Fontana, CA vs Hemet, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Hemet is 27.3% cheaper than Fontana. With a cost index of 107 vs 136, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Hemet 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 $1,432/month in Hemet — a 21% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hemet is more affordable at $314,200 median vs $558,500.

Median household income in Fontana is $98,187 compared to $53,623 in Hemet (+83.1%). 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 Fontana spend roughly 21.2% of their income on rent, less than the 32% in Hemet. The Fontana ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, Fontana is notably warmer with an average of 66.8°F compared to 63.3°F in Hemet. Fontana receives more rainfall at 11.6" per year compared to 10.7" in Hemet.