The chance of becoming a victim of violent or property crime in Modesto is 1 in 31. According to FBI crime data, Modesto is not one of the safest communities in the United States. Compared to California, Modesto has a crime rate higher than 86% of cities and towns in the state of all sizes. More problems arise with places such as airports, parks and schools. The main airports, of which Modesto has 0, always seem like places of high crime due to the large number of people and the low population nearby.
Designated parks and recreational areas, of which Modesto has 17, have the same problem. Of Modesto's 250,975 residents, few live near recreational areas. Because so many people visit, crime rates can seem higher even in safe parks. Ultimately, crime happens where people are, whether they live there or not.
Before you rule out an area as unsafe, look at crime rate and total crime maps, and then consider nearby destinations people may be visiting. The high crime rate in the city is a problem. But, unfortunately, if you plan to live here, that's something you have to deal with. The total crime rate is 66% above the national average, and property crimes are 57% higher.
With such a high crime rate, you'll need to be selective when choosing neighborhoods. The public transportation system in Modesto is handled by the Modesto Area Express (MAX), which offers many routes that intertwine throughout the city.