Is Modesto Safe for Travel in 2024?

Safety Score

United States : Safety by City

Modesto is the county seat and largest city of Stanislaus County, California, United States. With a population of approximately 201,165 at the 2010 census, it is the 18th largest city in California and forms part of the Modesto–Merced combined statistical area.

Warnings & Dangers in Modesto

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Modesto is an unsafe city to travel to, and tourists are advised to be as careful as possible. At nightfall, it is better not to walk on the streets. Avoid areas far from the city center.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

Public transport in Modesto can be unsafe: pickpocketing is common on buses. Taxi is a convenient and safe way to move around the city, but use only licensed taxi services.

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

There are many pickpockets in Modesto, so be extra careful in crowded places. Be careful with those who offer or ask for help - they may be scammers who want to rob you.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW

There are no major natural disasters in Modesto. In any case, check the weather before coming here and follow local authorities' safety precautions.

MUGGING RISK : HIGH

Serious robberies and armed attacks are not uncommon in Modesto. It is especially dangerous if you are walking late at night in poorly lit areas of the city. Do not carry valuables and important documents with you. In the event of an attack on you, give the criminals what they ask to save their lives.

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

There is no high risk of terrorism in Modesto. However, it can occur here due to intolerant sentiments in local society and the global threat of terrorists by forgiving the United States. Stay up to date on your trip to this city.

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

Scam in Modesto is usually related to telemarketing and rarely involves tourists. Stay alert at restaurants and when shopping, and double-check your change and bills.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : HIGH

Women traveling alone are advised to avoid Modesto. It is not safe for a single tourist of either gender to travel here. Women are an easy target for crime here.

How Safe Is Modesto for Tourists?

Modesto is considered to be an unsafe city for travel.

The crime index is quite high here.

The main problems are related to the theft of belongings, car theft, assault, drug trafficking, and corruption.

Most of the problems in the city are due to drug trafficking.

Drugs cause the most serious crimes and vandalism.

The region has a large low-income population, which also contributes to numerous crimes.

If you are traveling to Modesto, you should avoid areas far from the city center, walk-in dimly lit streets in the evening, and avoid talking to the homeless and beggars.

In the city, you need to be extremely careful and always watch your belongings.

Do not leave bags, wallets, and phones unattended.

Be considerate of those who ask for or offer help.

These could be scammers.

If you are traveling by car, always lock it when leaving, leave nothing inside, and park in guarded parking lots.

It is better to keep important documents and valuables in the hotel safe.

It is better to have a minimum of cash and jewelry with you.

In summer, the city is unbearably hot.

Keep this in mind if you are traveling to Modesto at this time of year.

Carry drinking water with you and stay in the shade more often.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Modesto?

Visitors to the United States must obtain a visa from one of the United States diplomatic missions unless they come from visa-exempt countries or Visa Waiver Program countries. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in Modesto?

The United States dollar is the official currency of the United States. It has a sign: $ and a code: USD. Also, it abbreviated US$. One dollar is divided into 100 cents (Symbol: ¢).

How's the Weather like in Modesto?

In Modesto, the summers are hot, arid, and clear, and the winters are short, cold, wet, and partly cloudy. The best times to visit Modesto for ideal weather are mid-March to June and September to November

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Modesto?

Modesto City-County Airport (Harry Sham Field) is located 3 km southeast of Modesto in Stanislaus County, California.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Modesto?

In Modesto, it is ideal to go for a bike ride in the surrounding area, visit Modesto Central Plaza, taste local cuisine on gastronomic tours, and walk-in local parks.

Is the Water in Modesto Safe to Drink?

The tap water in Modesto is of good quality, but drinking is not recommended. Use bottled water or boil tap water.

Is Uber Safe in Modesto?

There is an Uber taxi in Modesto. The fare will depend on trip length and time of the day. You can call a taxi from the app on a smartphone.