Cost of Living in Wilkin County, Minnesota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wilkin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wilkin County ranks #248 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 8%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wilkin County, Minnesota
Wilkin County sets the affordability bar
At just 9.7%, Wilkin's rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among these seven Minnesota counties and significantly undercuts the state average of 14.5%. Renters here spend only $561 monthly—a remarkable 39% below the state average rent of $915.
Minnesota's most affordable rental market
Wilkin County ranks among Minnesota's very most affordable counties with a 9.7% rent-to-income ratio and just $561 in monthly rent. This exceptional affordability reflects Wilkin's rural character and strong local wage stability.
Unmatched affordability in the region
Wilkin's $561 monthly rent is the lowest among all comparable counties—40% cheaper than Watonwan ($807) and 75% less than Washington County ($1,637). Home values at $172,300 also undercut most regional peers, making Wilkin a true affordability outlier.
Minimal housing cost burden for all
Renters allocate just 9.7% of income to rent, while homeowners spend roughly 15.6% on monthly owner costs ($907). Wilkin demonstrates that affordable housing is achievable even in rural Minnesota through genuine wage-to-cost alignment.
Wilkin is Minnesota's affordability champion
If maximum affordability is your goal, Wilkin County delivers: rents at just $561 monthly and a 9.7% rent-to-income ratio unmatched in the state. Trade metro amenities for genuine financial breathing room and compare Wilkin's costs to any Minnesota alternative.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wilkin County
Affordability Verdict
Wilkin County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $561/month representing approximately 9.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Wilkin County is $561/month, while owner costs run $907/month. Renting saves approximately $346/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $22,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,871/year. With a median household income of $69,635, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Wilkin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Wilkin County sits 9% less expensive than Traverse County ($617/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wilkin County
Rent Burden
9.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,625
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Wilkin County
Median home value is $172,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,376 vs. your max of $1,625.
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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