Cost of Living in Stevens County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Stevens County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Stevens County ranks #225 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 7%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Stevens County, Minnesota
Stevens stands out as a housing bargain
Stevens County residents enjoy a 14.1% rent-to-income ratio—well below the national benchmark—while earning $71,060 median annually, which is about 5% below the national median. The $833 monthly rent represents exceptional affordability in the Midwest, making Stevens one of the most accessible counties nationally.
Among Minnesota's most affordable counties
At 14.1%, Stevens County beats Minnesota's 14.5% state average, signaling stronger rental affordability than most of the state. The $833 median rent runs $82 below Minnesota's state average, reflecting the rural character and lower cost structure of the area.
Cheapest rent in the region
Stevens County's $833 rent is the lowest among all eight counties surveyed, undercut only by Traverse County's exceptional $617. For renters, Stevens offers significant savings compared to Stearns ($1,057) or Steele ($1,006) while maintaining reasonable income levels.
Ultra-affordable housing landscape
Renters pay just $833 monthly while homeowners invest $887, with a median home value of only $180,800. Stevens residents allocate just 14.1% of their $71,060 income to rent, leaving substantially more room for savings and discretionary spending than most Minnesota counties.
Budget-conscious seekers, look here
Stevens County offers genuine housing bargains for renters and modest homebuyers willing to embrace rural Minnesota. The low cost of living here frees up income for other priorities—an advantage worth serious consideration.
Cost of Living Advisory: Stevens County
Affordability Verdict
Stevens County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $833/month representing approximately 14.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Stevens County is $833/month, while owner costs run $887/month. Renting saves approximately $54/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,014/year. With a median household income of $71,060, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Stevens County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Minnesota, Stevens County is more affordable than Morrison County by roughly 7% ($833/mo vs $782/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Stevens County
Rent Burden
14.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,658
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Stevens County
Median home value is $180,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,443 vs. your max of $1,658.
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 Stevens County, Minnesota?
What is the median rent in Stevens County?
Is Stevens County affordable?
How does Stevens County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Stevens County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Stevens County, Minnesota? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Stevens 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.