Cost of Living: Providence, RI vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Providence

Rhode Island
99
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Providence is 6% more expensive than Rochester.

$1,333/mo ↑ 1%
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ↓ 1%
$66,772/yr ↓ 24%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 31%
$322,800 ↑ 12%
Home Value
$287,500 ↓ 11%
$1,467/mo ↑ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ↓ 9%
190,214
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

5.99%
Income Tax
9.85%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
6.875%
1.53%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

24.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $20,995/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

Rhode Island has a lower income tax rate, making Providence slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Rochester — common questions

Is Providence or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 93 compared to 99 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Providence and Rochester?
Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $17/month.
Which city has higher income, Providence or Rochester?
Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $20,995/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between Rhode Island and Minnesota?
Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% 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 Providence or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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 Providence details → View Rochester details →

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