Apple Valley, MN vs Elk River, MN

Elk River is moderately more affordable than Apple Valley, with a 13.3% lower cost of living index. Apple Valley scores 116 compared to 103 for Elk River, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Apple Valley can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Apple Valley is $1,678/month compared to $1,269/month in Elk River — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Elk River is more affordable at $338,300 median vs $354,200.

Median household income in Apple Valley is $99,277 compared to $99,457 in Elk River (-0.2%). Elk River offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Apple Valley spend roughly 20.3% of their income on rent, more than the 15.3% in Elk River.