I've never been "OMFG! I LOVE (snorgle) Modesto!!" but, for many years, it was ok...not bad, not great, and better than a few places we've lived over the years.
The past 5 or so years, the Mexican invasion has gotten out of hand...many (most?) of them illegal immigrants...bringing with them, high crime rates; car theft, robberies, shootings, drugs, etc., as well as becoming a huge burden on local services...not only the Welfare system, but on local clinics and hospitals where they receive services that they never pay for. Get in a car accident with one and you're fucked. Far too often, they don't have a driver's licence or insurance...then disappear back to Mexico rather than face the consequences.
We're getting tired of all the bullshit that goes along with living here. IF we could unload our house, we'd pack up and move...22 years in Kahleeforneeya is enough.