Cost of Living in Wadena County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wadena County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wadena County ranks #406 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 13%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wadena County, Minnesota
Wadena struggles despite low rents
Wadena County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio matches national averages, but the $56,882 median income—the lowest in this eight-county sample—reveals underlying economic strain. The $706 monthly rent is affordable, yet even modest rents consume a significant share of below-average earnings.
Slightly above Minnesota's average pressure
At 14.9%, Wadena County's ratio edges above Minnesota's 14.5% state average, despite the $706 rent running below the state median of $915. The gap reflects Wadena's lower income base, which amplifies housing burden even when rents are competitive.
Lowest income with modest rents
Wadena County's $706 rent is the second-lowest in the cluster (after Traverse at $617), yet the $56,882 income is the lowest—creating proportional strain. Only Swift County ($62,601) comes close to Wadena's income constraints.
Low income limits affordability gains
Renters spend $706 monthly while homeowners invest $883, with a median home value of $170,500. At 14.9% of a $56,882 income, Wadena residents dedicate a concerning share to rent alone, leaving minimal room for savings or unexpected expenses.
Only for those with external income
Wadena County's low rents won't overcome limited local employment and wages without supplemental income like remote work or pensions. Consider this market only if your income is secure and independent of local job prospects.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wadena County
Affordability Verdict
Wadena County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $706/month — about 14.9% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Wadena County is $706/month, while owner costs run $883/month. Renting saves approximately $177/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $37,843/year. With a median household income of $56,882, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Wadena County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Wadena County sits 7% less expensive than Renville County ($760/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wadena County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,327
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.6%
of gross income
The median home in Wadena County may be a stretch
Median home value is $170,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,361 vs. your max of $1,327.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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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.
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