Cost of Living in Roseau County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Roseau County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Roseau County ranks #942 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 30%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Roseau County, Minnesota
Roseau Aligns with Minnesota Average
Roseau County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.4% sits nearly level with Minnesota's 14.5% average and tracks the national affordability benchmark closely. Median rent of $886 per month slightly exceeds the state's $915 average, while the $73,611 median household income falls just below the $74,755 national median.
Roseau Mirrors State Norms
With a rent-to-income ratio nearly identical to Minnesota's statewide average, Roseau County ranks squarely in the middle for state affordability. This positioning reflects a rural, working-class economy where housing pressures remain manageable despite modest wage levels.
Northern Minnesota's Middle Ground
Roseau County's $886 rent falls between Rock County's bargain rates ($745) and St. Louis County's premium pricing ($970), positioning it as a northern Minnesota middle option. Home values of $177,100 similarly split the difference between rural counties like Renville ($151,900) and higher-cost peers like Rice ($298,500).
Balanced Housing-to-Income Costs
Renters spend $886 monthly while homeowners allocate $1,019, together consuming roughly 14% of the $73,611 median household income. This alignment with state averages reflects Roseau's position as a representative rural Minnesota county without dramatic affordability pressures or bargains.
Roseau for Stable Rural Living
If you seek predictable, middle-of-the-road Minnesota affordability, Roseau County delivers exactly that—no surprises, fair housing costs, and a working-class community vibe. Compare it to pricier metros like Scott County or lower-cost bargains like Rock County, and you'll find a steady middle path.
Cost of Living Advisory: Roseau County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Roseau County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $886/month in gross rent, with 25.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $886/month rent versus $1,019/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $133/month cheaper — a 13% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $43,671/year. With a median household income of $73,611, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Roseau County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Goodhue County where rent averages $939/month, Roseau County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Roseau County
Rent Burden
14.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,718
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Roseau County
Median home value is $177,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,414 vs. your max of $1,718.
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 Roseau County, Minnesota?
What is the median rent in Roseau County?
Is Roseau County affordable?
How does Roseau County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Roseau County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Roseau County, Minnesota? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Roseau 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.