Cost of Living in Pennington County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Pennington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Pennington County ranks #2,192 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 30%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Pennington County, Minnesota
Pennington's rent burden slightly above national norm
Renters in Pennington County spend 14.9% of their income on housing, slightly above the national average of 14.5%. While the county's median household income of $72,561 trails the U.S. median by $2,194, housing costs remain manageable by national standards.
Middle of the pack in Minnesota affordability
Pennington County ranks near the state average for rental affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio that nearly matches Minnesota's 14.5% statewide average. The median rent of $900 is slightly below the state median of $915.
Cheaper than Pine, similar to Polk
Pennington's $900 monthly rent undercuts neighboring Pine County ($873) and compares favorably to Polk County ($843). However, homeownership costs in Pennington ($1,076/month) are notably higher than in rural Pipestone ($787) or Redwood ($784) counties.
Housing takes a modest slice of income
On a median income of $72,561, renters spend $900 monthly while homeowners pay $1,076—totaling about 15% and 18% of household income respectively. The affordability gap between renting and owning widens in Pennington, where median home values reach $188,900.
Consider Pennington for balanced housing costs
If you're weighing relocation, Pennington offers housing costs near national averages with a decent income base. Compare it to Red Lake County's exceptional 9.7% rent burden or Ramsey County's tight 19.2% ratio to find your affordability sweet spot.
Cost of Living Advisory: Pennington County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Pennington County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $900/month in gross rent, with 23.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $900/month rent versus $1,076/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $176/month cheaper — a 16% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $46,114/year. With a median household income of $72,561, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Pennington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Pennington County sits 6% more expensive than Mower County ($848/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Pennington County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,693
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Pennington County
Median home value is $188,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,508 vs. your max of $1,693.
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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