Folsom, CA vs Fontana, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Fontana is 21.3% cheaper than Folsom. With a cost index of 136 vs 165, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Fontana to Folsom should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Folsom is $2,279/month compared to $1,733/month in Fontana — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Fontana is more affordable at $558,500 median vs $702,200.

Median household income in Folsom is $139,263 compared to $98,187 in Fontana (+41.8%). While Folsom is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Folsom spend roughly 19.6% of their income on rent, less than the 21.2% in Fontana.

Climate-wise, Fontana is notably warmer with an average of 66.8°F compared to 63.4°F in Folsom. Folsom receives more rainfall at 19.2" per year compared to 11.6" in Fontana.