$493,438Average Value$294Average Price per Sq Ft4Homes For Sale
Why families like the small-town vibe and easy commute in Ceres
Just south of Modesto, Ceres is a suburban town close to the best of the Central Valley, surrounded by almond orchards to the south and urban sprawl to the north. It is perfect for those who want a slower pace of life, while still living close to California Route 99 and the region's farming, food and wine industries. With a more suburban, community-focused vibe, Ceres offers a downtown center with festivals, markets and a small-town atmosphere on the city's edge.
Ceres offers a small-town atmosphere.
Downtown Ceres has wall art created by local artists.
Agriculture is close to the valley's heart.
Almond orchards provide a significant industry in the region.
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Choose between homes close to the outdoors or downtown charm
In Ceres, you can find New Traditional, Spanish Revival, and ranch-style homes, which typically have more square footage than in South Modesto neighborhoods like Parklawn. The median construction year is 2003, meaning Ceres has a mix of older and newer homes. The median home price is in the lower $400,000s. Just outside the Ceres limits, you can find homes up to $1.6 million with acres of farmland. Overall, home prices decreased in 2025, which could make it a prime time to invest.
There are two neighborhoods you can reference. Mayfield features newer two-story homes near Ceres River Bluff Regional Park and River Oaks Golf Course. If you live in Downtown Ceres, you can easily get to a community center and plenty of locally owned shops and restaurants. "People would like to live there because of the proximity to Modesto. Ceres has a small-town feel, but it is close enough to primary services," says Kristopher Losole, a longtime area resident and real estate agent at PMZ Real Estate. "It is mostly families, and it may have a better value on pricing than a lot of areas."
Many neighborhoods have Spanish Revival architecture.
Properties feature custom landscaping and mature trees.
New Traditional styles built in the 21st century are available.
Choose a xeriscape landscaping design for your home.
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Why local schools and programs appeal to Ceres homebuyers
The Ceres Unified School District has about 14,000 students. Families can make requests to attend another school within CUSD or another district. All transfers are subject to approval, depending on lottery procedures for oversubscribed schools. Students can attend Caswell Elementary School before advancing to the highly rated Mae Hensley Junior High School and Ceres High School. The district provides dual language and after-school programs that help students succeed. Central Valley Christian Academy is a highly rated private school in Ceres serving kindergarten through 12th grade.
Central Valley Christian Academy is where students go for private education.
Walter White Elementary School is a public school option downtown.
Cesar Chavez Junior High serves the middle school level.
One of the district highlights is Central Valley High School.
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Dining options range from Italian bistros to Mexican favorites
Downtown Ceres has a variety of boutiques and restaurants. You can easily get to grocery stores and shopping areas all around town. Explore the vast retail and dining scene:
Try the American Italian Bistro, which serves pizza and calzones downtown.
Head to La Cascada Mexican Restaurant for authentic burritos and enchiladas on Mitchell Road.
Pick up groceries at Walmart Supercenter and Cost Less Food Company, both of which are a short distance from downtown.
Drive into Downtown Modesto for more restaurants, markets and nightlife.
Walmart at Gateway Center is where locals go to shop.
Have lunch downtown at Taqueria Lagos.
There are plenty of chain restaurants nearby.
Grab Thai food at Blú Lotus.
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Seasonal events and local parks make Ceres lively year-round
Smyrna Community Park features a skate park, playground and picnic tables. Visit the Ceres River Bluff Regional Park, which has five soccer fields and a walking trail around a scenic pond. In June, you must attend the Skies the Limit Hot Air Balloon Festival, an annual celebration featuring hot air balloons, live music and kids' activities at River Bluff Regional Park. The Ceres Farmers Market has local meat, produce and dairy from local farms. It takes place downtown in Whitmore Park, with live music on Tuesday evenings during the summer.
Take your skateboard to Smyrna Community Park.
Spend time with your furry friends at the Ceres Dog Park.
Play a round of golf at River Oaks Golf Course.
Check out Little League soccer at River Bluff Regional Park.
