Cost of Living in Rochester, MN 2026

Affordability

How far your income goes in Rochester

18.0%

Rent-to-Income Ratio

Affordable

Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Minnesota

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

9.85%

Income Tax (Top Rate)

6.875%

Sales Tax

1.11%

Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$15,792

Annual Rent

$8,645

State Income Tax

$3,191

Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Rochester offers a below-average cost of living, giving residents more purchasing power compared to many US cities. With a cost index of 93 (where 100 equals the national median), Rochester residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,316/month while earning a median household income of $87,767/year.

The median home value in Rochester, MN is $287,500, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,332 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 18.0% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Minnesota's top income tax rate of 9.85% is among the highest in the nation, adding to the overall cost burden. Combined with a 6.875% sales tax rate and 1.11% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Rochester.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Rochester

What is the cost of living in Rochester, MN?

The cost of living index in Rochester, MN is 93 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,316, median household income is $87,767/year, and the median home value is $287,500.

Is Rochester, MN affordable?

Yes, Rochester is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 93. The rent-to-income ratio is 18.0%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.

What is the average rent in Rochester, MN?

The median gross rent in Rochester, MN is $1,316 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $15,792.

What is the median household income in Rochester?

The median household income in Rochester, MN is $87,767 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.

What are the taxes like in Minnesota?

Minnesota has a top income tax rate of 9.85%, a sales tax of 6.875%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.11%.

Rochester, MN

Affordability

Tax Burden in Minnesota

Estimated Annual Costs

Cost of Living Overview

Frequently Asked Questions

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