Albert Lea, MN vs Byron, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Albert Lea is 22.2% cheaper than Byron. With a cost index of 72 vs 92, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Albert Lea to Byron should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Albert Lea is $845/month compared to $1,079/month in Byron — a 22% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Albert Lea is more affordable at $150,400 median vs $326,400.

Median household income in Albert Lea is $62,522 compared to $121,681 in Byron (-48.6%). While Byron is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Albert Lea spend roughly 16.2% of their income on rent, more than the 10.6% in Byron.