Andover, MN vs Big Lake, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Big Lake is 19.8% cheaper than Andover. With a cost index of 103 vs 124, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Big Lake to Andover should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Andover is $1,827/month compared to $1,417/month in Big Lake — a 29% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Big Lake is more affordable at $291,700 median vs $389,200.

Median household income in Andover is $131,528 compared to $113,333 in Big Lake (+16.1%). The higher salaries in Andover partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Andover spend roughly 16.7% of their income on rent, more than the 15% in Big Lake.