College Costs in Fontana, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 18 colleges in Fontana, California. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,333
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,840
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,423
per month
Colleges & Universities
18
institutions
Fontana Overview
Population
214,547
Student Population
6,727 (3.1%)
Cost of Living Index
106 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
57/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
3.4%
College Cost Calculator for Fontana
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$121,108
Total After Financial Aid
$121,108
Annual Cost
$30,277
Annual After Aid
$30,277
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $121,108 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,375 |
| Total Interest | $43,911 |
| Total Loan Cost | $165,019 |
Universities in Fontana
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| California Baptist University Fontana | Private | $38,840 |
| Chaffey College | Community | $1,540 |
Fontana has 18 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Fontana vs. National Average
| Category | Fontana | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,333 | $10,940 | +$393 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,423 | $1,050 | +$373 |
| Cost of Living Index | 106 | 100 | +6 |
Fontana's cost of living is above the national average. Students should budget accordingly and consider off-campus housing options to reduce expenses.
Student Life in Fontana
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
6,727 students
Fontana has a total population of 214,547, with approximately 6,727 college students (3.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Fontana offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Fontana
$64,690
Starting Salary
3.4%
Unemployment Rate
61%
Graduation Rate
~4 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Fontana earn a median starting salary of $64,690, which is $29,690 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $121,108 (including room and board), it would take approximately 4 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,336 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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