Carmichael, CA vs Fontana, CA

Carmichael, CA and Fontana, CA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.7% difference in their overall index. Carmichael scores 131 while Fontana scores 136 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Carmichael is $1,595/month compared to $1,733/month in Fontana — a 8% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Carmichael is more affordable at $541,500 median vs $558,500.

Median household income in Carmichael is $84,376 compared to $98,187 in Fontana (-14.1%). While Fontana is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Carmichael spend roughly 22.7% of their income on rent, more than the 21.2% in Fontana.