Brainerd, MN vs Redwood Falls, MN

Brainerd, MN and Redwood Falls, MN have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.9% difference in their overall index. Brainerd scores 74 while Redwood Falls scores 72 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 Brainerd is $848/month compared to $824/month in Redwood Falls — a 3% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Redwood Falls is more affordable at $162,000 median vs $178,600.

Median household income in Brainerd is $53,705 compared to $61,947 in Redwood Falls (-13.3%). Redwood 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 16% in Redwood Falls.