Apple Valley, MN vs Stillwater, MN

Apple Valley, MN and Stillwater, MN have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.1% difference in their overall index. Apple Valley scores 116 while Stillwater scores 112 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 $1,408/month in Stillwater — a 19% difference. Interestingly, home values tell a different story: while Stillwater has cheaper rent, Apple Valley actually has lower median home values ($354,200 vs $398,100).

Median household income in Apple Valley is $99,277 compared to $109,297 in Stillwater (-9.2%). Stillwater 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 15.5% in Stillwater.