Cost of Living in Swift County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Swift County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Swift County, Minnesota
Swift strains on lower incomes
Swift County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio is the highest among these eight counties and significantly above the national average, placing housing affordability under stress. Despite the $900 monthly rent being moderate, the $62,601 median household income—16% below national average—means housing costs consume an outsized portion of residents' earnings.
Most strained in Minnesota sample
Swift County's 17.3% ratio exceeds Minnesota's 14.5% average by nearly 3 percentage points, making it the least affordable county in this eight-county cluster. The combination of below-state-average income ($62,601 vs. state context) and mid-range rents ($900) creates genuine affordability challenges for local renters.
Tight margins despite modest rents
Swift County's $900 rent sits between Stevens ($833) and Stearns ($1,057), but the lower $62,601 income makes the burden proportionally heavier here. Among rural neighbors, only Wadena County ($56,882 income) faces worse affordability pressures.
Income challenges drive affordability gap
Renters spend $900 monthly while homeowners invest $761, with a median home value of $147,100—the lowest in this group. At 17.3% of a $62,601 income, Swift residents dedicate a concerning share to rent, leaving little margin for emergencies or savings.
Consider employment prospects carefully
Swift County's low housing costs won't offset income constraints unless you're relocating for higher-wage work. Compare carefully with higher-income counties like Steele or Stearns before committing to a move.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Swift County
Rent Burden
17.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,461
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Swift County
Median home value is $147,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,174 vs. your max of $1,461.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Swift County, Minnesota?
What is the median rent in Swift County?
Is Swift County affordable?
How does Swift County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Swift County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Swift County, Minnesota? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Swift 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.