Duluth, MN vs Rochester, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Duluth is 16.2% cheaper than Rochester. With a cost index of 80 vs 96, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Duluth to Rochester should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Duluth is $1,037/month compared to $1,316/month in Rochester — a 21% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Duluth is more affordable at $225,700 median vs $287,500.

Median household income in Duluth is $66,263 compared to $87,767 in Rochester (-24.5%). While Rochester is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Duluth spend roughly 18.8% of their income on rent, more than the 18% in Rochester.