Bloomington, MN vs. Minneapolis, MN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Bloomington or Minneapolis? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life expenses of living in these two Minnesota cities in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax) for clarity.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare:
| Housing Type | Bloomington | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,800 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $1,950 | $2,400 |
🏆 Winner: Bloomington. A household moving from Minneapolis to Bloomington might save $400/month on housing alone.
Curious about other expenses? Check out our guide on whether you can afford to live in Bloomington based on your monthly budget.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are fairly similar between the two cities, but Bloomington has slightly lower costs:
- Bloomington: $180/month average
- Minneapolis: $210/month average
Both cities experience cold winters that increase heating costs from November through March. Summers are mild, so A/C usage is moderate.
🏆 Winner: Bloomington, but only by about $30/month.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, dining out, and everyday goods cost about 5% less in Bloomington compared to Minneapolis. Expect to spend around $400/month per person on food in Bloomington vs. $420 in Minneapolis.
🏆 Winner: Bloomington, but the difference is minor for most households.
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are the main difference when it comes to government fees:
- Bloomington effective property tax rate: 1.17%
- Minneapolis effective property tax rate: 1.34%
For a $300,000 home, that’s a difference of $510 per year. Bloomington also has slightly lower sales taxes.
🏆 Winner: Bloomington. The lower property taxes can add up, especially for high-value homes.
Cost Summary
| Expense | Bloomington | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450 – $1,950 | $1,800 – $2,400 |
| Utilities | $180 | $210 |
| Groceries | $400 | $420 |
| Transportation | $60 | $75 |
| Taxes | 1.17% property tax | 1.34% property tax |
| Misc | $250 | $275 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,340 – $2,840 | $2,780 – $3,380 |
Lifestyle Fit
Bloomington offers more space for the money, with larger apartments and homes compared to Minneapolis. However, Minneapolis is more walkable and has better public transportation. Commute times are about 20% longer in Bloomington.
The climate and seasons are very similar between the two cities. Summers are mild and winters are cold in both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bloomington more affordable than Minneapolis?
A: Yes, Bloomington is generally 10-15% cheaper than Minneapolis, mainly due to lower housing costs.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Bloomington has lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $1,450/month vs. $1,800/month in Minneapolis.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Bloomington has lower home prices and property taxes, making it more affordable for buyers. A typical mortgage payment on a 3BR home is $1,950/month in Bloomington compared to $2,400/month in Minneapolis.
The Bottom Line
Bloomington offers a lower cost of living overall, with more affordable housing, lower taxes, and slightly cheaper food and utilities. It’s a great fit for families who want more space for their money. However, Minneapolis is more walkable with better transit for car-free living.
Budgeting for a move to Bloomington? Our Bloomington cost of living guide breaks down what you’ll really spend. We also recommend checking out our best moving companies guide to compare quotes and find reliable movers. No matter which city you choose, we hope this comparison helps you make an informed decision!