Brainerd, 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 Brainerd. 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 Brainerd should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Brainerd is $848/month compared to $753/month in International Falls — a 13% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: International Falls is more affordable at $115,000 median vs $178,600.

Median household income in Brainerd is $53,705 compared to $61,043 in International Falls (-12%). International Falls offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Brainerd spend roughly 18.9% of their income on rent, more than the 14.8% in International Falls.