Melrose, MN vs Preston, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Preston is 20.5% cheaper than Melrose. With a cost index of 66 vs 80, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Preston to Melrose should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Melrose is $1,061/month compared to $649/month in Preston — a 64% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Preston is more affordable at $169,600 median vs $198,300.

Median household income in Melrose is $58,107 compared to $60,438 in Preston (-3.9%). Preston offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Melrose spend roughly 21.9% of their income on rent, more than the 12.9% in Preston.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (42.5°F vs 44.8°F). Preston receives more rainfall at 34.7" per year compared to 24.1" in Melrose.