Ellendale, MN vs Utica, MN

Ellendale is moderately more affordable than Utica, with a 11.8% lower cost of living index. Ellendale scores 71 compared to 80 for Utica, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Utica can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Ellendale is $820/month compared to $1,075/month in Utica — a 24% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ellendale is more affordable at $150,000 median vs $184,200.

Median household income in Ellendale is $80,417 compared to $86,250 in Utica (-6.8%). The higher salaries in Utica partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Ellendale spend roughly 12.2% of their income on rent, less than the 15% in Utica.