Cost of Living in Mower County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mower County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mower County ranks #2,116 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 33%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mower County, Minnesota
Mower's housing fits middle-class budgets
Mower County's 14.2% rent-to-income ratio sits just below the national standard, meaning renters here spend a typical share of income on housing despite earning $71,495—roughly $3,000 below the national median. This balance reflects a county where moderate incomes stretch further than in many corners of America.
Slightly above Minnesota's affordability line
Mower County's 14.2% rent-to-income ratio nudges above Minnesota's 14.5% average, placing it comfortably but not spectacularly in the state's affordability rankings. At $848 monthly rent compared to the state average of $915, renters still pocket about $67 in savings each month.
Mid-range costs in a varied landscape
Mower's $848 rent sits between the bargain-basement Norman County ($752) and pricier Nicollet County ($931), reflecting its position as a moderate regional market. The county's $172,000 median home value is the lowest among its peer counties, making it especially attractive for first-time buyers.
Renters pay more than homeowners proportionally
Renters in Mower County dedicate 14.2% of income to housing, while owners spend roughly 16.7% on monthly mortgage payments for homes averaging $172,000. The $172,000 home value—lowest in the region—gives homeowners a real advantage, though both housing types remain affordable by state standards.
Smart choice for budget-conscious buyers
Mower County's $172,000 median home value and $994 monthly ownership costs represent some of Minnesota's best entry points to homeownership. Compare it with neighboring Morrison's $237,000 homes or Olmsted County's $304,500 average to see how much your down payment stretches in this rural market.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mower County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Mower County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $848/month in gross rent, with 27.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Mower County pay $848/month on average, compared to $994/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 15%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $42,600/year. With a median household income of $71,495, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Mower County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Minnesota, Mower County is less affordable than Becker County by roughly 6% ($848/mo vs $899/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mower County
Rent Burden
14.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,668
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Mower County
Median home value is $172,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,373 vs. your max of $1,668.
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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