Cost of Living: Akron, OH vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Akron

Ohio
55
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Akron is 41% cheaper than Rochester.

$930/mo ↓ 29%
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ↑ 42%
$48,544/yr ↓ 45%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 81%
$111,200 ↓ 61%
Home Value
$287,500 ↑ 159%
$904/mo ↓ 32%
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ↑ 47%
189,526
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

3.5%
Income Tax
9.85%
5.75%
State Sales Tax
6.875%
1.53%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

23.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Akron, OH and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 55 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $386/month cheaper in Akron, saving renters about $4,632/year.

Median household income is $39,223/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Akron is $111,200 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Akron slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Akron vs Rochester — common questions

Is Akron or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 93 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Akron and Rochester?
Median rent in Akron is $930/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $386/month.
Which city has higher income, Akron or Rochester?
Median household income is $48,544 in Akron and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $39,223/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between Ohio and Minnesota?
Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Akron or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Akron has a cost index of 55 with median rent of $930/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 93 with rent of $1,316/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Akron details → View Rochester details →

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