Cost of Living: Rochester, MN vs Richardson, TX (2026)

Rochester

Minnesota
93
VS

Richardson

Texas
128

Rochester is 27% cheaper than Richardson.

$1,316/mo ↓ 28%
Median Rent
$1,825/mo ↑ 39%
$87,767/yr ↓ 9%
Median Income
$96,257/yr ↑ 10%
$287,500 ↓ 29%
Home Value
$405,600 ↑ 41%
$1,332/mo ↓ 26%
Owner Costs
$1,796/mo ↑ 35%
121,638
Population
118,269

Tax Comparison

9.85%
Income Tax
0%
6.875%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.11%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

18.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, MN and Richardson, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 93 and 128 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $509/month cheaper in Rochester, saving renters about $6,108/year.

Median household income is $8,490/year higher in Richardson. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $287,500 compared to $405,600 in Richardson.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Richardson residents a significant tax advantage over Minnesota's 9.85% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Richardson — common questions

Is Rochester or Richardson cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 93 compared to 128 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rochester and Richardson?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,316/month and in Richardson it's $1,825/month — a difference of $509/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or Richardson?
Median household income is $87,767 in Rochester and $96,257 in Richardson. Median household income is $8,490/year higher in Richardson.
How do taxes compare between Minnesota and Texas?
Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Rochester or Richardson?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 93 with median rent of $1,316/mo, while Richardson has a cost index of 128 with rent of $1,825/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rochester details → View Richardson details →

More Comparisons

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