Albert Lea, MN vs Delano, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Albert Lea is 22.7% cheaper than Delano. With a cost index of 72 vs 93, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Albert Lea to Delano should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Albert Lea is $845/month compared to $909/month in Delano — a 7% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Albert Lea is more affordable at $150,400 median vs $347,500.

Median household income in Albert Lea is $62,522 compared to $118,091 in Delano (-47.1%). While Delano 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 9.2% in Delano.