Demographics

As of 2023, Stanislaus County, CA has an estimated population of 562,000. The median age is about 35. Females make up 50.2% and males 49.8%. The racial/ethnic composition is 44% Hispanic or Latino, 41% White (non-Hispanic), 5% Asian, 2.5% Black or African American, and 2% multiracial. Native American and Pacific Islander populations comprise less than 1% each.

Elections

Stanislaus County, CA has around 291,000 registered voters as of 2022, with registration split roughly 41% Democratic, 32% Republican, and 20% No Party Preference. The county conducts general, primary, and special elections, with more than 150 polling locations, plus widespread vote-by-mail. In the 2020 presidential election, 49.3% voted for Biden and 48.1% for Trump. Key issues include water management and agriculture. Elections are overseen by the Stanislaus County Registrar of Voters, ensuring accessibility and security across all ballots.

Education, Employment and Housing

Stanislaus County, CA, hosts over 225 public schools, including 25 high schools. About 21% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools score an average of 5/10 on GreatSchools ratings. The county offers adult education through Modesto Institute of Technology and Stanislaus Adult School. School districts prioritize safety, with security measures and resource officers in several campuses. Programs include STEM, career technical education, and dual enrollment with local colleges, serving over 100,000 students annually.

Stanislaus County, CA, had an unemployment rate of approximately 6.9% in early 2024. Key industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (17%), Retail Trade (11%), and Manufacturing (11%). The leading occupations are Office & Administrative Support (14%) and Sales (10%). About 88% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 29 minutes; a significant portion works outside the county, mainly in neighboring San Joaquin and Merced counties. Overall, the county's employment reflects a diverse economic base and a strong orientation toward regional commuting.

Stanislaus County, CA, has a homeownership rate of about 57%, with median home values around $425,000 as of early 2024. Rental rates average $1,600 per month. The market shows modest growth, with home values up approximately 3% year-over-year. Housing types range from single-family homes to some multi-family and apartments. Popular neighborhoods include Modesto’s College Area and Turlock’s Eastside. Property tax rates approximate 1.1% of assessed value, alongside supplemental assessments and local bonds. Overall, housing affordability remains a local concern amid steady demand and limited new construction.

County Crime & Safety

Stanislaus County, CA, reported a violent crime rate of 531.8 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 2,382.7 per 100,000 in 2022, according to the California Department of Justice. While overall crime saw a slight decline from the previous year, violent incidents remain above national averages. Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office and local police agencies continue to encourage community crime reporting, which increased by 7% in 2023, aiding efforts to improve safety and direct resources to high-risk areas.