Fontana, CA vs Indio, CA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Indio is 18.6% cheaper than Fontana. With a cost index of 115 vs 136, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Indio 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 $1,392/month in Indio — a 25% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Indio is more affordable at $424,700 median vs $558,500.

Median household income in Fontana is $98,187 compared to $78,709 in Indio (+24.7%). 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 21.2% in Indio.

Climate-wise, Indio is notably warmer with an average of 72.5°F compared to 66.8°F in Fontana. Fontana receives more rainfall at 11.6" per year compared to 3" in Indio.