Aitkin, MN vs Lilydale, MN

The cost of living difference between Aitkin, MN and Lilydale, MN is dramatic. Aitkin is 51.6% cheaper than Lilydale, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Aitkin has a cost index of 68 while Lilydale sits at 140, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Aitkin is $657/month compared to $2,359/month in Lilydale — a 72% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Aitkin is more affordable at $172,800 median vs $389,300.

Median household income in Aitkin is $45,813 compared to $93,393 in Lilydale (-50.9%). The higher salaries in Lilydale partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Aitkin spend roughly 17.2% of their income on rent, less than the 30.3% in Lilydale. The Aitkin ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.