Alexandria, MN vs Circle Pines, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Alexandria is 18.4% cheaper than Circle Pines. With a cost index of 81 vs 100, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Alexandria to Circle Pines should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Alexandria is $907/month compared to $1,337/month in Circle Pines — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Alexandria is more affordable at $247,200 median vs $277,300.

Median household income in Alexandria is $61,558 compared to $96,477 in Circle Pines (-36.2%). While Circle Pines 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 16.6% in Circle Pines.