Mankato, MN vs Stillwater, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Mankato is 24.7% cheaper than Stillwater. With a cost index of 84 vs 112, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Mankato to Stillwater should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Mankato is $1,089/month compared to $1,408/month in Stillwater — a 23% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Mankato is more affordable at $250,600 median vs $398,100.

Median household income in Mankato is $64,826 compared to $109,297 in Stillwater (-40.7%). While Stillwater is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Mankato spend roughly 20.2% of their income on rent, more than the 15.5% in Stillwater.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (46.7°F vs 46.5°F). Mankato receives more rainfall at 30.6" per year compared to 29.2" in Stillwater.