Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
36% cheaper
Minneapolis is 36% more affordable than Oakland. A $75,000 salary in Oakland is equivalent to $48,182 in Minneapolis.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Minnesota salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Minneapolis has a housing index of 112 while Oakland sits at 264 (national average = 100). The median home in Minneapolis costs $310,000 compared to $780,000 in Oakland, a difference of $470,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Minneapolis versus $2,700 in Oakland.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Minneapolis scores 104 while Oakland scores 109.
Healthcare costs in Minneapolis (105) are lower than Oakland (113).
Median household income in Minneapolis is $64,285 compared to $73,692 in Oakland. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Minneapolis.
Amazon affiliate links