Cost of Living: Fresno, CA vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Fresno

California
101
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Fresno is 9% more expensive than Rochester.

$1,324/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ≈ Same
$66,804/yr ↓ 24%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 31%
$348,500 ↑ 21%
Home Value
$287,500 ↓ 18%
$1,391/mo ↑ 4%
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ↓ 4%
543,615
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

13.3%
Income Tax
9.85%
7.25%
State Sales Tax
6.875%
0.71%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

23.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fresno, CA and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 101 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $20,963/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fresno is $348,500 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

Minnesota has a lower income tax rate, making Rochester slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno vs Rochester — common questions

Is Fresno or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 93 compared to 101 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Fresno and Rochester?
Median rent in Fresno is $1,324/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $8/month.
Which city has higher income, Fresno or Rochester?
Median household income is $66,804 in Fresno and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $20,963/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between California and Minnesota?
California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Fresno or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Fresno has a cost index of 101 with median rent of $1,324/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 Fresno details → View Rochester details →

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