Alexandria, MN vs Maplewood, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Alexandria is 18.9% cheaper than Maplewood. 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 Maplewood should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Alexandria is $907/month compared to $1,316/month in Maplewood — a 31% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Alexandria is more affordable at $247,200 median vs $291,300.

Median household income in Alexandria is $61,558 compared to $88,534 in Maplewood (-30.5%). While Maplewood 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, less than the 17.8% in Maplewood.