Fergus Falls, MN vs Watertown, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Fergus Falls is 20.1% cheaper than Watertown. With a cost index of 73 vs 92, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Fergus Falls to Watertown should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Fergus Falls is $839/month compared to $967/month in Watertown — a 13% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Fergus Falls is more affordable at $173,300 median vs $315,200.

Median household income in Fergus Falls is $50,865 compared to $93,008 in Watertown (-45.3%). While Watertown is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Fergus Falls spend roughly 19.8% of their income on rent, more than the 12.5% in Watertown.

Climate-wise, Watertown is notably warmer with an average of 46.7°F compared to 42.5°F in Fergus Falls. Watertown receives more rainfall at 30.6" per year compared to 24.1" in Fergus Falls.