Stanislaus County Apartments for Rent

In the San Joaquin Valley roughly 90 miles east of San Francisco, Stanislaus County was a relatively quiet area dotted with sparse, rural communities and farmland. As housing costs increased in San Francisco, that all changed – now, while some parts remain pastoral, others cities and towns have turned into busy bedroom communities filled with commuters. The San Joaquin River flows through the county, dividing it in half.

Modesto, the county seat, is a beautiful city surrounded by open farmland. It is located 66 miles west of Yosemite National Park and 68 miles south of Sacramento. And although Modesto might not be as easily recognized as some other cities in Northern California, it is an entertainment Mecca. It is home to X-Fest, a fun and funky four-day event featuring live bands ranging from rock to hip hop. Modesto is also home to the Gallo Center for the Arts, the Modesto Symphony Orchestra, and many other theaters, museums, and cultural centers. Modesto Junior College and California State University-Stanislaus are both located in Modesto.

The city of Newman has also seen record growth recently. Traditionally a rural, small town, Newman was founded in 1888. Its Main Street is a pedestrian-friendly shopping district with wide sidewalks and quaint architecture accentuated with palm trees. North of Newman, the city of Patterson is also seeing rapid growth. With its roots firmly planted in agriculture, Patterson is known for its apricot production. The annual Apricot Festival celebrates all things apricot with food, drinks, beauty pageants, games, and a parade. The three-day celebration includes hot air balloons and fireworks, as well.

Other cities in Stanislaus County include Waterford, Riverbank, Oakdale, and Ceres. Other communities include Parklawn, Rouse, Empire, Grayson, Keyes, Bystrom, Cowan, Del Rio, and Shakelford. Part of the San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge is located in Stanislaus County.