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Moving to Fontana, CA

Complete 2026 relocation guide with costs, neighborhoods, and quality of life data

Quick Summary (TL;DR)

**Moving to Fontana, CA:** Average 2BR move costs $1,886 inbound. Cost of living is 37% above the national average (index: 136.9). The city has moderate demand (standard market rates) for moving services. Population: 214,547. Safety rating: very safe (85/100). Key industries: Logistics and Distribution, Manufacturing, Healthcare.

Data Sources: MoveSmart_City_Analysis_2026, Census_ACS_2024, BLS_Employment_2026
215K
Population
$1,886
Avg Move Cost
136.9
Cost Index
85/100
Safety Score
$1.8K
Avg 1BR Rent
Last Updated: 2026-04-19Prepared by MoveSmart Team
Street map of Fontana, CA centered on downtown, showing major roads and neighborhoods.
Map data: OpenStreetMap via Mapbox.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about moving to Fontana

The average 2-bedroom move TO Fontana costs $1,886, with studios around $943 and 4+ bedroom homes running $3,772+. Off-peak timing often yields lower rates on this corridor.

MoveSmart Rate Database, AMSA 2025
Data Sources: MoveSmart_FAQ_Database, Census_ACS_2024, FMCSA_2026

Economy & Job Market

Employment, industries, and opportunities in Fontana

Fontana's job market draws on Logistics and Distribution and Manufacturing. The median household income of $85,839 exceeds the national median.

Median Household Income
$85,839
Above national median
Key Industries
5
Logistics and Distribution, Manufacturing, Healthcare
Major Employers
5
Kaiser Permanente, Amazon
Industry Landscape

The local economy is driven by Logistics and Distribution, Manufacturing, Healthcare, with additional opportunities in Retail and Automotive/Motorsports. Major employers include Kaiser Permanente, Amazon, Fontana Unified School District, Target.

Logistics and DistributionManufacturingHealthcareRetailAutomotive/Motorsports
Major Employers
Kaiser Permanente
Amazon
Fontana Unified School District
Target
UPS
Job Seeker Tips for Fontana
  • •Healthcare is a major employer - research hospital systems and clinics in your specialty.
  • •Research major employers like Kaiser Permanente before relocating for better job prospects.
  • •Network with Fontana professionals on LinkedIn 2-3 months before your move.
  • •Check job boards specific to CA for local opportunities not listed nationally.
Data Sources: BLS_Employment_2026, Census_ACS_2024, LinkedIn_Economic_Graph

Neighborhoods in Fontana

Finding the right area for your lifestyle

Fontana is home to a diverse array of neighborhoods, each offering a distinct living experience. Southridge is a well-established, family-friendly community known for its mature landscaping and strong local ties, often featuring spacious single-family homes. Northgate features a mix of newer residential developments and convenient access to modern amenities, making it popular for growing families seeking contemporary living. Hunter's Ridge stands out as a master-planned community nestled in the foothills, providing residents with scenic views, well-maintained common areas, and a tranquil suburban atmosphere often governed by community associations. Sierra Lakes offers an upscale ambiance, centered around its golf course, with beautifully kept homes and easy access to a variety of retail and dining options, appealing to those seeking a refined lifestyle. Summit Heights boasts contemporary homes, often with impressive views from its elevated positions, appealing to those seeking newer construction and modern designs. Cypress provides a more central Fontana experience with a blend of housing types and established infrastructure, offering convenience and accessibility. Heritage Village is a welcoming, family-oriented community characterized by its numerous local parks and recreational opportunities, fostering a strong sense of community. Additionally, the area around Jurupa Hills offers a mix of residential and open spaces, appealing to those who enjoy proximity to nature and outdoor activities.

Average 1BR Rent
$1,794
Monthly
Average 2BR Rent
$2,332
Monthly
Walkability Score
54/100
Somewhat Walkable
Neighborhood Selection Tips
    Data Sources: Zillow_Rent_Index_2026, WalkScore_API, Census_ACS_2024

    Local Moving Challenges in Fontana

    City-specific obstacles and how to handle them

    Fontana's smaller footprint generally makes moving logistics more straightforward than major metros. However, some residential areas may have narrow streets or limited truck access that requires planning.

    Parking & Permit Requirements

    Contact Fontana city hall or your building management about moving truck parking permits. Most apartment complexes and HOAs have their own requirements including elevator reservations, proof of insurance, and sometimes move-in deposits. Schedule your parking permit at least 5 business days before your move date.

    Neighborhood Moving Tips

    • Ask your new Fontana neighbors about moving day logistics specific to your building or street. Local knowledge prevents surprises.
    • Join Fontana community groups online before your move to get neighborhood-specific tips from residents.

    Quality of Life in Fontana

    Safety, walkability, commute, and environment

    Overall Quality of Life Score
    65/100

    Fontana scores 65/100 on our Quality of Life Index (based on available local metrics). This is a moderate score, with room for improvement in some areas. Key strengths include strong safety scores in citywide metrics and strong job market with diverse industries. Areas to consider: high cost of living.

