Balsam Lake, WI vs Oakdale, WI

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Oakdale is 21.9% cheaper than Balsam Lake. With a cost index of 66 vs 81, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Oakdale to Balsam Lake should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Balsam Lake is $1,063/month compared to $588/month in Oakdale — a 81% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Oakdale is more affordable at $187,500 median vs $188,600.

Median household income in Balsam Lake is $48,468 compared to $86,563 in Oakdale (-44%). Oakdale offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Balsam Lake spend roughly 26.3% of their income on rent, more than the 8.2% in Oakdale.