A+
8%
Overall NAT. AVG.
2%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
18%
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 Marshall Minnesota National
Cost of living92100100
Groceries98100100
Health care95100100
Housing82100100
Transportation93100100
Utilities104104100
Lifestyle & Entertainment93100100
Household Items95100100
Education & Childcare9899100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Marshall, MN

Understanding the cost of living in Marshall can help future residents assess whether their current financial situation aligns with the expenses they will encounter. It enables them to plan for potential changes in their budget and lifestyle. The Marshall cost of living index is 92, which is 8% lower than the national average. The cost of living index is calculated by taking into account multiple categories, which encompass both the cost of everyday expenditures and larger expenses as well.

The cost of living in Marshall aligns closely with the national average when compared to other cities across the nation. Everyday essentials such as groceries, household expenses, health care and utility bills are priced at a level consistent with the average in similar urban areas. Marshall residents can anticipate that their daily expenses won't be significantly higher than those in an average city, ensuring that the cost of living remains manageable.

Is Marshall Affordable?

Is Marshall affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Marshall, the median home price is 12.8% lower than the national average and monthly rent prices are 29.8% lower than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Marshall boasting a median household income of $72,722, 10.6% lower than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Marshall?

Groceries: Grocery prices have seen substantial hikes in the last 2-3 years, with some markets witnessing food cost increases of over 20% during this period. Conversely, certain markets have experienced only moderate upticks. These variations in food expenses can have a substantial impact on the overall cost of living in any locality. In Marshall, the groceries index is 2.1% lower than the national average.

Urbanization: Urban areas with a wealth of amenities and employment opportunities tend to come with a higher price tag for living. Why? Well, more people want to be there, which drives up home prices and rents. On the flip side, less densely populated rural areas or places where there's not as much demand usually mean fewer attractions, things to do and slower job growth. That often results in a lower cost of living.

Housing: High demand for housing in desirable locations can drive up property prices and rental rates. This can be a primary contributor to a higher cost of living. While low demand for housing, especially in undesirable locations, can have the reverse effect and drive prices down, resulting in a lower cost of living. The housing index in Marshall, is 17.9% lower than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The Marshall cost of living data above is designed around a U.S. average baseline of 100, allowing for easy comparisons of relative living costs. Housing incorporates U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other figures are AI-assisted estimates that account for regional price trends, climate, transportation dynamics, and common everyday expenses. These values are best used as directional city-to-city comparisons.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Marshall is 8% lower than the Minnesota average
  • The cost of living in Marshall is 8% lower than the national average
  • Marshall housing is 18% lower 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 Marshall

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Compare Marshall, 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$112,587$9,382$2,627$3,378
      Renters$43,352$3,613$1,011$1,301
      A good indicator of the general affordability of housing in Marshall, MN, is the percentage of monthly income that should be spent on housing expenses, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Generally speaking, no more than 28 percent of your total gross income should be spent on your housing expenses and not more than 36 percent of your gross income on total expenses, including debts. In Marshall, the median monthly income is $112,587 for those who own their own homes. Under the standard rule, that income level would allow for $2,627 to be budgeted for housing expenses each month, at the most. Renters, on the other hand, earn about $43,352, per the median income in the area. That would allow for renters to spend up to $1,011 on monthly rental expenses.

      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.
      Taunton, MN1647821.8%
      Milroy, MN1938317.0%
      Wood Lake, MN3958416.2%
      Tracy, MN2,2448217.8%
      Balaton, MN6228317.3%
      Marshall, MN14,075927.9%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      St. Helens, OR14,07811414.0%
      Lockhart, TX14,070963.8%
      Forest City, FL14,08111716.7%
      Andrews, TX14,081981.8%
      Royse City, TX14,0811088.3%
      Marshall, MN14,075927.9%
      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.