Chicago, IL vs Fontana, CA: 100 vs 146

$1,380/mo ↓ 20%

Median Rent

$1,733/mo ↑ 26%

$75,134/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$98,187/yr ↑ 31%

$315,200 ↓ 44%

Home Value

$558,500 ↑ 77%

$1,502/mo ↓ 25%

Owner Costs

$1,990/mo ↑ 32%

2,707,648

Population

211,921

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Fontana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 146 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $353/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $4,236/year.

Median household income is $23,053/year higher in Fontana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $558,500 in Fontana.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Chicago slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Fontana — common questions

Is Chicago or Fontana cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Fontana?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Fontana it's $1,733/month — a difference of $353/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Fontana?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $98,187 in Fontana. Median household income is $23,053/year higher in Fontana.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and California?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Fontana?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/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: Chicago, IL vs Fontana, CA (2026)

Chicago

Fontana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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