Minneapolis, MN vs. Saint Paul, MN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Contrary to popular belief, Minneapolis is not always more expensive than neighboring Saint Paul. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Minneapolis and Saint Paul, perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these Twin Cities in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare:
| Housing Type | Minneapolis | Saint Paul |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $380,000 |
🏆 Winner: Saint Paul. Housing costs, both renting and buying, tend to be 10-15% lower in Saint Paul compared to Minneapolis.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, with minor differences:
- In Minneapolis, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2BR apartment. Costs may be slightly higher in winter.
- Saint Paul utility costs average $160/month, with less seasonal fluctuation.
🏆 Winner: Saint Paul, but only by a small margin. Utility costs are comparable.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs and everyday purchases like dining out are nearly identical in Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Budget around $400-500/month for groceries for a couple. Restaurant prices are reasonable in both cities, with plenty of affordable options.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are a wash between these two cities.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both Minneapolis and Saint Paul have relatively high income tax rates compared to the national average. Sales tax is 8.025% in Minneapolis vs 7.625% in Saint Paul.
Property taxes are also slightly lower in Saint Paul at 1.15% vs 1.25% in Minneapolis. However, some desirable Minneapolis neighborhoods have lower tax rates.
🏆 Winner: Saint Paul. While the difference is minor, Saint Paul comes out ahead on taxes.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Minneapolis | Saint Paul |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Home) | $2,500 | $2,100 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Groceries | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation | $130 | $110 |
| Taxes (Property) | $470 | $365 |
| Misc Expenses | $350 | $350 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,130 | $3,585 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Saint Paul is more affordable overall, each city has its own lifestyle tradeoffs to consider:
- Minneapolis has a vibrant downtown and slightly better access to jobs, dining, and entertainment. But living space is tighter and pricier.
- Saint Paul offers more affordable housing, especially for families who need space. But the tradeoff is a longer commute to downtown Minneapolis jobs.
7. FAQ
Is Minneapolis more affordable than Saint Paul?
No, Saint Paul is generally more affordable, especially for housing. See our full cost of living breakdown for Minneapolis.
Which city has lower rent?
Saint Paul has lower average rent prices. A household moving from Minneapolis to Saint Paul could save $200+ per month on a 2BR apartment.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Saint Paul has lower median home prices, property taxes, and home ownership costs overall compared to Minneapolis.
8. Conclusion
While Minneapolis and Saint Paul are similar in many ways, Saint Paul comes out ahead in affordability, especially for housing costs. A household moving from Minneapolis to Saint Paul might save $400/month or more in total living expenses.
However, the best fit depends on your lifestyle needs and priorities. Use our sample monthly budgets for Minneapolis to estimate your costs in each city. And if you decide to make the move, check out our 2025 moving company picks.