Which City Is More Affordable: Eden Prairie or Saint Paul?

Eden Prairie, MN vs. Saint Paul, MN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)

Picture this: It’s 2025 and you’re apartment hunting in the Twin Cities metro area. In Eden Prairie, a typical 2-bedroom unit rents for around $1,800 per month. Groceries for a family of three average $650. Now, let’s compare that to Saint Paul. The same size apartment goes for roughly $1,550, while groceries come in closer to $600 monthly.

As the figures show, cost of living often plays a central role when people weigh the merits of Eden Prairie vs. Saint Paul. Both cities have their charms — Eden Prairie offers more elbow room and stellar schools, while Saint Paul puts you in the heart of the action with unbeatable access to jobs, culture, and city life. But for many relocators, renters, and homebuyers, the bottom line in 2025 comes down to one key question: Where can I afford the lifestyle I want?

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the cost of living factors that separate Eden Prairie and Saint Paul, from big-ticket items like housing to everyday expenses like utilities and groceries. Whether you’re a young professional seeking the perfect launch pad or a growing family in need of more space, you’ll come away with a clearer picture of which city fits your budget and priorities in 2025 and beyond.

1. Housing Costs

Housing often consumes the largest share of a household budget, so it’s no surprise that for many, the Eden Prairie vs. Saint Paul debate hinges on the cost of putting a roof overhead. Let’s start with homebuyers: In 2025, the median home price in Eden Prairie hovers around $525,000, reflecting the city’s abundance of newer construction and spacious single-family homes. Saint Paul, by contrast, offers a median price closer to $325,000, thanks to its larger supply of modest starter homes and fixer-uppers.

Renters will find a similar dynamic at play. A mid-range 2-bedroom apartment in Eden Prairie typically runs $1,700 to $2,000 per month, while in Saint Paul, you can snag a comparable unit for $1,400 to $1,700. That said, Saint Paul offers fewer brand-new luxury rentals, so renters seeking high-end upgrades and amenities may find more options in Eden Prairie’s newer apartment complexes.

Of course, these are city-wide medians — drilling down to the neighborhood level reveals pockets of affordability and luxury in both cities. In Eden Prairie, for instance, you’ll find lower rents and home prices in the older neighborhoods around Flying Cloud Airport, while the amenity-rich districts near Eden Prairie Center command top dollar. Similarly, Saint Paul’s historic Summit Hill and St. Anthony Park neighborhoods tend to price higher than areas farther from the urban core.

What do these housing cost differences mean for different types of households? Young singles and couples may find Saint Paul’s lower rents more manageable, especially if they value easy access to downtown jobs and nightlife over maximum square footage. Families, on the other hand, may prefer Eden Prairie’s more spacious homes and newer apartments, particularly if they plan to grow into their space over time. And for those looking to build long-term equity, Eden Prairie’s higher purchase prices could pay off down the road — though Saint Paul’s lower entry point may be easier to afford in the near term.

All told, budget-conscious home shoppers will likely find their dollars stretch further in Saint Paul in 2025, while those willing to spend more for space and amenities may prefer the options in Eden Prairie. But with both cities spanning a range of price points and housing types, the “right” choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities.

2. Utilities and Energy Costs

Utility costs are another key line item in the Eden Prairie vs. Saint Paul living expense ledger. Let’s start with the good news: Both cities benefit from Minnesota’s relatively low energy rates, with electricity prices well below the national average. That said, total utility costs can vary significantly depending on the size, age, and efficiency of your home.

In Eden Prairie, where the housing stock skews newer and larger, typical monthly utility bills (including electricity, gas, water, and sewer) range from $180 for a small apartment to $350+ for a spacious single-family home. Saint Paul residents, meanwhile, often report lower bills overall — $140 to $250 monthly — thanks in part to the city’s smaller average home sizes and more compact multifamily buildings.

It’s worth noting that utility costs can swing significantly between seasons in both cities. Minnesota’s frigid winters mean higher heating bills from November through March, while summer air conditioning can cause a spike from June through August. Some residents take advantage of budget billing plans from utility providers like Xcel Energy to smooth out these seasonal fluctuations.

