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

Rochester

New York
61
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Rochester is 34% cheaper than Rochester.

$1,039/mo ↓ 21%
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ↑ 27%
$46,628/yr ↓ 47%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 88%
$120,600 ↓ 58%
Home Value
$287,500 ↑ 138%
$1,009/mo ↓ 24%
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ↑ 32%
209,720
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
9.85%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
6.875%
1.62%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

26.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $277/month cheaper in Rochester, saving renters about $3,324/year.

Median household income is $41,139/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Rochester — common questions

Is Rochester or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 93 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rochester and Rochester?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $277/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or Rochester?
Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $41,139/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between New York and Minnesota?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Rochester or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/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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