Woodbury, MN vs. Brooklyn Park, MN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Woodbury vs Brooklyn Park. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of living in Woodbury vs Brooklyn Park in 2025.
Imagine two identical households, one in each city. The Woodbury family pays $1,800 per month for a 3-bedroom house. In Brooklyn Park, a similar home rents for $1,600. When the Woodbury family goes grocery shopping, their weekly bill comes to $180. The Brooklyn Park family spends $160 for the same items. Over a year, the Woodbury household would spend $2,400 more on housing and $1,040 more on groceries. Let’s dive deeper into how the average monthly expenses in Woodbury and Brooklyn Park compare.
Housing Costs
| Housing Type | Woodbury | Brooklyn Park |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment | $1,400 | $1,200 |
| 3BR House | $1,800 | $1,600 |
🏆 Winner: Brooklyn Park
Utilities and Energy Costs
In Woodbury, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash service for a 3-bedroom home. Winter heating bills are typically higher than summer cooling costs. Brooklyn Park utility costs average $160 per month, with less seasonal variation.
🏆 Winner: Brooklyn Park
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices in Woodbury tend to be about 10% higher than in Brooklyn Park. A gallon of milk averages $4.20 in Woodbury compared to $3.80 in Brooklyn Park. Dining out is also pricier in Woodbury, with fast-casual meals around $12-15 vs $10-12 in Brooklyn Park.
🏆 Winner: Brooklyn Park
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes in Woodbury are slightly higher, averaging 1.2% of assessed value compared to 1.1% in Brooklyn Park. City service fees like water and sewer are comparable. HOA fees in Woodbury tend to include more amenities and average $250/month, while Brooklyn Park HOAs are around $200/month.
🏆 Winner: Brooklyn Park
Cost Summary Table
| Category | Woodbury | Brooklyn Park |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR) | $1,800 | $1,600 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Groceries | $800 | $700 |
| Transportation | $120 | $100 |
| Taxes (1.2% / 1.1%) | $360 | $275 |
| Misc | $250 | $200 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,510 | $3,035 |
Lifestyle Fit
Woodbury offers larger lots and more upscale amenities, but with less walkability. Commutes into Minneapolis average 10-15 minutes longer from Woodbury than Brooklyn Park. However, Woodbury has highly-rated schools that can be worth the tradeoff for families.
Brooklyn Park provides an easier commute, more public transit options, and greater affordability. Its urban-suburban feel appeals to young professionals. Brooklyn Park is also more diverse, with a minority-majority population compared to Woodbury’s 80% white demographic.
FAQ Section
- Is Woodbury more affordable than Brooklyn Park?
- No, Brooklyn Park has a lower overall cost of living.
- Which city has lower rent?
- Brooklyn Park has lower rent prices for comparable housing.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
- Home prices and property taxes are lower in Brooklyn Park.
Conclusion
For most lifestyles, Brooklyn Park offers a lower cost of living than Woodbury. Families seeking top schools and more space may prefer Woodbury, but at a $400+ monthly premium. Young professionals, commuters, and budget-conscious households will likely find Brooklyn Park more affordable.
Considering other Twin Cities suburbs? Check out our cost of living comparisons for popular cities in Minnesota.