RentData

Average Rent in Norman County, MN↓ Rents falling 0.5% YoY🔻 3rd cheapest in MN

HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 6,411

Data review: HUD FY2025Sources: HUD, Zillow, Census, BLSMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Norman County, MN has rental prices ranging from $640/month to $1,347/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $711/month — 49% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $69,833/year, spending $711/month on a 1-bedroom represents 12% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Norman County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $933/month, Norman County ranks #73 most expensive of the 75 cities tracked in Minnesota — more affordable than 60% of all US cities in our data.

The Norman County Rental Market

The Norman County, MN area has a population of about 6,411 and 18% 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 Norman County, MN have fallen by $5/month (0.5%) over the past year, from $938 to $933. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Norman County, MN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $28,440. The local median household income of $69,833 exceeds that threshold by $41,393, making Norman County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Norman County, MN has an unemployment rate of 4.8%, 0.9 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 FY2025
Studio
$640
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$711
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$933
↓0.5% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,124
Affordable
4 Bedrooms
$1,347
Affordable
🔔
Get Rent Alerts
Be notified when rents change in Norman County
▼

Is Norman 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
$37,320/year
Local median income: $69,833
To buy a median home
—/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $933/month and 20% down on a — home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in MNlargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome Value
Minneapolis$1,220$1,381$1,685$2,244—
Duluth$782$896$1,140$1,538—
Lake County$848$942$1,236$1,489—
Fargo$694$836$1,012$1,418—
Rochester$989$1,101$1,341$1,879—
St. Cloud$856$883$1,151$1,510—

Rent or Buy in Norman County?

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

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Norman County data

$
Home Value
$350,000
2BR Rent
$933/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,863/mo
🏢 Rent

Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.

Total monthly buy cost: $2,577/movs rent: $933/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Living in Norman County

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

Moving Cost Estimator

Estimate your moving costs based on FMCSA public mover data

Select your origin state to see the estimate

Estimates based on FMCSA average mover rates. Get at least 3 binding quotes from licensed movers. Protect your move →

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore More

🏘️Neighborhoods in Norman County

Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood

💵Rent Affordability in Norman County

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in MN

See how Norman County ranks statewide

⚖️Compare Norman County

Side-by-side rent & cost of living with any city

📋MN Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections