Backus, MN vs Hills, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Backus is 24.8% cheaper than Hills. With a cost index of 57 vs 76, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Backus to Hills should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Backus is $490/month compared to $962/month in Hills — a 49% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Backus is more affordable at $104,700 median vs $184,800.

Median household income in Backus is $58,750 compared to $67,393 in Hills (-12.8%). The higher salaries in Hills partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Backus spend roughly 10% of their income on rent, less than the 17.1% in Hills.