Cities and Towns in Stanislaus County, California
Founded in 1854, Stanislaus County is one of 58 counties in the state of California. Historically, Stanislaus County was formed from Tuolumne. The city of Modesto is the county seat. With FIPS code of 99, Stanislaus County has a population of 552,999 and area of 1,495 square miles (3,872 km²).
List of all cities in Stanislaus County, CA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ceres, CA | 95307 | 209 |
| Crows Landing, CA | 95313 | 209 |
| Denair, CA | 95316 | 209 |
| Empire, CA | 95319 | 209 |
| Grayson, CA | 95363 | 209 |
| Hickman, CA | 95323 | 209 |
| Hughson, CA | 95326 | 209 |
| Keyes, CA | 95328 | 209 |
| Knights Ferry, CA | 95361 | 209 |
| La Grange, CA | 95329 | 209 |
| Modesto, CA | 95350 | 209 |
| 95351 | 209 | |
| 95352 | 209 | |
| 95353 | 209 | |
| 95354 | 209 | |
| 95355 | 209 | |
| 95356 | 209 | |
| 95357 | 209 | |
| 95358 | 209 | |
| 95397 | 209 | |
| Modesto Brm Zip, CA | 95397 | 209 |
| Newman, CA | 95360 | 209 |
| Oakdale, CA | 95361 | 209 |
| Patterson, CA | 95363 | 209 |
| Riverbank, CA | 95367 | 209 |
| Salida, CA | 95368 | 209 |
| Turlock, CA | 95380 | 209 |
| 95381 | 209 | |
| 95382 | 209 | |
| Valley Home, CA | 95361 | 209 |
| Waterford, CA | 95386 | 209 |
| Westley, CA | 95387 | 209 |
Major Cities and Towns in Stanislaus County, California
Modesto
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 44.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 220,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 95350-95358, 95397
- Latitude: 37.6391° N
- Longitude: 120.9969° W
City Location and History
Modesto, the county seat of Stanislaus County, is located in the Central Valley of California, about 90 miles east of San Francisco and 70 miles south of Sacramento. Established in 1870 when the Central Pacific Railroad extended its line through the region, Modesto quickly became a key agricultural hub. The city’s name, meaning “modest” in Spanish, was chosen after the original suggestion to name the city after financier William C. Ralston was declined by him. Over the years, Modesto grew rapidly, fueled by its agricultural industry, particularly in the production of almonds, walnuts, and dairy. Modesto is also known for its deep connection to car culture, as depicted in George Lucas’s famous film American Graffiti, which was inspired by his teenage years in the city. Today, Modesto is a vibrant city with a mix of historic charm and modern amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Modesto is served by the Modesto City Schools district, which includes major institutions like Modesto High School and Davis High School. The city is home to landmarks such as the Gallo Center for the Arts, which hosts a variety of performances, and the McHenry Mansion, a restored Victorian house that offers a glimpse into Modesto’s past. Graceada Park, located in the heart of the city, is another popular spot, known for its beautiful gardens and historic bandstand. Modesto’s agricultural heritage is celebrated each year with events like the Stanislaus County Fair. The city’s central location in the valley also makes it a gateway to California’s national parks, including Yosemite, which is just a short drive away.
Turlock
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 17.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 74,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 95380, 95382
- Latitude: 37.4947° N
- Longitude: 120.8466° W
City Location and History
Turlock is located in the southern part of Stanislaus County, approximately 15 miles south of Modesto. Founded in 1871 by prominent grain farmer John William Mitchell, Turlock began as a stop on the Southern Pacific Railroad. The city’s name comes from Turlough in County Mayo, Ireland, reflecting Mitchell’s Irish heritage. Originally an agricultural town, Turlock has grown into a diverse community with a strong educational and cultural foundation. The city is home to California State University, Stanislaus, which has contributed to Turlock’s development into a regional educational center. Turlock’s economy remains tied to agriculture, with almonds, poultry, and dairy products being key industries. However, the city has also expanded into manufacturing and retail, reflecting its steady growth.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Turlock is home to California State University, Stanislaus, which serves as a major educational institution for the region. Turlock High School and Pitman High School are the city’s primary secondary schools. The city is also known for landmarks such as the Carnegie Arts Center, which offers art exhibitions and cultural events, and the historic Turlock Community Theatre. Turlock Lake State Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and camping. The Stanislaus County Fairgrounds, located in Turlock, host the annual county fair, one of the largest in the region, celebrating the area’s agricultural heritage with exhibits, rides, and entertainment.