Utility cost differences between the two cities are relatively modest overall, with Saint Paul eking out a slight advantage thanks to its smaller, more efficient housing stock. Still, utility bills are highly dependent on individual usage patterns and home characteristics, so it’s worth crunching the numbers based on your specific situation.

3. Groceries and Daily Expenses

Feeding a household is another major expense category where Eden Prairie and Saint Paul offer some notable contrasts. Let’s start at the grocery store: In Eden Prairie, a gallon of milk runs about $3.50, a loaf of bread $2.75, and a pound of chicken breasts $4.50. Those same staples in Saint Paul? Closer to $3.25, $2.50, and $4.25, respectively.

What accounts for Eden Prairie’s slightly higher grocery bills? In part, it’s a reflection of the city’s higher median income and larger concentration of high-end supermarkets like Lunds & Byerlys and Kowalski’s. Budget-conscious shoppers can still find deals at stores like Cub Foods and Aldi, but may have to venture a bit farther afield. Saint Paul, by contrast, offers a wider range of affordable grocery options, from discount chains to international markets catering to the city’s diverse immigrant communities.

Dining out reveals a similar pattern. A meal for two at a mid-range Eden Prairie restaurant averages $60 to $80, while in Saint Paul, you can enjoy a comparable spread for $50 to $70. Of course, both cities offer a spectrum of price points, from cheap eats to special-occasion splurges. But in general, Saint Paul’s restaurant scene is a bit more diverse and affordable, with standout options in categories like Thai, Ethiopian, and Mexican cuisine.

Ultimately, grocery and dining costs may be a bit higher overall in Eden Prairie, but the difference is relatively modest — perhaps 10-15% on average. Savvy shoppers and diners can find ways to economize in both cities, whether that means seeking out discount grocers, taking advantage of happy hour specials, or cooking more meals at home.

4. Taxes and Fees

Taxes and fees are another factor that can shift the Eden Prairie vs. Saint Paul cost of living balance. The most significant difference lies in property taxes: Eden Prairie’s effective property tax rate stands at 1.15%, while Saint Paul’s comes in higher at 1.50%. For a $400,000 home, that translates to an annual tax bill of $4,600 in Eden Prairie versus $6,000 in Saint Paul.

Sales taxes follow a similar pattern, with Eden Prairie collecting 7.525% on most purchases compared to Saint Paul’s 7.875% rate. That means a $100 shopping trip would incur $7.53 in taxes in Eden Prairie versus $7.88 in Saint Paul — a small but noticeable difference that can add up over time.

Both cities also levy a range of municipal fees for services like trash collection, water, and sewer. In Eden Prairie, a typical household pays around $30 per month for curbside trash and recycling pickup, plus $40 to $60 for water and sewer based on usage. Saint Paul residents pay slightly less for trash service ($25 monthly) but a bit more for water and sewer ($50 to $70).

Fees can also vary based on specific living situations. For instance, many Eden Prairie neighborhoods have homeowners associations (HOAs) that charge monthly or annual dues for shared amenities and maintenance. These fees can range from $50 to $500+ per month depending on the community and services provided. While Saint Paul has some HOA neighborhoods as well, they tend to be less common and less costly than in Eden Prairie.

All told, taxes and fees tilt the cost of living equation modestly in Eden Prairie’s favor, particularly for homeowners. However, the specific impact on your budget will depend on factors like your home’s value, your shopping and usage habits, and whether you’re subject to additional fees like HOA dues.

5. Cost Summary Table

*Estimates reflect typical costs for a mid-size household (2BR apartment or 3BR home) in 2025 using published rates and regional averages. Actual expenses vary based on lifestyle, household size, and neighborhood choice.

As the table shows, living costs in Eden Prairie generally run about 15-20% higher than in Saint Paul across major expense categories like housing, utilities, and groceries. For a typical household, that translates to roughly $625 more in monthly expenses, or $7,500 over the course of a year. However, these figures are highly variable based on individual circumstances. A single renter with modest needs may find the cost gap considerably smaller, while a high-income family in a large home may see an even wider gulf.