    Safety

    Excellent
    85

    Fontana scores well on safety metrics — still research specific neighborhoods.

    Walkability

    Average
    54

    Some walkable areas, but a car is recommended for most activities.

    Commute

    Average
    40

    Average commute is 30 minutes. Reasonable commute times across the city.

    Pros of Living in Fontana
    • +Strong safety scores in citywide metrics
    • +Strong job market with diverse industries
    • +Higher-than-average incomes
    Considerations
    • -High cost of living
    Data Sources: FBI_Crime_Stats_2024, WalkScore_API, EPA_AQI_2026, Census_Commute_Data_2024
    In-Depth Guide

    The Complete Guide to Moving to Fontana, CA in 2026

    Prepared by MoveSmart Team · · 593 words

    Reviewed by MoveSmart Team · Last verified April 2026 · Editorial Standards

    Table of Contents

    1Why People Are Moving to Fontana

    Fontana, California has become an attractive option for relocating families and professionals in 2026. With a population of 214,547, the city offers strong opportunities in Logistics and Distribution, Manufacturing, Healthcare. The higher cost of living is offset by excellent safety ratings and suburban character with room to grow. Whether you're relocating for a job opportunity, seeking a change of scenery, or planning retirement, understanding Fontana's unique characteristics will help you make an informed decision and plan a successful move.

    2What to Expect: Cost of Living in Fontana

    Understanding Fontana's cost structure is essential for planning your move. The city's Cost of Living Index of 136.9 means you'll spend about 37% more than the national average. **Housing Costs:** The median home price is $445,129, while renters pay approximately $1,794 for a 1-bedroom and $2,332 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The housing market offers reasonable options across various price points. **Income Considerations:** The median household income in Fontana is $85,839. Higher-than-average salaries help offset living costs.

    3Moving Costs: Getting to Fontana

    The cost of your move to Fontana depends on distance, timing, and inventory size. **Inbound**: Moving TO Fontana averages $1,886 for a 2BR. **Outbound**: Moving FROM Fontana averages $1,886.

    4Living in Fontana: Quality of Life

    Beyond the numbers, Fontana offers a distinct lifestyle that attracts residents from across the country. **Safety:** With a safety score of 85/100, Fontana is considered very safe with low crime rates. **Walkability:** The city scores 54/100 for walkability. Some neighborhoods are walkable, but most residents own vehicles. **Commute:** The average commute is 30 minutes. Commute times are reasonable across most of the city.

    5Fontana's Job Market and Economy

    **Key industries**: Logistics and Distribution, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail, Automotive/Motorsports. **Major employers**: Kaiser Permanente, Amazon, Fontana Unified School District, Target, UPS.

    6Practical Tips for Your Move to Fontana

    A successful move requires planning. Here are Fontana-specific considerations: **Parking:** Contact your building or Fontana city hall about moving truck permits. Many areas require advance reservations. **DMV and Registration:** You'll have 30-60 days (varies by state) to update your driver's license and vehicle registration after establishing CA residency. **Finding Your Neighborhood:** With diverse neighborhoods to choose from, consider renting short-term first to find the right fit before committing to a long-term lease or purchase. For general utility-setup and pre-move admin steps, see our [Complete Moving Guide](/guide).

    7Life After the Move: Fontana Lifestyle

    Daily life in Fontana is characterized by its vibrant, diverse community and a focus on family-friendly activities, set against the backdrop of a hot, arid climate. The food scene reflects its multicultural population, with an abundance of authentic Mexican, Asian, and classic American eateries, offering casual dining experiences rather than high-end gourmet. Outdoor access is plentiful, with residents enjoying local green spaces like Fontana Park and the Mary Vagle Nature Center, which provide trails and educational programs. For more extensive recreation, the nearby San Bernardino Mountains offer hiking, camping, and winter sports, while the hot summers encourage water activities at local splash pads or nearby lakes. A significant cultural anchor is the Auto Club Speedway, which hosts major racing events, bringing excitement and a unique energy to the city. The Lewis Library and Technology Center serves as a vital community hub for learning and cultural engagement. Fontana's local quirks include a strong sense of community pride and a car-centric lifestyle typical of Southern California's Inland Empire.

    8Next Steps for Your Fontana Move

    For the full pre-move timeline (8 weeks out, 6 weeks out, 4 weeks out, moving day, first week, first month), see our [Complete Moving Guide](/guide). Below, get a personalized cost estimate for your Fontana move:
    Data Sources: MoveSmart_Research_2026, Census_ACS_2024, BLS_2026, EIA_STEO_2026

    Cost of Living in Fontana

    Compared to national averages

    Fontana has a cost of living 37% above the national average. The primary driver is overall living expenses.