Ceres
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 8.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 50,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 95307, 95351
- Latitude: 37.5949° N
- Longitude: 120.9577° W
City Location and History
Ceres is located in the Central Valley, just south of Modesto, and is part of the Modesto metropolitan area. The city was named after Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, reflecting its rich agricultural roots. Founded in the late 19th century, Ceres has historically been a farming community, with its economy largely based on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of fruits, nuts, and dairy. Over the decades, Ceres has evolved from a rural town into a suburban city, with residential developments and commercial centers expanding its footprint. Despite this growth, Ceres has maintained a strong connection to its agricultural heritage, with numerous farms still operating in and around the city.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ceres is served by the Ceres Unified School District, with Ceres High School and Central Valley High School being the main secondary institutions. The city is home to several parks, including the popular Ceres River Bluff Regional Park, which offers sports fields, walking trails, and access to the Tuolumne River. The Daniel Whitmore House, built in 1870, is one of the city’s historic landmarks and serves as a museum showcasing Ceres’ history. Ceres celebrates its agricultural legacy with events like the Ceres Street Faire, which attracts visitors from across the region. The city’s close proximity to Modesto provides residents with easy access to additional amenities and services, while still retaining a small-town feel.
Oakdale
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 6.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 24,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 95361
- Latitude: 37.7666° N
- Longitude: 120.8479° W
City Location and History
Oakdale is located in the northeastern part of Stanislaus County, along the Stanislaus River, and is known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” The city was founded in 1871, coinciding with the construction of the Stockton & Visalia Railroad. Oakdale quickly became a vital center for agriculture and ranching, thanks to its fertile land and strategic location. The city’s Western heritage is deeply ingrained in its identity, with rodeos and ranching still playing a significant role in the local culture. Over time, Oakdale has grown while preserving its small-town atmosphere, making it a unique blend of old Western charm and modern living.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oakdale Joint Unified School District serves the city, with Oakdale High School being the primary secondary institution. The city is known for its annual Oakdale Rodeo, one of the largest and oldest rodeos in California, which draws participants and spectators from all over the country. Landmarks in Oakdale include the Oakdale Cowboy Museum, which celebrates the city’s ranching and rodeo history, and the Oakdale Cheese & Specialties, a popular local cheese factory that offers tours and tastings. The nearby Stanislaus River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. Oakdale’s strong sense of community and its rich cultural heritage make it a distinctive and welcoming place to live.
Riverbank
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 4.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 25,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 95367
- Latitude: 37.7363° N
- Longitude: 120.9355° W
City Location and History
Riverbank is located in the northern part of Stanislaus County, along the Stanislaus River, just east of Modesto. The city was established in 1896 as a railway town for the Santa Fe Railroad and was originally called Burneyville. Its name was later changed to Riverbank due to its proximity to the river. The city has grown steadily since its founding, transitioning from a small railroad town to a suburban community. Riverbank is known for its tight-knit community, with a mix of residential areas and agricultural lands surrounding the city. The city has embraced its heritage while fostering new growth, making it an attractive place for families and businesses.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Riverbank Unified School District oversees education in the area, with Riverbank High School serving as the main secondary school. The city is famous for its annual Cheese and Wine Exposition, a popular event that showcases local wines and cheeses and attracts visitors from across the region. Riverbank also features landmarks such as the historic downtown area, which has retained much of its original charm, and Jacob Myers Park, a riverside park offering picnic areas, walking trails, and access to the Stanislaus River. The city’s strategic location near Modesto provides residents with access to urban amenities while maintaining the relaxed atmosphere of a small town.
Map of Cities in Stanislaus County, CA
