Modesto

Modesto is located in California's Central Valley, on highway 99, roughly equidistant between Sacramento and Fresno. Founded in 1870 (as Ralston) by the Central Pacific Railroad, Modesto experienced overnight growth when settlers in towns off the railtracks moved their businesses to the new hub. At 188,800 people, Modesto is the largest city in Stanislaus County as well as the county seat.