Alexandria, MN vs Chisago City, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Alexandria is 20.1% cheaper than Chisago City. With a cost index of 81 vs 102, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Alexandria to Chisago City should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Alexandria is $907/month compared to $1,163/month in Chisago City — a 22% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Alexandria is more affordable at $247,200 median vs $366,600.

Median household income in Alexandria is $61,558 compared to $96,964 in Chisago City (-36.5%). While Chisago City is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Alexandria spend roughly 17.7% of their income on rent, more than the 14.4% in Chisago City.