Cost of Living in Martin County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Martin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Martin County ranks #658 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 21%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Martin County, Minnesota
Martin County nearly matches national norms
Martin County renters spend 14.0% of income on housing, nearly aligned with the national average of 14.5%. However, the median household income of $62,969 trails the national median of $74,755, creating a tighter affordability picture despite modest rent levels.
Martin County sits at state average
Martin County's 14.0% rent-to-income ratio tracks almost exactly with Minnesota's state average of 14.5%, placing it squarely in the middle of the state's affordability ranking. At $735 monthly rent—$180 below the state median—renters find moderate savings.
Martin County blends regional options
Martin County's $735 rent is competitive with nearby Lyon County ($742) and Marshall County ($737), while its median home price of $158,800 sits mid-range for the region. The lower median income of $62,969 means housing costs weigh slightly more than in neighboring counties.
Housing costs reach state threshold
Renters pay $735 monthly and homeowners pay $838 on a median household income of $62,969, consuming 14.0% and 16.0% of income respectively. The owner cost ratio edges above comfort levels, suggesting homeownership requires careful financial planning.
Martin County for careful planners
Martin County offers reasonable rent but requires attention to homeownership costs, particularly for middle-income households considering purchase. Review your job prospects and income stability before committing, as housing costs leave limited financial margins.
Cost of Living Advisory: Martin County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Martin County is affordable. The median rent is $735/month against a median household income of $62,969, putting rent at 14.0% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Martin County is $735/month, while owner costs run $838/month. Renting saves approximately $103/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,914/year. With a median household income of $62,969, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Martin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Martin County sits 8% less expensive than Wabasha County ($798/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Martin County
Rent Burden
14.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,469
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Martin County
Median home value is $158,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,268 vs. your max of $1,469.
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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