Apple Valley, MN vs Faribault, MN

The cost of living difference between Apple Valley, MN and Faribault, MN is dramatic. Faribault is 38% cheaper than Apple Valley, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Apple Valley has a cost index of 116 while Faribault sits at 84, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Apple Valley is $1,678/month compared to $1,041/month in Faribault — a 61% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Faribault is more affordable at $233,900 median vs $354,200.

Median household income in Apple Valley is $99,277 compared to $61,662 in Faribault (+61%). 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, less than the 20.3% in Faribault.