City Profile
Fontana, California
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Fontana is a rapidly expanding city located in the Inland Empire region of San Bernardino County, California. Founded in 1913 by Azariel Blanchard Miller as a rural agricultural community, the city experienced a major industrial transformation during World War II when Henry J. Kaiser established a massive steel mill. Today, Fontana has evolved into a vibrant suburban hub and a premier logistics center for Southern California, blending its blue-collar industrial heritage with modern residential developments. People frequently move to Fontana for its relative housing affordability compared to coastal Los Angeles, family-friendly neighborhoods, and strategic proximity to major regional job corridors.
California is a diverse and populous state known for its significant economic output, ranking as the fourth largest economy globally if it were an independent nation. Its economy is driven by major industries such as technology (especially in Silicon Valley), real estate, finance, professional services, manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. Living in California generally entails a high cost of living, particularly for housing, which is significantly above the national average. The state boasts a varied climate, ranging from a Mediterranean-like environment with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters in coastal and central areas, to hotter, drier inland summers and colder, snowier conditions at higher altitudes. The lifestyle often emphasizes outdoor activities, health and wellness, and a diverse cultural experience, though it can also involve considerable traffic in major urban centers.
How this 61/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 30% | 20.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 106.0 | 36.3 | 25% | 9.1 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $102,821 Income needed to live here: $65,000 Unemployment rate: 5.1% | 79.5 | 20% | 15.9 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 1.15% Job growth rate: 2.2% | 58.9 | 15% | 8.8 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 10% | 7.0 |
| Overall score | 61.2 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (ungrounded) (q=55, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
11 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Performance
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Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Fontana sits slightly above the national average, largely driven by California's elevated housing, energy, and transportation expenses. While it is pricier than the U.S. average, Fontana remains notably more affordable than neighboring coastal metropolitan areas like Los Angeles or Orange County. Everyday goods, groceries, and healthcare services hover near typical regional levels, but housing expenses and state taxes exert the greatest upward pressure on household budgets.
Income
Salary Insights
Fontana's economy is anchored by manufacturing, logistics, transportation, and wholesale trade, capitalising on its central position within the Inland Empire's distribution network. Major employers include California Steel Industries, Kaiser Permanente, and various national fulfillment and distribution operations supporting the region's robust supply chain. While heavy industry and warehousing drive traditional job growth, healthcare and administrative support sectors are expanding rapidly as the local population grows.
The average salary in Fontana is $72,000 per year. You would need approximately $65,000 to live comfortably.
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Mobility
Transport
Fontana is heavily car-dependent, positioned strategically near major regional arteries including Interstate 10, State Route 210, and Interstate 15. Commuters rely extensively on private vehicles to navigate the Inland Empire and greater Los Angeles job markets, resulting in typical suburban traffic patterns. Public transit options include local bus routes and a Metrolink commuter rail station that connects residents directly to regional employment hubs.
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Community Q&A
Questions about Fontana
What people ask about living in and moving to Fontana, California.
What should I know about moving into Fontana from out of state?
When moving to Fontana, consider the higher cost of living, especially rent. Plan for a 6% increase in overall expenses. Research local utility providers, register for city services, and familiarize yourself with the public transportation routes. It’s also wise to explore neighborhood safety data and school district information before finalizing a location.
Is Fontana a safe place to live?
Fontana has a safety score of 68 out of 100, which is slightly below the national average. Crime rates are moderate, with some neighborhoods experiencing higher incidents of property crime. Residents typically report feeling safe in community centers and parks. Checking neighborhood crime statistics on the city’s public safety portal and talking to local residents can give a clearer picture of specific areas.
How does the cost of living in Fontana compare to the national average?
Fontana’s cost of living index is 106, meaning it is 6% higher than the national average. Housing, food, and transportation costs are slightly above average, while utilities and healthcare are closer to national levels. When budgeting, expect a modest increase in overall expenses, especially for rent and groceries. Use local cost calculators or the city’s official website for detailed breakdowns.
What is the average rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Fontana?
The average rent in Fontana is about $2,400 per month for a typical apartment. Prices can vary based on location, amenities, and building age. For the most accurate and up‑to‑date listings, check online rental platforms or contact local real‑estate agents who specialize in the area.
How are the public schools in Fontana rated?
Public schools in Fontana receive mixed ratings; some schools perform well on standardized tests while others face challenges. Parents often review school performance reports available through the state’s education department website or local school district publications. Visiting schools and speaking with administrators can also provide insight into classroom environments and extracurricular offerings.
What healthcare facilities are in Fontana?
The city hosts several medical centers offering primary care, emergency services, and specialty treatments. These facilities are staffed by board‑certified physicians and provide a range of services from routine check‑ups to advanced diagnostics. To find a provider that meets your needs, use the city’s health services directory or the state’s medical board listings.
What are the common industries that hire in Fontana?
Fontana’s economy is diversified with strong manufacturing, logistics, and distribution sectors. There are also growing opportunities in retail, healthcare, and services. Job seekers can explore local employment listings through the city’s official employment portal or regional job boards that aggregate openings in these industries.
What public transportation options are available in Fontana?
Fontana is served by a regional bus network that connects the city to neighboring communities and major highways. The bus routes provide access to nearby rail stations and commercial centers. For schedules, fare information, and route maps, consult the city’s transportation department or the regional transit authority’s website.
What are popular recreational spots in Fontana?
Fontana features a variety of parks, sports fields, and community centers that host seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and outdoor concerts. The city’s recreation department organizes youth sports leagues and adult fitness classes. Check the city’s events calendar for upcoming activities and park amenities.
What is the average salary in Fontana?
The average salary in Fontana is $72,000 per year. This figure reflects the typical earnings across all industries in the city. When negotiating a new position, consider this average along with the cost of living index of 106 to gauge how far your salary will stretch locally.
Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Fontana? Add your own.
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