Fontana, CA vs Fresno, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Fresno is 29.3% cheaper than Fontana. With a cost index of 105 vs 136, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Fresno to Fontana should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Fontana is $1,733/month compared to $1,324/month in Fresno — a 31% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Fresno is more affordable at $348,500 median vs $558,500.

Median household income in Fontana is $98,187 compared to $66,804 in Fresno (+47%). 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 Fontana spend roughly 21.2% of their income on rent, less than the 23.8% in Fresno.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (66.8°F vs 65°F). Fontana receives more rainfall at 11.6" per year compared to 11" in Fresno.