Arlington, MN vs International Falls, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. International Falls is 17.8% cheaper than Arlington. With a cost index of 63 vs 74, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from International Falls to Arlington should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Arlington is $839/month compared to $753/month in International Falls — a 11% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: International Falls is more affordable at $115,000 median vs $181,600.

Median household income in Arlington is $66,458 compared to $61,043 in International Falls (+8.9%). The higher salaries in Arlington partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Arlington spend roughly 15.1% of their income on rent, more than the 14.8% in International Falls.