A Breakdown of the Cost of Living in Minnesota
- Housing prices in Minnesota are 22% lower than the US average. The median home price in Minnesota is $416,913.40, which is significantly lower than the national median of $428,000. If you're buying a new house in Minnesota, plan to put down 15 to 20% of the home price upfront as a down payment. Monthly mortgage payments in the state also run 20% to 30% lower than major coastal markets.
- Renting in Minnesota is 12.3% higher than the US average of $1,535.20. The average rent for a one-bedroom home in Minnesota is around $1,300 per month, while a two-bedroom home in Minnesota averages $2,000. Unlike more expensive metros, Minnesota offers more space and amenities for your rental dollar, with many properties including garage parking and outdoor areas.
- Utilities are 3% lower than the US median. Energy bills cost around $197 per month, with heating making up a significant portion during Minnesota's famously cold winters. Property insurance averages $800 to $1,200 annually, much lower than hurricane or earthquake-prone states like Florida and California.
- Food prices in Minnesota are 3% higher than the national average. A gallon of milk costs roughly $4.63, compared to $4.30 in Los Angeles or $4.10 in Tampa. If you're a family of four, you can expect to spend $1,000 to $1,200 each month on groceries. If you're a single adult, prepare to spend $300 to $450 monthly, depending on your eating habits.
- Transportation costs are 0.17% higher than the national average. The average price of gas in MN is $3.03 per gallon, which is significantly lower than California at $3.95, and New York at $3.25. Monthly car insurance averages $145 in Minnesota, 20% lower than the US average of $183. Even with winter tire changes, parking fees, and regular maintenance, transportation costs remain manageable across the state.
- Healthcare costs in Minnesota are 9.24% higher than the US average. A routine check-up is $150, compared to $175 in New York City or $185 in San Francisco. Minnesota offers excellent medical facilities, and ranks among the top states for healthcare quality. If you need emergency care at the renowned Mayo Clinic or University of Minnesota Medical Center, expect an ER visit to cost around $2,200 without insurance.
- Miscellaneous expenses are 3.86% higher than the US median. This covers essential winter gear, gym memberships (averaging $45 to $85 per month), and weekend activities, like trips to the Minnesota State Fair. A family day at the Mall of America costs up to $120, while date nights in downtown Minneapolis may reach $85.
Moving to Minnesota? Be prepared for cold winters and steady costs—but the quality of life is solid. Just make sure your paycheck can keep up with heating bills and everything else! 👉 Next Step: Compare single-family homes in Minnesota.
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Browse Homes For Sale in MinnesotaIs Living in Minnesota Expensive?
With a budget of $416,913.40, here you'll get a spacious townhouse in Minneapolis with a garage and yard. In contrast, the same amount buys a small condo in Denver or a fixer-upper in Seattle. With reasonable food prices, lower utility costs, and affordable transportation, Minnesota offers a high quality of life at a lower cost.
Housing in Minnesota
Utilities in Minnesota
Food and Groceries in Minnesota
Transportation in Minnesota
Healthcare in Minnesota
Miscellaneous Costs in Minnesota
What Salary Do You Need to Live in Minnesota?
- Homeowners spend $95,954.00 per year: Between mortgage payments, insurance, and heating costs during long winters, owning a home in Minnesota, especially in the Twin Cities, requires a solid income. Smaller towns like Duluth or Mankato offer some relief, but expenses remain steady statewide.
- Renters spend $56,318.00 per year: Monthly rent for one- to two-bedroom apartments, along with utilities and transportation, makes this the average annual expense for tenants in most parts of the state. Minneapolis and St. Paul renters will see costs skew higher due to demand.
- Families with kids spend $101,995.00 per year: Childcare, groceries, larger housing, and seasonal costs (like winter gear and indoor activities) push family budgets upward. Dual-income households can manage comfortably, especially outside major urban centers.
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Data provided by Redfin, a national real estate brokerage.