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Major highways and easy access to Modesto
Most employees in Ceres work in the agricultural industry, food and wine manufacturing or the public sector. Healthcare is also a significant industry, and the nearest emergency room is at Doctors Medical Center in Central Modesto, roughly a 12-minute drive. The StanRTA bus system makes stops along Magnolia Street. California Route 99 is a major highway connecting multiple cities to Ceres. Downtown Modesto is about 4 miles north, which is less than 10 minutes away. "The biggest reason people move to Ceres is that they want to be more removed, while still only a few miles away," Losole says. "Ceres and Modesto are connected. You don't see the separation, but it feels more detached." About 30 minutes north, the Stockton Metropolitan Airport provides direct passenger flights to U.S. cities.
Written By
Jackson Hardy
Photography Contributed By
Jeff Carnie
Video By
Michael Carey
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Diego Herra,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Ceres, CA sell after 34 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Ceres, CA over the last 12 months is $446,000, down 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Well-maintained home situated on a spacious corner lot, offering over 1,800 square feet of living space. The home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and an office that could serve as a potential 4th bedroom. Enjoy both separate living and family rooms, an open kitchen with an island, a cozy fireplace, an indoor laundry room, and an attached two-car garage. Recent upgrades include
Imagine pulling into your own quiet cul-de-sac, parking with ease, and knowing you've finally found a home that truly fits your lifestyle. Nestled on a spacious corner lot, this inviting single-story home offers the perfect blend of comfort, flexibility, and everyday convenience. From the moment you arrive, the extra-large driveway and dedicated RV access immediately set this property apart.
Spacious 3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Mobile Home in an Amenity-Rich Community Welcome home to this well-maintained 1440 sq ft, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom double-wide mobile home, ideally located in a beautifully kept park offering fantastic amenities for all ages. Residents enjoy a large community pool, playground, and a modern, well-appointed clubhouse perfect for gatherings and events. Conveniently
Great Investment Opportunity in Ceres!! Approx. 7.54 Acres along Highway 99 Exposure with Future Highway Commercial uses... Located at Rohde (Frontage Road) and Redwood off the Highly used Mitchell Exit. This Frontage property has over 600 feet of Visibility and Exposure to Highway 99. Many New Commercial Businesses at the Mitchell Exit with a New 4 Lane Roadway being Constructed. Furthermore,
Well-maintained home situated on a spacious corner lot, offering over 1,800 square feet of living space. The home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and an office that could serve as a potential 4th bedroom. Enjoy both separate living and family rooms, an open kitchen with an island, a cozy fireplace, an indoor laundry room, and an attached two-car garage. Recent upgrades include
3 Acres of Highly Desirable CPU Zoning. This Investment Property has a CPU-Conditional Use Permit for Heavy Truck Dismantling Yard, completely fenced. 2.2 Acre Yard with 2 Metal Shops totaling 3000sf with office space of 360sf. The Current Owner would like to rent back this property back at $6000 per Month for 2 years. There's a possibility of sharing the truck yard space of 6000-8000sf with the
Imagine pulling into your own quiet cul-de-sac, parking with ease, and knowing you've finally found a home that truly fits your lifestyle. Nestled on a spacious corner lot, this inviting single-story home offers the perfect blend of comfort, flexibility, and everyday convenience. From the moment you arrive, the extra-large driveway and dedicated RV access immediately set this property apart.
15.2 Acres of Almonds, with small mobile home. Possible future residential. L shaped lot fronting on Service Rd and Moore rd. Moore rd is the city limit boundary of Ceres. New Walmart and other commercial businesses located in close proximity. Looking for offers !!
Proudly offered by its original owner, this beautifully cared-for tri-level home blends space, comfort, and endless possibility. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and 2,053 sq. ft. of living space, this property sits on a spacious corner lot just under acrecomplete with RV access and parking, making it ideal for families, hobbyists, or travelers. Step inside and feel the warmth of a home that's
Welcome to 5th Street Downtown Ceres, possibilities are endless here. The Downtown Specific Plan of Ceres has this lot as Community Commercial Downtown 4th street Mixed use.
