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5 Reasons to Live in Ontario, California

July 12, 2024
Canvas Park pool at New Haven by Brookfield Residential in Ontario Ranch CA

Known as the “gateway to Southern California,” Ontario is a vibrant city full of exciting attractions and activities. It's fantastic weather, affordable rents, and low tax rates make it a desirable place to live, too.

According to U.S. Census data, as of July 1, 2023, Ontario's population is estimated to be 182,457, compared to its population of 179,061 in 2022. It’s easy to understand why so many people choose to call Ontario home when you know all the city has to offer.

Desirable Weather in Ontario, California

Ontario’s climate is ideal for warm-weather lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The city’s summers are hot, while winters are mild. Throughout the year, the temperature can range from 44 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit on average, and it rarely dips below 37 degrees. As a result, you can enjoy outdoor activities nearly year-round.

Affordable Cost of Living

Compared to other California cities, Ontario offers an affordable cost of living. While some cities’ cost of living index are as high as 269, Ontario’s is just 128.

Buying a home is more affordable in Ontario than in comparable cities, too. The median home price in Ontario is $416,000, while elsewhere it can climb as high as $1,295,000. Additionally, the city’s combined sales tax rate is 7.75%, whereas other cities’ rates can climb as high as 10.25%.

That lower cost of living has many benefits and it may contribute to overall quality of life and happiness. In fact, WalletHub ranked Ontario as the 83rd happiest city in America, coming in just behind Los Angeles, which ranked 76th.

Ideal Location

Ontario is ideally situated for easy travel in and out of the city. Interstate 10, Interstate 15, and the Pomona Freeway run through Ontario. Downtown Los Angeles is just 35 miles away, and downtown San Bernardino is a 23-mile drive west. Other popular destinations like Anaheim and Huntington Beach are also easy to access, so you can travel beyond the city for employment or entertainment.

If you don’t feel like driving or want to travel further, the Ontario International Airport provides domestic and international flights. The airport’s convenient location is also ideal when you have friends or family flying in to visit you.

Thriving Economy

Ontario also benefits from a thriving economy. Farming remains prevalent in the area, and the city is home to numerous dairy farms and olive growers. There’s an active manufacturing industry and warehousing, distribution, technology, healthcare, and retail industries. Tourism also plays a key role in Ontario’s economy.

With such a robust economy, the city has plenty of job opportunities. Major employers in Ontario include the Ontario International Airport, Sam’s Club, Target, Securitas, and UPS. Given Ontario’s proximity to other major cities, professionals may also choose to commute and can access even more career opportunities.

Diverse Entertainment

Ontario truly has something for everyone, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy anytime during the year. Outdoor enthusiasts can walk, hike, or bike at the city’s numerous parks and outdoor attractions, such as Big Bear Lake, Red Hill Community Park, and the Pacific Electric Trail.

There are plenty of entertainment options for the entire family, too. The Lewis Family Playhouse hosts various theatrical productions for children and families. The adventurous may also head to iFLY, which offers indoor skydiving for the whole family. And if you’re willing to drive a bit further, your family can also enjoy amusement parks like Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Six Flags Magic Mountain.

After a busy day, you can enjoy dinner at one of Ontario’s numerous restaurants. Whether you’re craving Cuban, Mexican, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, or Indian food, you’ll find diverse dining options. After dinner, adults can check out a set by their favorite comedians at the Improv Comedy Club.

Plan Your Move to Ontario

At Brookfield Residential’s New Haven Community, you can enjoy all of the benefits of Ontario and more. The New Haven Marketplace features premier shopping and dining venues, and the community has amenities the whole family can enjoy, including a pool, park, picnic area, playground, and dog parks.

Our sales team is excited to help you find your dream home in your dream location at New Haven. Explore the community and connect with our sales team when you’re ready to learn more. We’ll be expecting you! 

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