Cost of Living in Carlton County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Carlton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Carlton County ranks #1,622 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 48%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Carlton County, Minnesota
Carlton matches the national affordability norm
Carlton County residents spend 14.5% of their income on rent, matching the national benchmark exactly. With a median household income of $80,042—well above the national median of $74,755—renters here enjoy better income cushion than many Americans.
Right in the Minnesota middle
Carlton's 14.5% rent-to-income ratio ties it exactly with Minnesota's state average, placing it squarely in the middle of the affordability spectrum across Minnesota's 87 counties. This stability reflects a balanced relationship between local wages and housing costs.
More affordable than nearby Carver
Carlton's median rent of $967 is $477 cheaper than Carver County's $1,444, though Carlton residents earn $43,102 less annually. Cook County to the north offers similar rent ($886) and comparable affordability at 14.8%.
Housing costs stay in balance here
Carlton renters average $967 monthly while homeowners spend $1,312, with both representing manageable shares of the $80,042 median income. Combined rental and ownership costs suggest roughly 14-20% of household budgets go to housing.
Carlton offers stable, balanced living
If you're seeking housing stability without dramatic cost burdens, Carlton's balanced affordability metrics and income levels make it a practical choice. The county's rental parity with national standards means your housing costs won't surprise you—they'll be predictable.
Cost of Living Advisory: Carlton County
Affordability Verdict
Carlton County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $967/month representing approximately 14.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $967/month rent versus $1,312/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $345/month cheaper — a 26% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $56,229/year. With a median household income of $80,042, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Carlton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Carlton County sits 6% more expensive than Aitkin County ($912/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Carlton County
Rent Burden
14.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,868
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Carlton County
Median home value is $232,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,852 vs. your max of $1,868.
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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