Benson, MN vs Hermantown, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Benson is 28% cheaper than Hermantown. With a cost index of 74 vs 103, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Benson to Hermantown should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Benson is $939/month compared to $1,375/month in Hermantown — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Benson is more affordable at $146,100 median vs $374,000.

Median household income in Benson is $51,124 compared to $92,026 in Hermantown (-44.4%). While Hermantown is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Benson spend roughly 22% of their income on rent, more than the 17.9% in Hermantown.