Downey, CA vs Fontana, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Fontana is 15.7% cheaper than Downey. With a cost index of 136 vs 157, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Fontana to Downey should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Downey is $1,892/month compared to $1,733/month in Fontana — a 9% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Fontana is more affordable at $558,500 median vs $728,500.

Median household income in Downey is $87,400 compared to $98,187 in Fontana (-11%). Fontana offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Downey spend roughly 26% of their income on rent, more than the 21.2% in Fontana.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (64.9°F vs 66.8°F). Downey receives more rainfall at 12" per year compared to 11.6" in Fontana.