RentData

Average Rent in Cottonwood County, MN↑ Rents rising 4.2% YoY🔻 3rd cheapest in MN

HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 11,458

Data review: HUD FY2027Sources: HUD, Zillow, Census, BLSMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Cottonwood County, MN has rental prices ranging from $737/month to $1,481/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $824/month — 41% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $68,239/year, spending $824/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Cottonwood County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,014/month, Cottonwood County ranks #74 most expensive of the 76 cities tracked in Minnesota — more affordable than 63% of all US cities in our data.

The Cottonwood County Rental Market

The Cottonwood County, MN area has a population of about 11,458 and 24% 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 Cottonwood County, MN have risen by $41/month (4.2%) over the past year, from $973 to $1,014. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Cottonwood County, MN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $32,960. The local median household income of $68,239 exceeds that threshold by $35,279, making Cottonwood County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Cottonwood County, MN has an unemployment rate of 6.1%, 2.2 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.

Fair Market Rents

HUD FY2027
Studio
$737
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$824
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$1,014
↑4.2% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,404
Affordable
4 Bedrooms
$1,481
Affordable
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Is Cottonwood County, MN Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Affordability Index(30% income rule)

To rent a 2BR
$40,560/year
Local median income: $68,239
To buy a median home
—/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $1,014/month and 20% down on a — home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in MNlargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome 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 Cottonwood County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Cottonwood County data

$
Home Value
$350,000
2BR Rent
$1,014/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,863/mo
🏠 Buy

Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.

Total monthly buy cost: $2,577/movs rent: $1,014/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Living in Cottonwood County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Cottonwood County

Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood

💵Rent Affordability in Cottonwood County

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in MN

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⚖️Compare Cottonwood County

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📋MN Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections