Cost of Living in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Kandiyohi County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Kandiyohi County ranks #1,977 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 37%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota
Kandiyohi beats national rent affordability
Kandiyohi County residents spend just 13.5% of their median household income of $75,097 on rent—better than the national comfort zone and above the national average income. Monthly rents of $843 are modest compared to the national trend, giving renters here a genuine affordability advantage.
Below-average rent burden statewide
Kandiyohi's 13.5% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below Minnesota's 14.5% state average, putting the county among the more affordable regions in the state. At $843 per month, median rent trails the state average of $915 by $72, reflecting lower housing pressure.
Kandiyohi offers competitive rental pricing
Kandiyohi renters pay $843 monthly, competing favorably with Kittson County ($728) while offering stronger median incomes of $75,097 versus Kittson's $69,615. This balance of reasonable rents and solid wages makes Kandiyohi one of the region's more accessible housing markets.
Balanced costs across renters and owners
Renters in Kandiyohi dedicate 13.5% of their income to housing, while homeowners pay $1,151 monthly for homes valued at $230,500. The modest rent burden leaves households with more disposable income compared to state and national averages, providing financial breathing room.
A solid choice for budget-conscious relocators
Kandiyohi delivers below-average rent costs with above-average local incomes—a rare combination that benefits renters and first-time buyers alike. If you're relocating and prioritize affordability without sacrificing wage potential, Kandiyohi deserves serious consideration against pricier Minnesota alternatives.
Cost of Living Advisory: Kandiyohi County
Affordability Verdict
Kandiyohi County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $843/month representing approximately 13.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 24.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Kandiyohi County is $843/month, while owner costs run $1,151/month. Renting saves approximately $308/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $49,329/year. With a median household income of $75,097, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Kandiyohi County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Kandiyohi County sits 6% less expensive than Meeker County ($894/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Kandiyohi County
Rent Burden
13.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,752
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.4%
of gross income
The median home in Kandiyohi County may be a stretch
Median home value is $230,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,840 vs. your max of $1,752.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota?
What is the median rent in Kandiyohi County?
Is Kandiyohi County affordable?
How does Kandiyohi County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Kandiyohi County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Kandiyohi County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.