Moorhead, MN vs Stillwater, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Moorhead is 26.5% cheaper than Stillwater. With a cost index of 82 vs 112, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Moorhead to Stillwater should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Moorhead is $1,017/month compared to $1,408/month in Stillwater — a 28% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Moorhead is more affordable at $246,300 median vs $398,100.

Median household income in Moorhead is $69,371 compared to $109,297 in Stillwater (-36.5%). 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 Moorhead spend roughly 17.6% of their income on rent, more than the 15.5% in Stillwater.

Climate-wise, Stillwater is notably warmer with an average of 46.5°F compared to 42.2°F in Moorhead. Stillwater receives more rainfall at 29.2" per year compared to 24" in Moorhead.