2026 Compare Cities Cost of Living:
Forest, VA vs Ham Lake, MN

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Highlights
Is it cheaper to live in Ham Lake or is it cheaper to live in Forest?
- Ham Lake is 11.8% more expensive than Forest.

Which city has more affordable housing, Ham Lake or Forest?
- Ham Lake housing costs are 41.6% more expensive than Forest housing costs.

Is Health Care more affordable in Forest or is Health Care more affordable in Ham Lake.
- Health related expenses are 28.9% less in Ham Lake.
 Forest, VAHam Lake, MNUnited States
 Overall  Unlock104.6100
 Food & Groceries101.4  Unlock100
 Health  Unlock74.4100
 Housing102.3  Unlock100
 Median Home Cost  Unlock$437,400$338,100
 Utilities102  Unlock100
 Transportation  Unlock117.4100
 Miscellaneous117.8  Unlock100
100 = National Average (Below 100 means cheaper than the US average. Above 100 means more expensive.)
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Reviews for Forest    1 Reviews

I moved to Forest a little over a year ago. I have to say that the peace and quiet agrees with me. I love the beautiful scenic view, the lack of crowds, and the  More

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Reviews for Ham Lake    1 Reviews

They have a 1 acre lot minimum in Ham Lake so you're not right on top of your neighbor. Quiet area with wildlife in the back yard. You can get to Minneapolis/St Paul in  More

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