The City of Oakdale is located in Stanislaus County, California,  approximately 15 miles northeast of Modesto at the base of the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. With a current city population of approximately 19,300, Oakdale takes pride in its small town atmosphere and is a balanced community of residential and commercial properties with a full range of services, shopping and recreation.

Oakdale enjoys a moderate climate throughout the year with winter temperatures ranging from the mid 30's to the high 60's and summer temperatures from the 70's to the low 100's.

Oakdale offers a variety of housing options from established neighborhoods to new subdivisions currently under construction. Homes with acreage are available just outside city limits.

The Oakdale Joint Unified School District has four elementary schools, the newest opened fall of 2005. Along with excellence in academic pursuits, students through high school in Oakdale receive the additional benefits of music and sports programs, along with club activities and competitions like the Academic Decathlon.

Oakdale is the gateway to Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada foothills from Highway 120. The Stanislaus River winds through town offering opportunities for water sports and fishing. Nearby lakes are popular destinations for boating and water skiing. Camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, and skiing are available within an hour's drive in the nearby Sierras. Several community theater companies also thrive in the surrounding area.

In-city recreation includes an 18-hole country club golf course, and numerous city and recreational parks. Oakdale hosts a professional Rodeo the second weekend in April, and the Oakdale Chocolate Festival the third weekend in May each year.