Fontana, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA: 146 vs 172

$1,733/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 20%

$98,187/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$97,410/yr ≈ Same

$558,500 ↓ 18%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 23%

$1,990/mo ↓ 7%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 7%

211,921

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fontana, CA and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 146 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $351/month cheaper in Fontana, saving renters about $4,212/year.

Median household income is $777/year higher in Fontana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fontana is $558,500 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fontana vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Fontana or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fontana is cheaper to live in with an index of 146 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fontana and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Fontana is $1,733/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $351/month.

Which city has higher income, Fontana or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $98,187 in Fontana and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $777/year higher in Fontana.

How do taxes compare between California and California?

Both cities are in California and share the same state tax rates: 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Fontana or Santa Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Fontana has a cost index of 146 with median rent of $1,733/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Fontana, CA vs Santa Rosa, CA (2026)

Fontana

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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