Side-by-side comparison of home prices, mortgage payments, and housing costs between Bloomington and Plymouth, Minnesota. Using Minnesota's 1.12% property tax rate and $2,100/year insurance. Updated for 2026.
Bloomington edges out Plymouth in affordability, saving you roughly $560/month on total housing costs. Both cities are in Minnesota, so property tax rates and insurance costs are the same — the difference comes down to home prices and what you get for your money in each market.
Estimated PITI payments assuming 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed mortgage with PMI. Uses Minnesota's 1.12% property tax rate.
Buying in Bloomington saves you approximately $560/month ($6,720/year) compared to Plymouth, based on median home prices with identical loan terms.
Bloomington is the better choice for first-time buyers, with a median price of $335K versus $415K in Plymouth. That's $80K less to save for a down payment. You'd need roughly $12K for an FHA 3.5% down payment in Bloomington, compared to $15K in Plymouth. Minnesota offers the Minnesota Housing Start Up program (Up to $18,000 deferred loan) which applies in both cities.
Bloomington has the better price-to-rent ratio at 19.7x versus 21.3x in Plymouth. A lower ratio generally signals better rental income relative to purchase price. Average rent in Bloomington is $1,420/month on a $335K median home, making it a stronger candidate for buy-and-rent investors.
Bloomington (pop. 89,987) offers more amenities, schools, and services typical of a larger city, while Plymouth (pop. 81,026) may offer a quieter, more community-oriented lifestyle. Bloomington offers both more options and lower housing costs, making it attractive for families who want urban amenities without a premium price.