Park Rapids, MN vs Pierz, MN

Pierz is moderately more affordable than Park Rapids, with a 12.8% lower cost of living index. Park Rapids scores 79 compared to 70 for Pierz, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Park Rapids can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Park Rapids is $912/month compared to $786/month in Pierz — a 16% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Pierz is more affordable at $155,700 median vs $218,500.

Median household income in Park Rapids is $45,800 compared to $55,438 in Pierz (-17.4%). Pierz offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Park Rapids spend roughly 23.9% of their income on rent, more than the 17% in Pierz.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (40.4°F vs 42.2°F). Pierz receives more rainfall at 24.5" per year compared to 23.9" in Park Rapids.