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Cost of Living: Minneapolis, MN vs Washington, DC

A data-driven comparison of housing, groceries, transportation, taxes, job market and more. See which city gives you more for your money.

25.0% Washington, DC is more expensive overall
50.0% 50.0% more expensive housing
6.9% 6.9% more expensive groceries
Updated April 2026 · Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau National average = 100

At a Glance

🏠 Housing 50.0% more
Minneapolis
108
Washington
162
🛒 Groceries 6.9% more
Minneapolis
101
Washington
108
🚗 Transportation 15.1% more
Minneapolis
106
Washington
122
🏥 Healthcare 10.0% more
Minneapolis
100
Washington
110
⚡ Utilities 10.5% more
Minneapolis
95
Washington
105

Detailed Breakdown

Category Minneapolis, MN Washington, DC Difference
Overall Cost Index10413025.0% more
Housing10816250.0% more
Median 1BR Rent$1,350$2,20063.0% more
Median Home Price$330,000$620,00087.9% more
Groceries1011086.9% more
Transportation10612215.1% more
Healthcare10011010.0% more
Utilities9510510.5% more

Tax Comparison

Tax Type Minneapolis, MN Washington, DC
State Income Tax9.85% (top)10.75% (top)
State Sales Tax6.88%6.00%
Avg Property Tax Rate1.02%0.56%
Estate / Inheritance TaxYesYes

What You'd Need to Earn

Minneapolis, MN
$76,000
Median household income
Washington, DC
$105,000
Median household income
✅ Good news: Income in Washington outpaces the cost difference, so your purchasing power should hold up.

Salary Equivalent Calculator

Find out what you'd need to earn in Washington to maintain your Minneapolis lifestyle.

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Based on overall cost index: Minneapolis (104) vs Washington (130). This is an estimate for comparison purposes.

Job Market Snapshot

Unemployment Rate
Minneapolis3.2%
Washington4.2%
Job Growth (YoY)
Minneapolis2.5%
Washington2.4%
Top Industries
MinneapolisHealthcare, Finance, Retail
WashingtonGovernment, Defense, Consulting

Quality of Life

Avg Commute
Minneapolis25 min
Washington34 min
Walk Score
Minneapolis69
Washington77
Air Quality (AQI)
Minneapolis36
Washington42
Avg Temperature
Minneapolis45°F
Washington57°F
Population
Minneapolis425,336
Washington689,545

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Planning Your Move?

Here are some helpful resources if you're considering relocating.

🏠 Find ApartmentsBrowse rentals in Minneapolis and Washington → 🚚 Get Moving QuotesCompare prices from top movers → 📈 Check Home ValuesSee real estate trends in both cities → 💼 Search JobsFind open positions in Washington →

Compare Other Cities

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Minneapolis or Washington cheaper to live in?+
Minneapolis is the more affordable option overall. The biggest difference is in housing costs, where the gap is about 50.0%. Day-to-day expenses like groceries and transportation are closer between the two cities.
How much is rent in Minneapolis vs Washington?+
A typical one-bedroom apartment costs around $1,350/month in Minneapolis and $2,200/month in Washington — a difference of about $850 per month.
Which city has lower taxes, Minneapolis or Washington?+
Minnesota has a state income tax of 9.85% (top) and sales tax of 6.88%. District of Columbia has a state income tax of 10.75% (top) and sales tax of 6.00%. Consider all tax types together when evaluating total tax burden, as states with no income tax often compensate with higher sales or property taxes.
Can I afford to move from Minneapolis to Washington?+
Median household income in Minneapolis is $76,000 compared to $105,000 in Washington. Use the salary calculator above to see what you'd need to earn to maintain your current standard of living.
What about buying a home in Minneapolis vs Washington?+
The median home price in Minneapolis is $330,000 versus $620,000 in Washington — a difference of $290,000. Property tax rates also differ: Minnesota averages 1.02% while District of Columbia averages 0.56%.