Modesto Apartments and Rentals

Modesto's central California location puts it within reach of the Pacific Ocean, the mountains, the world-renowned Yosemite National Park, the city of San Francisco and the Golden State capitol, Sacramento. It is still a hub of agricultural activity more than two centuries after it was founded.

Those looking for Modesto apartments for rent will quickly realize the city isn't afraid to capitalize upon its biggest claim to fame - the fact that it was the setting for the iconic film "American Graffiti." There's a bronze statue of Lucas located downtown, and residents celebrate Graffiti Summer every year.

According to Modesto's Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the city was populated by more than 211,000 people as of the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2010. Modesto is California's 16th largest city, but you wouldn't know it from the area's small-town feel and old-fashioned hospitality. In keeping with the city's location deep in California's agricultural heartland, you'll find lots of farmer's markets and roadside produce stands dotted about. The city is also home to the National Ag Science Center, which operates a mobile laboratory classroom and works with local schools to educate children about science and agriculture, opening their eyes to where the food they eat and the fibers they wear actually come from.

As you might expect, many - but not all - of Modesto's biggest employers hail from the agricultural field. That said, Stanislaus County itself is the area's top employer, with a workforce of more than 4,700 employees. Approximately 3,300 people work at the E&J Gallo Winery, while the city's school system employs more than 3,100 workers. Del Monte Foods, Frito-Lay and Seneca Foods Corporation, which owns the Green Giant label, are big names that also have a presence in Modesto.

Modesto Junior College is the city's main educational institution. It offers more than 30 different degrees associated with agriculture and the environment, including animal science, forestry and heavy machinery management. For those interested in nursing, education, business and the arts, Brandman University's Modesto campus or California State University, Stanislaus - which is located in nearby Turlock - may fit the bill.

According to City-Data.com's March 2012 cost of living index, the cost of living in Modesto (94.3) was less than both the national and state averages, while U.S. Census Bureau data puts the median gross rent at $1,001. Those who work in the Bay Area may be put off by the commute, but the lower costs of living and housing have their perks - especially if you're employed locally.

The 1950s craze that took off in the 1970s ("Happy Days," anyone?) was jumpstarted by the movie "American Graffiti," which was based on director George Lucas' experiences growing up in Modesto. For city residents, the month of June is known as Graffiti Summer, and comes with classic car parades, "American Graffiti" showings and other 1950s-themed festivities.

Later in the summer - usually at the beginning of August - the streets of downtown are taken over by the Xclamation Festival, or "X Fest." This event features upward of 60 bands playing on numerous stages, and typically draws crowds of around 20,000 people.

For nature lovers, the famous Yosemite National Park is less than a two-hour drive from the city. Take in the park's streams, cliffs, waterfalls and Sequoia groves, and be sure to pay a visit to its most famous geyser, Old Faithful, which was named for the regularity with which it erupts.

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