Charlotte, NC vs Fontana, CA: 108 vs 146

$1,504/mo ↓ 13%

Median Rent

$1,733/mo ↑ 15%

$78,438/yr ↓ 20%

Median Income

$98,187/yr ↑ 25%

$351,500 ↓ 37%

Home Value

$558,500 ↑ 59%

$1,487/mo ↓ 25%

Owner Costs

$1,990/mo ↑ 34%

886,283

Population

211,921

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Charlotte, NC and Fontana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 108 and 146 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $229/month cheaper in Charlotte, saving renters about $2,748/year.

Median household income is $19,749/year higher in Fontana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Charlotte is $351,500 compared to $558,500 in Fontana.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Charlotte slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Charlotte vs Fontana — common questions

Is Charlotte or Fontana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Charlotte is cheaper to live in with an index of 108 compared to 146 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Charlotte and Fontana?

Median rent in Charlotte is $1,504/month and in Fontana it's $1,733/month — a difference of $229/month.

Which city has higher income, Charlotte or Fontana?

Median household income is $78,438 in Charlotte and $98,187 in Fontana. Median household income is $19,749/year higher in Fontana.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and California?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Charlotte or Fontana?

It depends on your priorities. Charlotte has a cost index of 108 with median rent of $1,504/mo, while Fontana has a cost index of 146 with rent of $1,733/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Charlotte, NC vs Fontana, CA (2026)

Charlotte

Fontana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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