Cost of Living in Ramsey County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ramsey County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ramsey County, Minnesota
Ramsey County's rental burden hits national ceiling
Ramsey County residents face a rent-to-income ratio of 19.2%—sharply above the national average of 14.5%—making it the most housing-burdened county in this group. Despite the county's highest median household income of $81,004, the median rent of $1,298 consumes nearly one-fifth of earnings.
Minnesota's rental affordability crisis center
Ramsey County's 19.2% rent-to-income ratio vastly exceeds Minnesota's 14.5% state average, revealing acute housing stress in the state's urban core. The median rent of $1,298 towers 42% above the state median of $915.
Rents skyrocket; ownership costs highest
Ramsey's $1,298 monthly rent dwarfs rural peers like Pipestone ($731) and Redwood ($767), nearly doubling costs. Homeowners face $1,536 monthly—again, the highest by far—reflecting median home values of $304,900.
Income barely keeps pace with housing costs
Ramsey County's $81,004 median income is offset by $1,298 rent (19.2% of income) and $1,536 owner costs (22.8% of income). Both ratios exceed recommended affordability thresholds, straining household budgets despite the county's strong income base.
Ramsey demands deep pockets; consider suburbs
Ramsey County's metro amenities come at a steep housing cost—the highest in this entire group. If you're relocating to the Twin Cities, compare Ramsey's tight 19.2% rent ratio against more affordable rural counties to find better value.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ramsey County
Rent Burden
19.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,890
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.8%
of gross income
The median home in Ramsey County may be a stretch
Median home value is $304,900. Estimated monthly cost: $2,434 vs. your max of $1,890.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.