Average Rent in Pope County, MN↓ Rents falling 3.1% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 11,363
Market Overview
Pope County, MN has rental prices ranging from $702/month to $1,358/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $781/month — 44% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $72,205/year, spending $781/month on a 1-bedroom represents 13% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Pope County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,024/month, Pope County ranks #19 most expensive of the 75 cities tracked in Minnesota — pricier than 67% of all US cities in our data.
The Pope County Rental Market
The Pope County, MN area has a population of about 11,363 and 17% 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 Pope County, MN have fallen by $33/month (3.1%) over the past year, from $1,057 to $1,024. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Pope County, MN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,240. The local median household income of $72,205 exceeds that threshold by $40,965, making Pope County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Pope County, MN has an unemployment rate of 4.2%, 0.3 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 Pope 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 Pope County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Pope County data
Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.
Living in Pope County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Pope CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MNSee how Pope County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Pope CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
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