Cost of Living: Ontario, CA vs Downey, CA (2026)

Ontario

California
152
VS

Downey

California
169

Ontario is 10% cheaper than Downey.

$1,916/mo ↑ 1%
Median Rent
$1,892/mo ↓ 1%
$82,806/yr ↓ 5%
Median Income
$87,400/yr ↑ 6%
$568,000 ↓ 22%
Home Value
$728,500 ↑ 28%
$1,967/mo ↓ 2%
Owner Costs
$1,997/mo ↑ 2%
178,347
Population
111,793

Tax Comparison

13.3%
Income Tax
13.3%
7.25%
State Sales Tax
7.25%
0.71%
Property Tax
0.71%

Affordability

27.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Ontario, CA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 152 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $4,594/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Ontario is $568,000 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Ontario vs Downey — common questions

Is Ontario or Downey cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Ontario is cheaper to live in with an index of 152 compared to 169 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Ontario and Downey?
Median rent in Ontario is $1,916/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $24/month.
Which city has higher income, Ontario or Downey?
Median household income is $82,806 in Ontario and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $4,594/year higher in Downey.
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 Ontario or Downey?
It depends on your priorities. Ontario has a cost index of 152 with median rent of $1,916/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Ontario details → View Downey details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Ontario and Downey

Ontario vs. Aurora Ontario vs. Eugene Ontario vs. Chattanooga Ontario vs. Elk Grove Ontario vs. Fort Lauderdale Ontario vs. Santa Rosa Downey vs. Peoria Downey vs. Murrieta Downey vs. Pompano Beach Downey vs. Pueblo Downey vs. Lansing Downey vs. Miami Gardens