Cost of Living in Blue Earth County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Blue Earth County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Blue Earth County ranks #2,411 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 23%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Blue Earth County, Minnesota
Blue Earth faces affordability pressure
Blue Earth County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% ranks among the highest in this analysis, exceeding the national average of 14.5% by over 3 percentage points. At $1,076 monthly rent, this county charges premium prices relative to local household incomes of $72,623.
Above Minnesota's affordability average
Blue Earth County's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio places it among Minnesota's least affordable counties, significantly above the state average of 14.5%. The $1,076 median rent is the highest in this county set, straining local budgets despite respectable household incomes.
Premium rents for a regional center
Blue Earth's $1,076 median rent far exceeds rural neighbors like Big Stone ($718), Becker ($899), and Aitkin ($912), though it undercuts metro areas like Anoka ($1,396). This pricing reflects Blue Earth's status as a regional commercial hub with higher-demand housing.
Housing dominates Blue Earth budgets
Renters here pay $1,076 monthly while homeowners shoulder $1,229—the second-highest owner costs in this county set—on a $72,623 median income. Combined, housing approaches 32% of household income, leaving limited funds for other necessities and savings.
Premium pricing for regional convenience
Blue Earth offers more amenities and job diversity than rural peers, but expect to pay a premium: median rents and homeowner costs are among the state's highest outside metro areas. If you're relocating here, secure employment at or above median income—otherwise housing costs will strain your budget significantly.
Cost of Living Advisory: Blue Earth County
Affordability Verdict
Blue Earth County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,076/month — about 17.8% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,076/month rent versus $1,229/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $153/month cheaper — a 12% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $52,671/year. With a median household income of $72,623, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Blue Earth County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Blue Earth County sits 7% more expensive than Dodge County ($1,007/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Blue Earth County
Rent Burden
17.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,695
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.3%
of gross income
The median home in Blue Earth County may be a stretch
Median home value is $252,800. Estimated monthly cost: $2,018 vs. your max of $1,695.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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