Hopkins, MN vs Minnetonka, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Hopkins is 16.7% cheaper than Minnetonka. With a cost index of 106 vs 127, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Hopkins to Minnetonka should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Hopkins is $1,346/month compared to $1,758/month in Minnetonka — a 23% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hopkins is more affordable at $350,100 median vs $456,200.

Median household income in Hopkins is $71,170 compared to $120,496 in Minnetonka (-40.9%). While Minnetonka is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Hopkins spend roughly 22.7% of their income on rent, more than the 17.5% in Minnetonka.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (46.7°F vs 46.7°F). Minnetonka receives more rainfall at 30.6" per year compared to 30.6" in Hopkins.