Preston, MN vs Randolph, MN

The cost of living difference between Preston, MN and Randolph, MN is dramatic. Preston is 38.6% cheaper than Randolph, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Preston has a cost index of 66 while Randolph sits at 108, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Preston is $649/month compared to $1,619/month in Randolph — a 60% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Preston is more affordable at $169,600 median vs $268,800.

Median household income in Preston is $60,438 compared to $101,786 in Randolph (-40.6%). While Randolph is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Preston spend roughly 12.9% of their income on rent, less than the 19.1% in Randolph.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (44.8°F vs 46.9°F). Preston receives more rainfall at 34.7" per year compared to 31.6" in Randolph.