Albert Lea, MN vs Mankato, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Albert Lea is 15.1% cheaper than Mankato. With a cost index of 72 vs 84, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Albert Lea to Mankato should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Albert Lea is $845/month compared to $1,089/month in Mankato — a 22% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Albert Lea is more affordable at $150,400 median vs $250,600.

Median household income in Albert Lea is $62,522 compared to $64,826 in Mankato (-3.6%). Mankato does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Albert Lea spend roughly 16.2% of their income on rent, less than the 20.2% in Mankato.