Minneapolis vs Pittsburgh: cost of living compared
Pittsburgh is 19% cheaper than Minneapolis overall. State income tax tops out around 3.07% in PA 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 Minneapolis compared to Pittsburgh. This difference is largely driven by housing expenses, which are significantly more affordable in Pittsburgh. While some other categories show smaller gaps, the substantial difference in housing costs is the primary factor contributing to Minneapolis's higher overall expense level when compared to Pittsburgh.
Housing
Housing costs present a major contrast, with both median home prices and typical rental rates being considerably lower in Pittsburgh. Minneapolis's housing market is more expensive, reflecting a higher demand. Pittsburgh offers a mix of older, established homes and newer developments, often with more space for the money. Property taxes and insurance costs can vary, but the initial purchase or rental price difference is substantial.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses also show differences. Pittsburgh generally offers lower costs for groceries and healthcare. Transportation costs are roughly similar between the two metros. A significant difference lies in state income tax, which is substantially lower in Pennsylvania than in Minnesota, impacting take-home pay and overall daily spending power for residents in Pittsburgh.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Minneapolis experiences distinct four-season weather, including cold, snowy winters and warm summers, with a generally flatter topography. Pittsburgh has a more varied terrain with hills and rivers, offering a different urban landscape and a climate with milder winters and humid summers. Both cities have established public transit, but Minneapolis is known for its extensive park system and biking infrastructure, while Pittsburgh's geography influences its neighborhood character.
Bottom line
For households considering a move, Pittsburgh generally presents a more budget-friendly option, primarily due to its significantly lower housing costs and more favorable state income tax. While some other daily expenses are also lower in Pittsburgh, the substantial savings on housing are the biggest differentiator. Minneapolis, though more expensive, offers a distinct lifestyle and climate, but comes with a higher financial commitment for most households.
| Measure | Minneapolis, MN | Pittsburgh, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 108 | 88 |
| Housing index | 94 | 64 |
| Transportation index | 98 | 98 |
| Food index | 102 | 95 |
| Healthcare index | 105 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 108 | 102 |
| Misc index | 98 | 88 |
| Median home price | $328,000 | $218,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,450/mo | $1,050/mo |
| Average commute | 27 min | 28 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Pittsburgh home with the True Cost Calculator.