Apple Valley, MN vs Rochester, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Rochester is 21.3% cheaper than Apple Valley. With a cost index of 96 vs 116, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Rochester to Apple Valley should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Apple Valley is $1,678/month compared to $1,316/month in Rochester — a 28% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Rochester is more affordable at $287,500 median vs $354,200.

Median household income in Apple Valley is $99,277 compared to $87,767 in Rochester (+13.1%). The higher salaries in Apple Valley partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Apple Valley spend roughly 20.3% of their income on rent, more than the 18% in Rochester.