Nelson, MN vs Russell, MN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Russell is 17.6% cheaper than Nelson. With a cost index of 63 vs 74, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Russell to Nelson should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Nelson is $917/month compared to $700/month in Russell — a 31% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Russell is more affordable at $101,700 median vs $156,700.

Median household income in Nelson is $52,708 compared to $62,143 in Russell (-15.2%). Russell offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Nelson spend roughly 20.9% of their income on rent, more than the 13.5% in Russell.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (42.5°F vs 45.4°F). Russell receives more rainfall at 28" per year compared to 24.1" in Nelson.