Cost of Living in Cottonwood County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Cottonwood County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Cottonwood County ranks #362 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Cottonwood County, Minnesota
Cottonwood rents remain affordable nationally
At 13.4%, Cottonwood County's rent-to-income ratio sits below the national norm, meaning renters here spend less of their earnings on housing than typical Americans. This advantage reflects both modest rents—$765 monthly—and a stable income base of $68,239, though that trails the national median by $6,516.
Best rental affordability in Minnesota
Cottonwood County ranks among Minnesota's most affordable for renters, with a 13.4% rent-to-income ratio well below the state average of 14.5%. The county's $765 median rent is $150 less than Minnesota's average, making it a standout for budget-conscious households.
Southern Minnesota's affordability leader
Compared to nearby Faribault County ($837 rent) and Freeborn County ($837 rent), Cottonwood offers the lowest rental costs in the region while maintaining comparable incomes. Its $154,000 median home value is the most accessible for buyers among its southern Minnesota neighbors.
Housing takes modest 13.4% of income
Renters spend $765 monthly while homeowners pay $835, with both figures leaving substantial breathing room in Cottonwood's median $68,239 household budget. Together, housing represents only 13.4% of income for renters and 14.7% for owners—well within the sustainable 30% threshold.
Relocate here for genuine affordability
If you're priced out of Minnesota's metro areas, Cottonwood County delivers genuine affordability without sacrificing community stability or homeownership potential. Rent runs $150-170 below state average, and a $154,000 median home value makes ownership accessible on a modest income.
Cost of Living Advisory: Cottonwood County
Affordability Verdict
Cottonwood County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $765/month representing approximately 13.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 22.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Cottonwood County pay $765/month on average, compared to $835/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 8%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,786/year. With a median household income of $68,239, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Cottonwood County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Minnesota, Cottonwood County is less affordable than Waseca County by roughly 7% ($765/mo vs $819/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Cottonwood County
Rent Burden
13.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,592
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Cottonwood County
Median home value is $154,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,229 vs. your max of $1,592.
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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