Backus, MN vs Westbrook, MN

Backus, MN and Westbrook, MN have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.4% difference in their overall index. Backus scores 57 while Westbrook scores 58 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 Backus is $490/month compared to $621/month in Westbrook — a 21% difference. Interestingly, home values tell a different story: while Backus has cheaper rent, Westbrook actually has lower median home values ($73,000 vs $104,700).

Median household income in Backus is $58,750 compared to $36,667 in Westbrook (+60.2%). Backus offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Backus spend roughly 10% of their income on rent, less than the 20.3% in Westbrook.