B+
5%
Overall NAT. AVG.
2%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
16%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Crystal Minnesota National
Cost of living105100100
Groceries102100100
Health care100100100
Housing116100100
Transportation99100100
Utilities105104100
Lifestyle & Entertainment101100100
Household Items99100100
Education & Childcare9599100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Crystal, MN

Getting a feel for the cost of living in Crystal is essential for anyone planning to relocate, as it empowers them to make informed financial decisions, secure a comfortable lifestyle and maintain financial stability in their new environment. The cost of living in Crystal is 105, which is 5% higher than the national average. Relocating individuals may need to adjust their savings and investment strategies based on the cost of living in the new location. It influences decisions about retirement planning, investments and financial goals.

The cost of living in Crystal is about average when compared to all other cities across the nation. You can expect that everyday items like food, household expenses and utility bills will be no more expensive than any other average city. Residents can anticipate living expenses that remain in line with the national average, ensuring a manageable financial burden, making it an attractive choice for those seeking affordability without the constraints of higher everyday expenditures.

Is Crystal Affordable?

Is Crystal an affordable place to live? It's a good question and one that you might want to ask when considering any new city, as affordability can play a huge role in the decision making process. The cost of living index (which we covered above), as well as housing costs and income levels play a vital role in determining the affordability of an area. The median home price in Crystal is 15.2% higher than the national average, while the average monthly rent prices are 17.1% higher than average. The affordability of any location can also be influenced by median income levels. Crystal has a median household income of $105,778, which is 30.1% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Crystal?

Transportation: When public transportation options are limited or non-existent, residents frequently resort to vehicle ownership, which can significantly contribute to the overall cost of living. Monthly financial obligations encompass fuel, insurance, regular maintenance and potentially lease or financing expenses. In Crystal, the transportation index is 1.4% lower than the national average.

Utilities: Much like any other costs, utility expenses can exhibit considerable variations, influenced by factors such as climate, available energy sources, geographic location and state regulations. The costs associated with electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can vary significantly depending on the city or state in question. In Crystal, the utilities index stands at 4.7% higher than the national average.

Taxes: Cities that impose higher taxes, including sales and income taxes, can contribute to an escalated cost of living. The added expense of taxes on everyday goods like clothing and food naturally results in higher overall costs. Similarly, a higher income tax rate can further elevate the cost of living. In Crystal, the general sales tax rate starts at 6.875%, and income tax rates begin at 5.35%.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Crystal shown above is based on a U.S. average baseline score of 100, making it easier to compare how far your dollar may go from one city to another. Housing uses U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all remaining values are AI-assisted estimates informed by regional pricing, climate, transportation dynamics, and local economic factors. These scores are best used for directional comparisons between cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Crystal is 5% higher than the Minnesota average
  • The cost of living in Crystal is 5% higher than the national average
  • Crystal housing is 16% higher than the national average
  • Minnesota general sales tax is 35% higher than the national average
  • Minnesota state income tax is 106% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Crystal

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Compare Crystal, MN Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$125,521$10,460$2,929$3,766
      Renters$59,647$4,971$1,392$1,790
      To approximate the cost of living and the housing affordability in Crystal, MN, we can look at the percentage of income that is available to be spent on monthly housing, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). To stay on the safe side, a consumer should not spend more than 28% of his or her gross income on housing-related expenses and costs and not more than 36% of income on all expenses and debts. Homeowners in Crystal have a median income of $125,521. Therefore, the amount that a consumer should spend on housing costs should be no more than $2,929 per month to avoid calamity and poverty. The renters in the city have an income of about $59,647, which would make their monthly maximum allowable rental costs $1,392.

      Minnesota Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Minnesota 6.875% 7.875%

      Minnesota Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Minnesota 5.35% 9.85%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      South End, MN667822.1%
      Hilltop, MN1,0458020.0%
      St. Anthony city (Stearns County), MN1088416.4%
      Brooklyn Center, MN31,6821021.8%
      Columbia Heights, MN21,0191021.9%
      Crystal, MN23,6181054.8%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Kihei, HI23,61617675.8%
      Dickinson, ND23,6141044.4%
      L'Assomption, QC23,628n/a 
      Farragut, TN23,60712323.3%
      Eastmont, WA23,60314848.2%
      Crystal, MN23,6181054.8%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.