Fontana Apartments and Rentals

Fontana has been one of the fastest growing communities in southern California since 2000 due to its population growth in residential, commercial and manufacturing development. Located approximately 50 miles east of sprawling Los Angeles, the city is known as the "crossroads of the Inland Empire." The city is a particularly great place for families, since nearly 33 percent of the population is under the age of 18, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Because of the city's rapid growth and job opportunity, many Californians are finding fantastic Fontana apartments for rent.

Most of the San Bernardino Valley was comprised of agricultural towns of citrus orchards, chicken ranches and vineyards until the mid-20th century, and the city of Fontana was no different. According to Fontana's Chamber of Commerce, the city was founded in 1913 by A.B. Miller alongside historic Route 66 (known as Foothill Boulevard today).

During World War II, the city underwent a transformation after road and rail were constructed through the town, and Henry J. Kaiser's steel mill opened. Industrial growth brought in thousands of blue collar workers into the area seeking jobs, and Fontana became one of southern California's most prominent industrial hubs. In the 1950s and 1960s, the Fontana drag strip opened and brought in racing enthusiasts and tourists from all over the West Coast, spurring the community's economy even further.

According to the census, the city's population jumped from less than 130,000 to nearly 190,000 from 2000 to 2010, indicating that the growth that was exhibited in the 1900s in the community is expected to grow and prosper into the 21st century as well.

Although manufacturing and trucking-based industries remain the crux of the economy in Fontana, the employment opportunities here are rapidly changing. According to the city's 2010 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the city's top employer was Kaiser Permanente, one of the largest medical facilities in the region. However, there are manufacturing hubs for Target, Manheim Auctions, and Better Beverages, among others. If you are commuting for work, finding Fontana rentals near Interstates 10 and 15 should gives residents easy access to and from their jobs.

Chaffey College is one of the oldest 2-year public community colleges in southern California. Established in 1916, it is as old as the city itself. Originally an agricultural school, the college is now home to 18,000 students seeking academic and occupational certificates or an educational basis for 4-year universities in San Bernardino Valley.

Since southern California is one of the most sought after regions in the country for residence, it is no surprise that the cost of living is higher here than the rest of the nation. According to city-data.com, the median gross rent in 2009 was more than $1,100 per month. However, the median household income in the area rose $13,000 more per year, which helps to make Fontana a more affordable place to live for California residents.

One of the most popular attractions in the area is the Fontana Auto Club Speedway. Home to many NASCAR races, this track has been a mainstay in the community for more than five decades thanks to refurbishments and repairs over the years. In addition to the racing experience, Fontana residents can also participate in the track's popular annual 5K.

One of the city's most celebrated annual events is the Festival of Winter. Since Fontana enjoys a temperate climate year round, many of the activities, including a tree lighting ceremony, are available outdoors. In the past, residents have enjoyed this free event that features live music, pictures with Santa and a play zone with more than 50 tons of snow.

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