Hemet, CA vs Ontario, CA
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Hemet is 24.9% cheaper than Ontario. With a cost index of 107 vs 142, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Hemet to Ontario should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Hemet is $1,432/month compared to $1,916/month in Ontario — a 25% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hemet is more affordable at $314,200 median vs $568,000.
Median household income in Hemet is $53,623 compared to $82,806 in Ontario (-35.2%). While Ontario is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Hemet spend roughly 32% of their income on rent, more than the 27.8% in Ontario. The Ontario ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.
Climate-wise, Ontario is notably warmer with an average of 66.8°F compared to 63.3°F in Hemet. Ontario receives more rainfall at 11.6" per year compared to 10.7" in Hemet.
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Rent by Bedroom Size
HUD Fair Market Rent (FY 2026) — metro area average
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)