Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
6% cheaper
Phoenix is 6% more affordable than Minneapolis. A $75,000 salary in Minneapolis is equivalent to $70,755 in Phoenix.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Minnesota salaries ยท Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Minneapolis has a housing index of 112 while Phoenix sits at 102 (national average = 100). The median home in Minneapolis costs $310,000 compared to $350,000 in Phoenix, a difference of $40,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Minneapolis versus $1,400 in Phoenix.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Minneapolis scores 104 while Phoenix scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Minneapolis (105) are higher than Phoenix (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Minneapolis is $64,285 compared to $57,459 in Phoenix. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Phoenix.
Amazon affiliate links