Ontario, CA Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Ontario, CA: What You Need to Know

Ontario in Southern California was named after the Canadian province, but its success and tremendous growth as a model colony are distinctly American.

Ontario’s Local History

In 1881, Canadian brothers George and William Chaffey bought 6,218 acres of land in the area for $60,000. It was the beginning of Ontario Colony, a model community in terms of layout and infrastructure, which they named after their home province of Ontario. Plots went on sale in November 1882. Ontario was first developed as an agricultural community mainly devoted to citrus. In December 1891, Ontario was incorporated as a city. Since World War II its economy has diversified and extended to industrial and manufacturing sectors.

Job Opportunities in Town

Ontario is not only close to Los Angeles (just 35 miles away), it offers similar amenities and infrastructure at a lower cost. Niagara Bottling, a manufacturer of bottled water and soft drinks, Chariot Travelware, a luggage manufacturer, and Mag Instrument, an electrical equipment company, are based in Ontario. Other top employers are Safariland (manufacturing), DPI Specialty Foods (frozen foods), and Prime Healthcare Services. 

The Cost of Living in Ontario

Southern California can be pricey, but Ontario (population: 185,010) is more affordable than its neighbor Los Angeles. Ontario’s cost of living rate, food, and housing costs are 6.8%, 3.3%, and 6.6% higher than the national average, respectively. The median gross rent in the city is $1,429. If you’re moving to Ontario, brace yourself for California’s 1% to 13.3% income tax and 7.25% to 10.50% sales tax. They’re among the highest in the U.S.

Know Your Neighborhoods

In Ontario, you’ll find many residents who have fled the exorbitant cost of living in Los Angeles. They praise their city’s diversity and environmentally conscious people. Almost half of all residents rent. Ontario is in San Bernardino County, so if you want to live outside Ontario, check out Chino Hills and Loma Linda, located in the same county. They both have above-average schools. Residents love the parks, hiking trails, and the rural feel in Chino Hills. Loma Linda, home to Loma Linda University and Medical Center, gets kudos for fostering a health-conscious community. 

Shopping in the City

Shopping is convenient in Ontario where you’ll find retailers of all sizes. Ontario Mills has more than 200 stores, including the biggest brands in men's, women's, and children's apparel, and footwear. It’s one of California's largest outlet shopping destination. Ontario Gateway Center is a 220,000-square-foot shopping center with 11 stores. Piemonte at Ontario Center is a regional shopping center anchored by Target.