Waseca, MN vs Winona, MN

Waseca, MN and Winona, MN have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.6% difference in their overall index. Waseca scores 73 while Winona scores 75 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Waseca is $796/month compared to $839/month in Winona — a 5% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Waseca is more affordable at $185,600 median vs $193,500.

Median household income in Waseca is $61,546 compared to $56,163 in Winona (+9.6%). Waseca offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Waseca spend roughly 15.5% of their income on rent, less than the 17.9% in Winona.

Climate-wise, Winona is notably warmer with an average of 48.8°F compared to 44.8°F in Waseca. Winona receives more rainfall at 35.2" per year compared to 34.7" in Waseca.