Demographics

Demographics facts and trends overview of Modesto Opens in new window

Incorporated August 6, 1884 in the center of California, Modesto is home to more than 210,000 residents and 13,000 businesses. Featuring a classic one-square-mile downtown center, Modesto encompasses a total incorporated area of 37 square miles and a total General Plan area of 66.7 square miles.

Modesto is a relatively young and diverse community with average age under 35 years.   From 2012 to 2017 Modesto has grown about 5%, a healthy manageable rate.   The city’s population growth has been accommodated with faster job growth;  between 2012 and 2017 the percentage of the population employed rose from 82% to over 90%.   Businesses are prospering with commercial and industrial vacancy rates at historic lows.