Cost of Living: Minneapolis, MN vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Minneapolis

Minnesota
102
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Minneapolis is 9% more expensive than Rochester.

$1,329/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ≈ Same
$80,269/yr ↓ 9%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 9%
$345,600 ↑ 20%
Home Value
$287,500 ↓ 17%
$1,513/mo ↑ 14%
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ↓ 12%
426,845
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

9.85%
Income Tax
9.85%
6.875%
Sales Tax
6.875%
1.11%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

19.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Minneapolis, MN and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 102 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $7,498/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Minneapolis is $345,600 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Minnesota.

Frequently Asked Questions

Minneapolis vs Rochester — common questions

Is Minneapolis or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 93 compared to 102 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Minneapolis and Rochester?
Median rent in Minneapolis is $1,329/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $13/month.
Which city has higher income, Minneapolis or Rochester?
Median household income is $80,269 in Minneapolis and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $7,498/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between Minnesota and Minnesota?
Both cities are in Minnesota and share the same state tax rates: 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Minneapolis or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Minneapolis has a cost index of 102 with median rent of $1,329/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.
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