Modesto, CA

Modesto CA scores 48/100 on safety (well below average). Crime is about 47% above the national average. Research block-level crime data and visit after dark before you commit.

Detail: overall crime index 147 (100 = avg); violent crime index 173; property crime index 121. Indexes near 100 track a typical U.S. load. Higher means more crime pressure on that category.

School quality varies by neighborhood in Modesto. Check GreatSchools.org or your local district for current ratings before you choose a ZIP.

Typical rent in Modesto is about $1,690/month (on the high side). At $1,690/month for a typical unit, you need about $60,840+ in household income to rent comfortably without stretching (3× rent × 12). Typical home value: $442,700.

Median household income is $79,891, property taxes run about 1.45%, and homes typically sell in around 28 days. Local median income ($79,891) clears the $60,840 comfort line for that rent.

Walk Score 68 (Somewhat Walkable); transit score 42 (Some Transit).

Average temperature is about 80°F (highs near 96°F, lows near 65°F).

Midafternoon outdoor time is limited most of summer without shade and water. Plan on summer electric bills around $200–$300/month for a typical apartment if you run AC hard. If you visit, go in July or August. That is the real test.

Who tends to thrive in Modesto: (1) People who genuinely love heat and do not mind living indoors June through September (highs near 96°F) (2) Households earning $60,840+ who can clear the 3× rent rule at $1,690/month (3) Movers with a locked job offer in Modesto who already priced rent and commute (4) Buyers comparing mid-size metros who will tour multiple ZIPs before signing

Who should look elsewhere: (1) People with young kids who want to let them roam freely (crime pressure is real here; safety 48/100) (2) People who need outdoor time year-round for their mental health (summers lock you inside for 3–4 months; highs near 96°F) (3) Anyone stretching past 40% of take-home on housing at $1,690/month

Income sniff test: clear about $60,840 household income for $1,690/month rent. Under that, pick a cheaper ZIP or a different city.

Modesto scores 48/100 on safety with $1,690/month typical rent. Run the numbers against your income before committing.