International Falls, MN vs Red Wing, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. International Falls is 25.1% cheaper than Red Wing. With a cost index of 63 vs 84, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from International Falls to Red Wing should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in International Falls is $753/month compared to $954/month in Red Wing — a 21% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: International Falls is more affordable at $115,000 median vs $224,800.

Median household income in International Falls is $61,043 compared to $65,259 in Red Wing (-6.5%). Red Wing does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of International Falls spend roughly 14.8% of their income on rent, less than the 17.5% in Red Wing.

Climate-wise, Red Wing is notably warmer with an average of 46.5°F compared to 37.4°F in International Falls. Red Wing receives more rainfall at 29.2" per year compared to 25.4" in International Falls.