Cost of Living in Rochester, MN
2026 data for Rochester, MN • Population: 126,417
+11% more expensive than the US average (100)
1-Bedroom Rent
Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment
2-Bedroom Rent
Average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment
Median Income
Median household income in Rochester
Population
Estimated population of Rochester
How Far Does Your Salary Go?
A salary in Rochester has different purchasing power than the national average. Use the equivalence below to understand what your salary is worth compared to the US average.
Formula: Your salary in Rochester ÷ COL index × 100 = equivalent national salary. A $45,045 national salary gives you the same purchasing power as $50,000 in Rochester.
Housing Affordability Analysis
Rent as % of Income
For a 1-bedroom apartment at median income. Experts suggest under 30% is affordable.
Monthly Rent to Income
Ratio of monthly income to monthly 1-bedroom rent.
What is a Cost of Living Index?
A cost of living index measures the relative cost of goods and services in a city compared to a national baseline (set at 100). An index of 150 means the city is 50% more expensive than average. An index of 80 means it's 20% cheaper than average.
The index typically includes housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare—the major expense categories for households.
Compare with Other Cities
See how Rochester's cost of living stacks up against nearby and similar cities.
Financial Tools to Explore
Use these Pulsafi calculators to plan your finances based on Rochester's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown Calculator
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Rent vs Buy Calculator
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Budget Calculator
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Mortgage Calculator
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Cost of Living Guide for Rochester, MN
Overview
Rochester has a cost of living index of 111, making it 11% more expensive than the national average. With a population of 126,417 and a median household income of $62,345, understanding the true cost of living here is essential for financial planning.
Housing Market
The housing market in Rochester reflects its cost of living index. A one-bedroom apartment averages $1,600 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment costs approximately $2,050 per month. For renters, this typically consumes 30.8% of the median household income—above the recommended 30% threshold.
Income and Affordability
With a median household income of $62,345, Rochester residents earn slightly above the national median. When factoring in the local cost of living, a salary of $67,568in Rochester provides the same purchasing power as $75,000 nationally.
Moving to Rochester
Whether you're relocating for work or considering a move, understanding the cost of living in Rochester is crucial. Use our calculators to determine if your salary can support your desired lifestyle here. Consider not just rent, but also food, utilities, transportation, and healthcare when budgeting.
Saving and Investing
Once you understand your cost of living in Rochester, you can better plan your savings and investment strategy. Our financial tools help you determine how much you can realistically save each month and optimize your financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cost of Living in Rochester
How does the cost of living in Rochester compare to the national average?
Rochester has a cost of living index of 111, which means it's 11% more expensive than the US average of 100. This affects everything from housing to groceries and utilities.
Is a $67,568 salary good for Rochester?
A salary in Rochester has different purchasing power than elsewhere. A $67,568 salary in Rochester provides the same purchasing power as $75,000 nationally. Compare your salary to the median income of $62,345 to gauge your earning potential.
Can you afford to rent in Rochester?
With a median household income of $62,345, a one-bedroom apartment averaging $1,600 per month consumes 30.8% of income. Financial experts recommend keeping rent under 30% of gross income—this is above that threshold.
Related Data for Rochester, MN
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