Average Rent in Cook County, MN↑ Rents rising 5.0% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 5,633
Market Overview
Cook County, MN has rental prices ranging from $712/month to $1,492/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $939/month — 33% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $71,643/year, spending $939/month on a 1-bedroom represents 16% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Cook County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,022/month, Cook County ranks #38 most expensive of the 76 cities tracked in Minnesota — pricier than 51% of all US cities in our data.
The Cook County Rental Market
The Cook County, MN area has a population of about 5,633 and 20% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Cook County, MN have risen by $49/month (5.0%) over the past year, from $973 to $1,022. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Cook County, MN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $37,560. The local median household income of $71,643 exceeds that threshold by $34,083, making Cook County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Cook County, MN has an unemployment rate of 3.8%, 0.1 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Cook County, MN Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in MNlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis | $1,265 | $1,427 | $1,734 | $2,264 | — |
| Duluth | $841 | $961 | $1,207 | $1,671 | — |
| Lake County | $848 | $942 | $1,236 | $1,489 | — |
| Fargo | $781 | $903 | $1,104 | $1,529 | — |
| Rochester | $1,183 | $1,226 | $1,422 | $1,969 | — |
| St. Cloud | $884 | $961 | $1,233 | $1,656 | — |
Rent or Buy in Cook County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Cook County data
Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.
Living in Cook County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in Cook CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MNSee how Cook County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Cook CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MN Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections