Apple Valley, MN vs Bloomington, MN

Apple Valley, MN and Bloomington, MN have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.7% difference in their overall index. Apple Valley scores 116 while Bloomington scores 111 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Apple Valley is $1,678/month compared to $1,526/month in Bloomington — a 10% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Bloomington is more affordable at $346,200 median vs $354,200.

Median household income in Apple Valley is $99,277 compared to $90,677 in Bloomington (+9.5%). While Apple Valley is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Apple Valley spend roughly 20.3% of their income on rent, more than the 20.2% in Bloomington.