2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Detroit Lakes, MN vs Rochester, MN

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Highlights
Are people in Rochester older or younger than people in Detroit Lakes?
- The Median Age in Rochester is 4.9 years younger than in Detroit Lakes.

Are housing costs cheaper in Rochester or Detroit Lakes?
- Rochester housing costs are 14.4% less expensive than Detroit Lakes housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Rochester or Detroit Lakes?
- The average commute for residents of Rochester is 0.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Detroit Lakes.

Things to do in Detroit Lakes?
Detroit Lakes, MN is a small city located in Becker County. It has a population of just under 9,000 people, making it an ideal place for those looking for a quiet, tight-knit community. The town is home to many parks and recreational areas such as Detroit Mountain Recreation Area and Detroit Lakes City Beach. It also boasts several shopping centers and restaurants within walking distance of the downtown area. Families can enjoy the many annual festivals celebrating local culture like the Summer Jamboree and Winter Fest, which offer plenty of opportunities to socialize with neighbors. With its charming atmosphere and family friendly environment, it's easy to see why so many people choose to call Detroit Lakes home.

Things to do in Rochester?
Rochester, Minnesota is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Midwest. Home to the renowned Mayo Clinic and University of Minnesota-Rochester, this city offers plenty to explore. From its variety of shopping options to its multitude of museums and cultural attractions, visitors can experience something unique. Visitors can also take advantage of the area's parks and trails for a breath of fresh air and connect with nature. Whether you're looking for an educational experience or a leisurely weekend getaway, Rochester has something for everyone!

 Detroit Lakes, MNRochester, MNUnited States
 Population  Unlock119,732329,725,481
 Median Income$57,229  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$340,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.05  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Detroit Lakes    1 Reviews

Over 20 years ago

Detroit lakes in a nice quiet  More

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Reviews for Rochester    31 Reviews

Roch (and Minnesota) is a great place IF you live off the govt dole; subsidize undesirable things (through generous welfare benefits, lax law enforcement and sentences,  More

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Rochester is very vanilla. As a progressive, this place is not good. The area leans conservative and you'll see Trump signs everywhere... so that tells you the type of  More

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Over 6 years ago

I moved here over 20 years ago from California and I was in shock for the first couple of years that people actually lived in such a cold climate! Winter starts around  More

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