Melrose, MN vs Winnebago, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Winnebago is 23.9% cheaper than Melrose. With a cost index of 64 vs 80, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Winnebago 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 $725/month in Winnebago — a 46% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Winnebago is more affordable at $106,500 median vs $198,300.

Median household income in Melrose is $58,107 compared to $58,438 in Winnebago (-0.6%). Winnebago 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 14.9% in Winnebago.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (42.5°F vs 44.6°F). Winnebago receives more rainfall at 29.3" per year compared to 24.1" in Melrose.