Minnesota · Population 121,638 · Updated March 2026
How far your income goes in Rochester
State-level tax rates that affect your costs
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.
Common questions about living costs in Rochester
Similar-sized cities to compare
Compare the cost of living in Rochester, MN with 299 other major U.S. cities