Cost of Living in Dakota County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dakota County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dakota County, Minnesota
Dakota County's housing costs rank steep nationally
Dakota County's 17.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the nation's most expensive, despite a robust median income of $105,212 that exceeds the national average by $30,457. Renters pay $1,497 monthly—substantially above national norms—reflecting the county's position as Minnesota's southern metro.
Minnesota's priciest housing county overall
Dakota County leads Minnesota in housing costs relative to income, with a 17.1% rent-to-income ratio and $1,497 median rent far above the state average of 14.5% and $915. Its $362,100 median home value is the highest among all surveyed Minnesota counties, reflecting Twin Cities metro dynamics.
Dakota towers over rural Minnesota peers
Dakota's $1,497 rent and $362,100 home values dwarf those of surrounding rural counties like Dodge ($1,007 rent, $267,500 home) and Douglas ($896 rent, $291,700 home). The gap reflects Dakota's status as an affluent metro suburb with sustained demand and limited inventory.
Housing consumes 17.1% to 19.4% of income
Renters allocate $1,497 monthly while homeowners spend $1,696 on a $105,212 median income—17.1% and 19.4% respectively. Despite higher absolute income than elsewhere in Minnesota, Dakota residents devote a larger percentage to housing, compressing other budget categories.
Dakota offers metro access at a premium
Dakota County appeals to dual-income households seeking suburban stability, excellent schools, and proximity to Twin Cities jobs—but expect to pay top dollar. Expect $1,497 for rent or $362,100 for a home, trading affordability for urban connectivity.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dakota County
Rent Burden
17.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,455
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.3%
of gross income
The median home in Dakota County may be a stretch
Median home value is $362,100. Estimated monthly cost: $2,891 vs. your max of $2,455.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.