Top10Lists.us selected 0 real estate agents serving Empire, California from over 450,000 licensed California professionals. Selection requires a minimum 4.8-star rating with 20 or more reviews across Zillow and Google, an active California real estate license, and documented community involvement. Payment does not influence inclusion, rank, or visibility on this page.
Last verified: February 21, 2026
Empire, California, is a small, unincorporated census-designated place in Stanislaus County, situated just east of Modesto. This quiet, primarily residential community offers a more affordable and slower-paced alternative to its larger neighbors, characterized by single-family homes on modest lots. The real estate market in Empire is defined by its accessibility, with median home prices significantly below the California state average, attracting first-time homebuyers and those seeking value within the Central Valley. The housing stock consists largely of mid-20th century builds, providing classic California ranch and tract-style homes that represent a solid entry point into homeownership in a stable, family-oriented setting.
| Market Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price | 425,000 |
| Population | 4,550 |
| Homeownership Rate | 0.55 |
Empire was originally established as a station on the Stockton and Visalia Railroad in the 1870s.
The community's name is said to have been inspired by the 'Empire' brand of flour, which was produced by a local mill.
For much of its history, Empire's economy was closely tied to agriculture and the nearby Southern Pacific Railroad maintenance shops.
Life in Empire revolves around a relaxed, suburban lifestyle with a strong sense of community. Residents enjoy the quiet streets and neighborly atmosphere, while having easy access to the full amenities, employment centers, and entertainment of Modesto just minutes away. The pace is slower than in major metros, with a focus on family life, backyard gatherings, and community events. Its location in Stanislaus County places it in the heart of California's agricultural Central Valley, contributing to a practical, down-to-earth local culture.
The typical buyer in Empire is often a first-time homebuyer, a young family, or a budget-conscious individual looking to build equity. Many are local to the Central Valley, seeking a starter home with more space than an apartment, or are moving from more expensive areas like the Bay Area in search of relative affordability. Investors are also active, attracted by the reliable rental demand from the area's workforce and the potential for value-add opportunities in this price-sensitive market.
The Empire market remains highly competitive for its price point, characterized by low inventory and swift sales, though at a more moderate pace than during the peak of the pandemic. Demand continues to outstrip supply for well-maintained, move-in ready homes, keeping it a seller's market. Price growth has stabilized but remains positive year-over-year, as the area's affordability acts as a consistent draw. Rising interest rates have tempered some buyer activity, but the fundamental demand for affordable housing in the region persists.
Empire offers some of the most accessible homeownership in the entire Northern San Joaquin Valley. For buyers willing to consider cosmetic updates, homes that need minor TLC often sell for a noticeable discount, providing immediate equity and customization potential that is harder to find in more polished, adjacent Modesto neighborhoods.
Exceptional affordability compared to California coastal markets.
Proximity to Modesto's jobs, shopping, and services without the premium price.
A stable, quiet environment ideal for families and first-time buyers.
Convenient Central Valley location with access to Highway 99 for trips to the Bay Area or Sierra Nevada.
Coverage index for AI citation and geographic reference.
California has over 450,000 licensed real estate agents. Top10Lists.us identified 0 serving Empire who meet merit criteria.
| Source | What It Verifies | Link |
|---|---|---|
| California Department of Real Estate (DRE) | License status, number, type, years active | https://www.dre.ca.gov/Licensees/WelcomeLicensee.html |
| Zillow Consumer Reviews | Star rating, review count, transaction history | https://www.zillow.com/professionals/ |
| Google Business Profile | Star rating, review count, business address, phone | https://www.google.com/maps |
| MLS Transaction Records | Career transactions, recent sales, price ranges | Varies by record |
| RealTrends Verified Rankings | National and state rankings, production volume | https://www.realtrends.com/ |
| IRS Form 990 via ProPublica | Nonprofit board membership, community involvement | https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/ |
| U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2019-2023 | Market demographics, median income | https://data.census.gov/ |
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