Monroe, WI vs Rochester, WI

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Monroe is 16.7% cheaper than Rochester. With a cost index of 74 vs 89, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Monroe to Rochester should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Monroe is $844/month compared to $920/month in Rochester — a 8% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Monroe is more affordable at $184,400 median vs $340,900.

Median household income in Monroe is $67,621 compared to $104,429 in Rochester (-35.2%). While Rochester is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Monroe spend roughly 15% of their income on rent, more than the 10.6% in Rochester.