Price Reduction!! Step into this gorgeous 2 story home that seamlessly blends comfort, style, and functionality. Located in a desirable neighborhood, this beautifully maintained 4 bd, 2.5-bath residence offers everything you need for refined living and entertaining.As you enter, you're greeted by elegant tile flooring that flows throughout the main living areas, enhancing both beauty and
Welcome to 810 River Raft Ct! This beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bath home with an additional room downstairs is ready for its next chapter offering the perfect blend of comfort, space, and value in one of Modesto's most desirable neighborhoods.The layout is thoughtfully designed, with a bedroom and FULL bathroom downstairs ideal for guests, extended family, or added convenience. You'll also find an
11.28 Acres, Ranchette ! Close proximity to new Walmart and other commercial businesses . This property has future development possibilities .Home is 2300+ 3/3 with a pool and outbuildings. Lifetime estate included in sale.
Welcome to this brand-new 2026 Skyline manufactured home offering 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with modern style throughout. This move-in-ready home features a beautiful kitchen with stainless steel appliances, ample cabinetry, and generous storage space. The open layout is complemented by modern fixtures and finishes, creating a bright and inviting living environment. Enjoy the convenience of an
Fantastic Investment Opportunity!! 100% occupancy with steady rent increases. For 1st time since 28 years, this 6 Bedroom 4 Bath DUPLEX located in the heart of Ceres! Both are 3 bedroom 2 bathroom units that boasts a spacious living room, kitchen, & backyard. New AC/Heater. All have washer /dryer location inside. Roof replaced in last 10 years. NO HOA fees! Great location, great rents, near
Pine Ridge is an exclusive, gated garden style apartment community conveniently close to schools, shops and restaurants, and major freeways. Residents can choose between two lifestyle-friendly and spacious two bedroom plans. The two-bedroom/one-bath plan encompasses 848 square feet, while a second two-bedroom plan offers a second bathroom and flexes to a spacious 970 square feet. Click below to
Picture this: you've just prepped your favorite meal and you're about to start cooking, when disaster strikes - you forgot one ingredient! Not just any ingredient, but the one that the dish simply can't do without (perhaps nachos without chips, or chicken wings without ranch). Now picture living in your 1 or 2-bedroom apartment in Village Ceres, where you can head next door to Walmart Supercenter
2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment available now! Features a bright living room, updated kitchen, and plenty of storage. In-unit laundry adds convenience. Located near shops, dining, and public transportation, this apartment is move-in ready.
2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment available now! Features a bright living room, updated kitchen, and plenty of storage. In-unit laundry adds convenience. Located near shops, dining, and public transportation, this apartment is move-in ready.
2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment available now! Features a bright living room, updated kitchen, and plenty of storage. In-unit laundry adds convenience. Located near shops, dining, and public transportation, this apartment is move-in ready.
2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment available now! Features a bright living room, updated kitchen, and plenty of storage. In-unit laundry adds convenience. Located near shops, dining, and public transportation, this apartment is move-in ready.
2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment available now! Features a bright living room, updated kitchen, and plenty of storage. In-unit laundry adds convenience. Located near shops, dining, and public transportation, this apartment is move-in ready.
2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment available now! Features a bright living room, updated kitchen, and plenty of storage. In-unit laundry adds convenience. Located near shops, dining, and public transportation, this apartment is move-in ready.
2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment available now! Features a bright living room, updated kitchen, and plenty of storage. In-unit laundry adds convenience. Located near shops, dining, and public transportation, this apartment is move-in ready.
2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment available now! Features a bright living room, updated kitchen, and plenty of storage. In-unit laundry adds convenience. Located near shops, dining, and public transportation, this apartment is move-in ready.
2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment available now! Features a bright living room, updated kitchen, and plenty of storage. In-unit laundry adds convenience. Located near shops, dining, and public transportation, this apartment is move-in ready.
2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment available now! Features a bright living room, updated kitchen, and plenty of storage. In-unit laundry adds convenience. Located near shops, dining, and public transportation, this apartment is move-in ready.
