Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lincoln County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lincoln County ranks #84 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 3%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Minnesota
Lincoln County beats the national average
Renters in Lincoln County spend just 12.2% of their income on housing, significantly better than the 14.5% national benchmark for affordability. With a median household income of $67,715—slightly below the national median of $74,755—residents still manage to keep housing costs lean.
Among Minnesota's most affordable
Lincoln County ranks as one of the most housing-affordable counties in Minnesota, with its 12.2% rent-to-income ratio well below the state average of 14.5%. The median gross rent of $688 is notably lower than Minnesota's state average of $915, offering genuine relief for renters.
Lincoln County's rural advantage
Compared to nearby Lyon County ($742/month rent) and Marshall County ($737/month rent), Lincoln County offers the cheapest rental market in the region at $688. Homebuyers will find similar value, with a median home price of $152,200—among the lowest in southwestern Minnesota.
Housing takes a modest bite
Renters spend $688 monthly while homeowners pay $777, with both well below state norms. On a median household income of $67,715, these costs consume just 12.2% and 13.8% of income respectively, leaving room for other expenses.
Considering Lincoln County? Compare wisely.
If affordable rural housing is your priority, Lincoln County delivers competitive rents and home prices that don't drain your wallet. Compare this profile to neighboring counties and state averages to see how Lincoln stacks up for your specific needs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lincoln County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Lincoln County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $688/month in gross rent, with 24.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Lincoln County pay $688/month on average, compared to $777/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 11%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $33,300/year. With a median household income of $67,715, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Lincoln County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Lincoln County sits 7% less expensive than Clearwater County ($740/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lincoln County
Rent Burden
12.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,580
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lincoln County
Median home value is $152,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,215 vs. your max of $1,580.
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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