Hartford vs Minneapolis: cost of living compared
Minneapolis is 8% cheaper than Hartford overall. State income tax tops out around 5.5% in CT vs 7.05% in MN.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Overall, the cost of living is noticeably higher in Hartford compared to Minneapolis. This difference is largely driven by significantly higher utility costs in Hartford, which create a substantial gap in everyday expenses. While housing costs are roughly similar between the two cities, other daily necessities like food and healthcare also contribute to Hartford's higher overall expense profile, making Minneapolis the more budget-friendly option for general living.
Housing
When considering housing, median home prices and typical rents for a one-bedroom apartment are somewhat higher in Minneapolis. Hartford offers a slight advantage in both buying and renting, though the difference is not dramatic. Both cities feature a mix of historic and newer properties, with Hartford's housing stock often reflecting its New England character. Prospective residents should factor in property taxes and insurance, which can vary.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses show a clear distinction. Hartford residents face considerably higher utility costs, which is a major factor in the overall cost difference. Food and healthcare expenses are also somewhat higher in Hartford. Regarding state income tax, Minnesota's top marginal rate is noticeably higher than Connecticut's. Transportation costs are roughly similar, with both metros offering options for getting around without a car.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Minneapolis experiences colder winters with more snow, while Hartford has a more moderate climate with distinct seasons. Both cities offer urban amenities and access to nature. Minneapolis is known for its extensive park system and lakes, while Hartford, a New England city, has a different urban feel. Both have established public transit systems, though the character and extent of these services differ, influencing daily commutes.
Bottom line
Moving between Hartford and Minneapolis means adjusting to different budget realities. While housing costs are comparable, Hartford's significantly higher utility expenses and somewhat higher costs for food and healthcare mean a greater financial outlay for daily living. The difference in state income tax rates also impacts take-home pay. Minneapolis generally offers a more economical daily existence, despite slightly higher housing prices.
| Measure | Hartford, CT | Minneapolis, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 108 |
| Housing index | 86 | 94 |
| Transportation index | 100 | 98 |
| Food index | 108 | 102 |
| Healthcare index | 112 | 105 |
| Utilities index | 148 | 108 |
| Misc index | 108 | 98 |
| Median home price | $298,000 | $328,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,350/mo | $1,450/mo |
| Average commute | 27 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Minneapolis home with the True Cost Calculator.