Cost of Living in Meeker County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Meeker County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Meeker County ranks #798 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 25%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Meeker County, Minnesota
Meeker County slightly above national average
Meeker County renters spend 14.3% of income on housing, slightly exceeding the national average of 14.5%—a near-perfect match. The median household income of $75,037 tracks closely with the national median of $74,755, creating a balanced affordability profile.
Meeker County tracks state average
Meeker County's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio sits just below Minnesota's state average of 14.5%, placing it near the middle of the state's affordability rankings. At $894 monthly rent, renters pay slightly below the state median of $915, finding modest savings.
Meeker County sits in regional middle
At $894 monthly rent, Meeker County is pricier than smaller neighbors like Lincoln County ($688) and Lyon County ($742), but comparable to Mille Lacs County ($909). The median home value of $228,900 reflects stronger property conditions than the most rural counties in the group.
Moderate costs with solid incomes
Renters allocate $894 monthly and homeowners pay $1,128 on a median household income of $75,037, consuming 14.3% and 18.1% of income respectively. Owner costs approach stress levels, but the solid median income provides more cushion than lower-income rural neighbors.
Meeker County for balanced seekers
With near-national-average affordability and solid income levels, Meeker County appeals to renters and cautious homebuyers seeking stability. Compare this county's conditions to similar-sized Minnesota communities to find your best fit.
Cost of Living Advisory: Meeker County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Meeker County is affordable. The median rent is $894/month against a median household income of $75,037, putting rent at 14.3% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Meeker County is $894/month, while owner costs run $1,128/month. Renting saves approximately $234/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,343/year. With a median household income of $75,037, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Meeker County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Kandiyohi County where rent averages $843/month, Meeker County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Meeker County
Rent Burden
14.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,751
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
The median home in Meeker County may be a stretch
Median home value is $228,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,827 vs. your max of $1,751.
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 Meeker County, Minnesota?
What is the median rent in Meeker County?
Is Meeker County affordable?
How does Meeker County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Meeker County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Meeker County, Minnesota? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Meeker 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.