Named after the Roman Goddess of Agriculture, Downtown Ceres offers proximity to several green spaces, a community center and small-town shopping. Surrounded by rural farmland to its east and a bustling city to its west, Downtown is the heartbeat of the small town of Ceres in Stanislaus County. Located in California's San Joaquin Valley, it's also a thriving agriculture hub just 6 miles from Modesto. "It's an affordable area that is smaller than Modesto but bigger than Keyes," says Jessica Barrios, Broker and owner of Barrios Realty Consultants and resident of Modesto. <br><br>Primarily receiving water from wells, Ceres has dealt with a long history of contaminated water driven by cross-connection and backflow. However, the Ceres Wastewater Treatment aims to produce 15 million gallons daily, treating water drawn from the Tuolumne River and groundwater from Turlock. It is home to the new Stanislaus County Agricultural Center, which oversees ordinances related to pesticides, export of agricultural products and certification.<br><br>With road names like Magnolia Street, Oasis Drive and Palm Avenue, this urban community, located near several parks, offers glimpses of nature. Neutral-colored L-shaped ranch-style homes line the maple and oak tree-shaded sidewalks, accentuated with double-car garages. Wooden fences enclose the backyards, complemented by inground pools and gazebos embracing the Californian heat. Prices range from $280,000 for homes starting at 1,000 square feet to $445,000 for renovated homes. <br><br>Students may be part of the Ceres Unified School District, with several schools within walking distance of homes. These include Walter White Elementary, Argus and Endeavor High and Lucas Elementary, all rated with a C-plus, according to Niche. Middle schoolers may attend Blaker-Kinser Junior High School, which Niche ranks with a C, prioritizing college awareness, registering students for Californiacolleges.edu, and aiding students in post-secondary education success. The high school consists of Argus High and Endeavor Alternative Center, accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. <br><br>The Ceres Community Center was created to unite neighbors, hosting classes for families of all ages and spanning two stories. Events include educational programs, Zumba, cooking classes, Loteria and annual ones like the Spring Eggstravaganza. Close to home, Ceres-Whitemore Park, near the highway and Roeding Heights Park, keep the neighborhood kids entertained with their playgrounds and picnic gazebos. A mile from the recreational center, Smyrna Community Park is one of Ceres' most visited green spaces, which is no surprise due to the George Costa Fields, where families play baseball and practice tricks at the skate park. It is also just 3 miles from Ceres River Bluff Regional Park. <br><br>The downtown area is a quaint, walkable district but a shadow of what it once was, with many empty storefronts. Along 4th street, Hand Creations Flower Shop, Ceres Drug Store and Delhart's Home Furnishing keep foot traffic peddling. American Italian Bistro plates up classic Tuscan comfort foods in its cozy dining room. Other eateries include Sam's Café and Loza Kitchen & Bar, dishing out a curated menu of tapas and crepes. Just 2 miles from 4th street is Ceres Plaza Shopping Center, and 10 miles away is the Vintage Faire Mall. Residents benefit from Walmart and Save Mart Supermarkets, which is next to Planet Fitness. <br><br>California 99 bisects the community and is less than 6 miles from California 132 and California 108. "It's nice because it's primarily residential, and you can get to Modesto and Turlock very quickly," Barrios says. And there are bus stops peppered throughout, operated by the StanRTA or "The S". It is also under 4 miles from the Modesto City–County Airport. Ceres Care Center is right in the community but is 8 miles from the larger Memorial Medical Center in Modesto. <br><br>At Ceres-Whitemore Park, it isn't unusual to hear the velvet riffsof guitars and local singers during the Concerts in the Park, a weekly series during June and July. Then there's the Ceres Street Fair, flooding with neighbors browsing through vendors with local talent. 3 miles away, El Rematito Crows Landing Flea Market buzzes with locals during the night market. Diamond Bar Arena is 3 miles south, the site of Caddle roping and barrel racing. The Skies the Limit Hot Air Balloon Festival began in 2023, elevating residents for panoramic city views amid the clouds.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Ceres Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
48,768
Median Age
33
Population Density
161 ppl/acre
Population under 18
30.4%
Above the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
11.9%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$71,434
Below the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$85,560
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
75.1%
Below the national average
89%
College Graduates
10.9%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
2.5%
% Population in Labor Force
60.6%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
12''
Average Winter Low Temperature
39°F
Average Summer High Temperature
95°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®®
57/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®®
80/ 100
Some Transit
Transit Score®®
31/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
