Average Rent in Otter Tail County, MN
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 60,281
Market Overview
Otter Tail County, MN has rental prices ranging from $649/month to $1,381/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $721/month — 48% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $70,912/year, spending $721/month on a 1-bedroom represents 12% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Otter Tail County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $946/month, Otter Tail County ranks #26 most expensive of the 75 cities tracked in Minnesota — pricier than 55% of all US cities in our data.
The Otter Tail County Rental Market
The Otter Tail County, MN area has a population of about 60,281 and 21% 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 Otter Tail County, MN have risen by $2/month (0.2%) over the past year, from $944 to $946. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Otter Tail County, MN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $28,840. The local median household income of $70,912 exceeds that threshold by $42,072, making Otter Tail County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Otter Tail County, MN has an unemployment rate of 4.6%, 0.7 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 FY2025Is Otter Tail 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 | $1,220 | $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 Otter Tail County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Otter Tail County data
Buying breaks even after 5 years — worth it if you stay 5+ years.
Living in Otter Tail County
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Otter Tail CountySalary needed to afford rent here
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