Cost of Living in Steele County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Steele County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Steele County, Minnesota
Steele meets national affordability benchmark
Steele County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.5% matches the national standard, making housing costs predictable for renters earning $83,448 median annually. At $1,006 monthly rent, Steele offers solid affordability compared to many U.S. counties, though incomes here run 11.5% above the national median.
Right at Minnesota's state average
Steele County's 14.5% rent-to-income ratio exactly mirrors Minnesota's average, positioning it as a typical affordability county within the state. The $1,006 median rent sits just $91 above the state average, reflecting balanced supply and demand in the local rental market.
Middle ground between rural and urban
Steele County's $1,006 rent runs slightly above Stevens ($833) but below Stearns ($1,057), making it a moderate option in this cluster. Its $83,448 median income—the highest among these eight counties—gives residents more breathing room despite moderate housing costs.
Balanced renting and homeownership
Renters spend $1,006 monthly while homeowners invest $1,258 in monthly costs, with a median home value of $234,200. At 14.5% of the $83,448 median household income, Steele residents allocate a reasonable share to housing while maintaining flexibility for savings.
Solid choice for affordability-conscious movers
Steele County delivers competitive rents and above-average wages, making it attractive for renters or first-time homebuyers. Compare it to Stearns if you want lower housing costs or to Wabasha if you prioritize homeownership on a similar budget.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Steele County
Rent Burden
14.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,947
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Steele County
Median home value is $234,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,870 vs. your max of $1,947.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Steele County, Minnesota?
What is the median rent in Steele County?
Is Steele County affordable?
How does Steele County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Steele County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Steele County, Minnesota? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Steele 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.