Cost of Living in Chisago County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Chisago County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Chisago County ranks #1,976 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 37%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Chisago County, Minnesota
Chisago combines strong income with ease
Chisago County residents earn $98,260—31% above the national median—and spend just 13.6% on rent, the best ratio in this group. This combination of above-average income and below-average affordability burden creates genuine comfort.
Among Minnesota's most livable counties
Chisago's 13.6% rent-to-income ratio beats Minnesota's 14.5% state average, placing it among the easier housing markets in the state. The county balances suburban convenience with income levels that make housing genuinely manageable.
Better affordability than wealthy Carver
Though Chisago's median rent of $1,112 and home values of $326,600 exceed Carlton and most peers, the county's higher incomes ($98,260) produce a better affordability ratio (13.6%) than higher-earning Carver (14.1%). Chisago offers premium housing without premium affordability strain.
Housing stays comfortably proportional
Chisago renters pay $1,112 monthly while homeowners spend $1,643, representing roughly 13-20% of the $98,260 median income. Both renters and buyers maintain healthy housing-to-income margins, unusual for counties with this rental price level.
Chisago rewards solid middle-class earners
If you earn $90,000–$120,000 and want suburban access to Twin Cities employment without Carver's premium pricing, Chisago delivers excellent value. The county proves that housing affordability isn't just about low prices—it's about the right income-to-cost fit.
Cost of Living Advisory: Chisago County
Affordability Verdict
Chisago County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,112/month representing approximately 13.6% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,112/month rent versus $1,643/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $531/month cheaper — a 32% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $44,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $70,414/year. With a median household income of $98,260, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Chisago County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Minnesota, Chisago County is more affordable than Stearns County by roughly 5% ($1,112/mo vs $1,057/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Chisago County
Rent Burden
13.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,293
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.1%
of gross income
The median home in Chisago County may be a stretch
Median home value is $326,600. Estimated monthly cost: $2,607 vs. your max of $2,293.
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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