Maplewood, MN vs Rochester, MN

Maplewood, MN and Rochester, MN have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.5% difference in their overall index. Maplewood scores 100 while Rochester scores 96 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Maplewood is $1,316/month compared to $1,316/month in Rochester — a 0% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Rochester is more affordable at $287,500 median vs $291,300.

Median household income in Maplewood is $88,534 compared to $87,767 in Rochester (+0.9%). Maplewood 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 Maplewood spend roughly 17.8% of their income on rent, less than the 18% in Rochester.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (46.5°F vs 44.8°F). Rochester receives more rainfall at 34.7" per year compared to 29.2" in Maplewood.