Cost of Living: Washington, DC vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Washington

District of Columbia
171
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Washington is 84% more expensive than Rochester.

$1,900/mo ↑ 44%
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ↓ 31%
$106,287/yr ↑ 21%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↓ 17%
$724,600 ↑ 152%
Home Value
$287,500 ↓ 60%
$2,103/mo ↑ 58%
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ↓ 37%
672,079
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

10.75%
Income Tax
9.85%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.875%
0.56%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Washington, DC and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 171 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $584/month cheaper in Rochester, saving renters about $7,008/year.

Median household income is $18,520/year higher in Washington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Washington is $724,600 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Washington vs Rochester — common questions

Is Washington or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 93 compared to 171 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Washington and Rochester?
Median rent in Washington is $1,900/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $584/month.
Which city has higher income, Washington or Rochester?
Median household income is $106,287 in Washington and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $18,520/year higher in Washington.
How do taxes compare between District of Columbia and Minnesota?
District of Columbia has 10.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.56% property tax. Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Washington or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Washington has a cost index of 171 with median rent of $1,900/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 Washington details → View Rochester details →

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