Cost of Living in Jackson County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jackson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jackson County ranks #30 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jackson County, Minnesota
Jackson County leads affordability statewide
Jackson County's rent-to-income ratio of 12.6% ranks among Minnesota's best and beats the national affordability threshold of 30% decisively. The county's median rent of $736 is the state's lowest, while a median income of $69,955 remains competitive for rural areas.
Minnesota's most affordable housing market
Jackson County ranks at the very top of Minnesota's 87 counties for rental affordability, with a 12.6% rent-to-income ratio that reflects exceptional value. The county's low rents and modest incomes create an unusually sustainable housing-cost equilibrium.
Deepest discounts in southwestern Minnesota
Jackson's $736 rent is the lowest in its peer group—nearly $100 cheaper than Grant County's $779 and nearly $200 below Goodhue County's $939. Combined with reasonable incomes, Jackson delivers Minnesota's best absolute affordability.
Housing costs barely dent the budget
Renters spend just $736 while homeowners commit $760 monthly, with homes averaging only $145,400—lowest in the comparison group. Housing claims just 12.6% of the $69,955 median household income, leaving substantial room for savings.
Minnesota's most livable rural county
Jackson County offers the state's lowest rents, lowest home prices, and one of the best rent-to-income ratios—making it ideal for those prioritizing affordability and financial security. If you're relocating for cost of living, Jackson delivers unmatched value across Minnesota.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jackson County
Affordability Verdict
Jackson County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $736/month representing approximately 12.6% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 22.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $736/month rent versus $760/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $24/month cheaper — a 3% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,571/year. With a median household income of $69,955, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Jackson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Jackson County sits 7% more expensive than Mahnomen County ($685/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jackson County
Rent Burden
12.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,632
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jackson County
Median home value is $145,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,161 vs. your max of $1,632.
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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