Dover, MN vs Madelia, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Madelia is 20.2% cheaper than Dover. With a cost index of 68 vs 81, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Madelia to Dover should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Dover is $852/month compared to $795/month in Madelia — a 7% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Madelia is more affordable at $158,300 median vs $281,300.

Median household income in Dover is $112,500 compared to $77,500 in Madelia (+45.2%). While Dover is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Dover spend roughly 9.1% of their income on rent, less than the 12.3% in Madelia.