Appleton, MN vs Ghent, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Appleton is 19.6% cheaper than Ghent. With a cost index of 60 vs 75, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Appleton to Ghent should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Appleton is $682/month compared to $941/month in Ghent — a 28% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Appleton is more affordable at $71,300 median vs $154,700.

Median household income in Appleton is $40,117 compared to $72,500 in Ghent (-44.7%). While Ghent is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Appleton spend roughly 20.4% of their income on rent, more than the 15.6% in Ghent.