Cost of Living in Washington County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #1,832 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 42%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Minnesota
Washington County rents exceed national standards
Washington's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio significantly outpaces both the national average and Minnesota's 14.5% benchmark. Despite strong median incomes of $114,457, renters here pay $1,637 monthly—79% above the state average rent.
Among Minnesota's pricier rental markets
Washington County ranks as one of Minnesota's more expensive counties for renters, with a 17.2% rent-to-income ratio that exceeds the state average by 2.7 percentage points. This premium reflects the county's proximity to the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area and strong regional demand.
Significantly pricier than rural alternatives
Washington's $1,637 monthly rent nearly doubles what renters pay in nearby rural counties like Waseca ($819) or Wilkin ($561). Home values tell a similar story: Washington's $400,900 median home price far exceeds surrounding counties, reflecting its suburban desirability.
High incomes offset substantial housing costs
While renters pay 17.2% of income to housing, homeowners allocate roughly 18.5% of income to monthly owner costs ($1,762). Washington's above-average incomes ($114,457) help justify these housing expenses, though affordability remains tighter than state and rural peers.
Washington suits higher earners seeking suburbs
If you're earning well above the national median and value metro-area proximity, Washington County's costs become more manageable despite premium pricing. However, those seeking maximum affordability should compare Washington's 17.2% rent ratio to counties like Wilkin (9.7%) or Watonwan (13.7%).
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Washington County is affordable. The median rent is $1,637/month against a median household income of $114,457, putting rent at 17.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Washington County pay $1,637/month on average, compared to $1,762/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 7%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $65,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $75,514/year. With a median household income of $114,457, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Washington County sits 9% more expensive than Dakota County ($1,497/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
17.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,671
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.5%
of gross income
The median home in Washington County may be a stretch
Median home value is $400,900. Estimated monthly cost: $3,201 vs. your max of $2,671.
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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