housing

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow

Violent crimeModerate

Property crimeModerate

Air qualityPoor

Price volatilityModerate

Crime & Safety

Modesto, CA

D+

Safety grade

Safety score55 / 100

High riskVery safe

⚠️Violent Crime

Moderate

3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (3.7)11+

5% higher than the national average

🔒Property Crime

Moderate

19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (19.5)59+

2% higher than the national average

Verify with real-time data

AreaVibes crime →City-Data stats →NeighborhoodScout →

Rates are estimated from neighborhood characteristics using national FBI baselines. Actual figures vary by block — always verify with local sources before making decisions.

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From Residents

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