Clearwater, MN vs St. Stephen, MN

Clearwater, MN and St. Stephen, MN have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.9% difference in their overall index. Clearwater scores 84 while St. Stephen scores 82 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 Clearwater is $1,074/month compared to $1,025/month in St. Stephen — a 5% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: St. Stephen is more affordable at $237,600 median vs $248,100.

Median household income in Clearwater is $89,219 compared to $94,875 in St. Stephen (-6%). St. Stephen offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Clearwater spend roughly 14.4% of their income on rent, more than the 13% in St. Stephen.