6. Lifestyle Fit

Of course, cost of living is just one piece of the Eden Prairie vs. Saint Paul puzzle. Equally important is how each city’s amenities and lifestyle mesh with your needs and preferences. Let’s start with a key consideration for many: commute times.

Eden Prairie residents average a 22-minute one-way commute, thanks in part to the city’s proximity to major employers like Optum, C.H. Robinson, and Starkey Hearing Technologies. Saint Paul commutes average 24 minutes, reflecting the city’s denser development pattern and wider range of transit options, including light rail and bus rapid transit.

Those transit options are one factor in Saint Paul’s higher walk score (73 vs. Eden Prairie’s 45), which measures the ease of accomplishing daily errands on foot. Saint Paul’s grid-like street layout and mixed-use development pattern make it relatively easy to walk or bike to shops, restaurants, and parks, while Eden Prairie’s more dispersed, car-centric design means residents often drive even for short trips.

The two cities also offer distinct recreational and cultural amenities. Eden Prairie boasts an extensive park system, highlighted by 17 lakes and over 170 miles of multi-use trails. The city’s community center is a hub for sports, fitness, and arts programs, while the Eden Prairie Center mall offers a range of shopping and entertainment options.

Saint Paul, meanwhile, is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions. The city’s cultural scene is anchored by institutions like the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, the Science Museum of Minnesota, and the Minnesota Museum of American Art. Sports fans can catch a Saints game at CHS Field or cheer on the Wild at the Xcel Energy Center.

Lifestyle considerations can also impact cost of living in subtle ways. For instance, Saint Paul’s higher walk score could mean lower transportation costs for residents who can forgo car ownership. Similarly, Eden Prairie’s abundance of parks and trails may reduce the need for pricey gym memberships or entertainment expenses.

Ultimately, the “right” lifestyle fit depends on your individual priorities and stage of life. Young professionals may gravitate toward Saint Paul’s vibrant urban neighborhoods and easy access to downtown jobs, while families might prefer Eden Prairie’s top-notch schools and kid-friendly amenities. Empty nesters and retirees may appreciate Saint Paul’s walkability and cultural offerings, or Eden Prairie’s quieter pace and natural beauty. By weighing these factors alongside the bottom-line cost of living, you can arrive at the choice that best aligns with your needs and budget in 2025.

7. Frequently Asked Questions

Is Eden Prairie more affordable than Saint Paul in 2025?
On average, living costs in Eden Prairie run about 15-20% higher than in Saint Paul as of 2025. However, the specific cost difference depends on factors like housing type, neighborhood choice, and lifestyle preferences.

Are rental prices lower in Eden Prairie or Saint Paul?
Rental prices are generally lower in Saint Paul, with a typical 2BR apartment going for around $1,550 per month compared to $1,800 in Eden Prairie. However, Eden Prairie offers a larger selection of newer, amenity-rich rental properties.

How do grocery costs compare between Eden Prairie and Saint Paul?
Grocery costs are slightly higher in Eden Prairie, with staples like milk, bread, and chicken averaging about 5-10% more than in Saint Paul. However, both cities offer a range of grocery options at various price points.

Are property taxes higher in Saint Paul than in Eden Prairie?
Yes, Saint Paul’s effective property tax rate of 1.50% is higher than Eden Prairie’s 1.15% rate. For a $400,000 home, that translates to an annual tax bill of $6,000 in Saint Paul versus $4,600 in Eden Prairie.

What is the average monthly cost of living for a family of four in Eden Prairie vs. Saint Paul?
As of 2025, a typical family of four can expect to spend around $4,250 per month on housing, utilities, groceries, and other essentials in Eden Prairie. In Saint Paul, that figure is closer to $3,625 per month.

Conclusion

As this cost of living comparison shows, Eden Prairie and Saint Paul each offer distinct advantages and trade-offs for relocators, renters, and homebuyers in 2025. Eden Prairie’s higher housing