Cambridge, MN vs Melrose, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Melrose is 16.9% cheaper than Cambridge. With a cost index of 80 vs 93, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Melrose to Cambridge should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Cambridge is $1,232/month compared to $1,061/month in Melrose — a 16% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Melrose is more affordable at $198,300 median vs $234,800.

Median household income in Cambridge is $67,632 compared to $58,107 in Melrose (+16.4%). The higher salaries in Cambridge partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Cambridge spend roughly 21.9% of their income on rent, less than the 21.9% in Melrose.