Duluth, MN vs Mankato, MN

Duluth, MN and Mankato, MN have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.5% difference in their overall index. Duluth scores 80 while Mankato scores 84 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 Duluth is $1,037/month compared to $1,089/month in Mankato — a 5% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Duluth is more affordable at $225,700 median vs $250,600.

Median household income in Duluth is $66,263 compared to $64,826 in Mankato (+2.2%). Duluth offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Duluth spend roughly 18.8% of their income on rent, less than the 20.2% in Mankato.