Cost of Living in McLeod County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McLeod County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
McLeod County ranks #1,593 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McLeod County, Minnesota
McLeod County punches above its weight
McLeod County renters spend 13.9% of income on housing, beating the national average of 14.5% despite higher median rents. At $78,468, the median household income exceeds the national median of $74,755, creating favorable conditions for both renters and homebuyers.
McLeod County leads in income and value
McLeod County's 13.9% rent-to-income ratio sits slightly below Minnesota's state average of 14.5%, with the highest median household income ($78,468) among the eight counties profiled. The median home value of $233,400 reflects stronger property market conditions than regional peers.
McLeod County offers premium positioning
At $906 monthly rent, McLeod County is pricier than most rural neighbors, but the significantly higher median income of $78,468 makes housing costs proportionally manageable. The median home value of $233,400 is the second-highest in the group, reflecting stronger market conditions.
Strong income supports housing investments
Renters allocate $906 monthly and homeowners pay $1,187 on a median household income of $78,468, consuming 13.9% and 18.1% of income respectively. Owner costs are elevated, but the robust income base allows homeowners to manage this burden more comfortably than lower-income neighbors.
McLeod County for ambitious homebuyers
With strong incomes and vibrant housing market conditions, McLeod County suits professionals and established families ready to invest in homeownership. Compare this profile's higher prices and incomes to other Minnesota counties to ensure it aligns with your financial capacity.
Cost of Living Advisory: McLeod County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in McLeod County is affordable. The median rent is $906/month against a median household income of $78,468, putting rent at 13.9% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in McLeod County is $906/month, while owner costs run $1,187/month. Renting saves approximately $281/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $50,871/year. With a median household income of $78,468, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in McLeod County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Minnesota, McLeod County is more affordable than Pope County by roughly 6% ($906/mo vs $851/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McLeod County
Rent Burden
13.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,831
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.2%
of gross income
The median home in McLeod County may be a stretch
Median home value is $233,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,863 vs. your max of $1,831.
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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