    CategoryFontanaNational AvgDifference
    Cost of Living Index136.9100+37%
    1BR Rent (Monthly)$1,794$1,500+20%
    2BR Rent (Monthly)$2,332$1,900+23%
    Median Home Price$445,129$400,000+11%
    Median Household Income$85,839$75,000+14%
    Sales Tax Rate8.85%7.12%+1.73%
    Key Insights
    • •Fontana is a high cost-of-living city. Budget 20-30% more for daily expenses compared to the national average.
    • •Housing is relatively affordable: Rent is 25% of median income, within the healthy 30% threshold recommended by housing experts [Source: Harvard JCHS 2025].
    Data Sources: Census_ACS_2024, BLS_CPI_2026, Zillow_Rent_Index_2026

    Moving Costs: Fontana

    Inbound and outbound cost analysis

    Moving TO Fontana

    Moving TO Fontana: The average cost for a 2-bedroom move is $1,886. Fontana experiences moderate demand with good carrier availability year-round. Limited backhaul discounts available for this direction.

    $1,886avg 2BR
    Moving FROM Fontana

    Moving FROM Fontana: The average cost for a 2-bedroom move is $1,886. Outbound and inbound costs are in a similar range on this corridor.

    $1,886avg 2BR

    Moving Costs by Home Size

    Home SizeWeightInbound CostOutbound Cost
    Studio/1BR2,000-3,000 lbs$1,132-$1,415$1,132-$1,415
    2BR5,000-6,000 lbs$1,603-$2,169$1,603-$2,169
    3BR8,000-10,000 lbs$2,452-$3,018$2,452-$3,018
    4BR+12,000-15,000 lbs$3,395-$4,149$3,395-$4,149
    Seasonal Factors

    Fontana has year-round moving conditions. Peak season (June-August) sees 15-30% higher rates. Consider September-October for mild weather and lower demand.

    Money-Saving Tips for Fontana Moves
    • $Fontana's moderate demand means more negotiating power — compare multiple estimates.
    • $Book 4-6 weeks ahead for Fontana moves to lock in the best rates.
    • $Mid-month, mid-week moves to Fontana are typically 10-15% cheaper than month-end weekends.
    Data Sources: MoveSmart_Cost_Analysis_2026, EIA_STEO_2026, FMCSA_Carrier_Database

    Fontana, CA vs National Median

    How Fontana stacks up against the US median on four key cost and commute metrics.

    Fontana, CA housing tenure

    Owner- vs renter-occupied share of housing units — US Census ACS.

    Fontana, CA mobility index

    How often people move, and how the population has changed over five years.

    Fontana at a Glance

    Five metrics that shape daily life — each city's polygon tells its own story.

    Safety: 85/100 (85/100)Walkability: 54/100 (54/100)Air quality: 50/100 (N/A)Short commute: 60/100 (30 min)Affordability: 29/100 (CoL 137)SafetyWalkabilityAir qualityShort commuteAffordability
    Safety
    85/100
    85
    Walkability
    54/100
    54
    Air quality
    N/A
    50
    Short commute
    30 min
    60
    Affordability
    CoL 137
    29

    Popular Moving Routes for Fontana

    Real price, distance, and demand data for top corridors in and out of Fontana.

    Moving FROM Fontana

    DestinationMiles2BR costDemand
    Phoenix, AZ311$1,954–$1,985High
    San Jose, CA336$2,305–$2,530Medium
    Las Vegas, NV193$1,879–$1,184Medium
    Fresno, CA226$2,159–$1,594Medium
    Mesa, AZ325$1,839–$1,952Medium
    Bakersfield, CA126$2,114–$870Medium

    Moving TO Fontana

    OriginMiles2BR costDemand
    Phoenix, AZ311$1,954–$1,985Medium
    San Jose, CA336$2,305–$2,530Medium
    Las Vegas, NV193$1,879–$1,184Medium
    Fresno, CA226$2,159–$1,594Medium
    Mesa, AZ325$1,839–$1,952Medium
    Bakersfield, CA126$2,114–$870Medium

    Fontana, CA Affordability Signature

    Income, home price, and 2BR rent each scaled against the national median. Every city draws a different shape.

    Median Income: $85,839 (114% of national)Home Price: $445,129 (111% of national)2BR Rent: $2,332 (123% of national)Median IncomeHome Price2BR Rent

    Dashed grey = US national median (all three axes at 100%). Amber = Fontana, CA. A larger triangle means higher raw values, not necessarily a more affordable city.

    • Median Income
      National median: $75,000
      $85,839
      114% of national
    • Home Price
      National median: $400,000
      $445,129
      111% of national
    • 2BR Rent
      National median: $1,900
      $2,332
      123% of national

    Fontana Moving Challenges & Local Tips

    Fontana's smaller footprint generally makes moving logistics more straightforward than major metros. However, some residential areas may have narrow streets or limited truck access that requires planning.

    Parking & Permits

    Contact Fontana city hall or your building management about moving truck parking permits. Most apartment complexes and HOAs have their own requirements including elevator reservations, proof of insurance, and sometimes move-in deposits. Schedule your parking permit at least 5 business days before your move date.

    Neighborhood Tips

    • Ask your new Fontana neighbors about moving day logistics specific to your building or street. Local knowledge prevents surprises.
    • Join Fontana community groups online before your move to get neighborhood-specific tips from residents.

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    Estimates based on carrier rate cards and published industry data

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