Average Rent in Steele County, MN↓ Rents falling 3.4% YoY

Steele County, MN has rental prices ranging from $728/month to $1,721/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $784/month — 44% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $83,448/year, spending $784/month on a 1-bedroom represents 11% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Steele County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,025/month, Steele County ranks #18 most expensive of the 75 cities tracked in Minnesota — pricier than 67% of all US cities in our data.

The Steele County Rental Market

The Steele County, MN area has a population of about 37,413 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 Steele County, MN have fallen by $36/month (3.4%) over the past year, from $1,061 to $1,025. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Steele County, MN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,360. The local median household income of $83,448 exceeds that threshold by $52,088, making Steele County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Steele County, MN has an unemployment rate of 5.4%, 1.5 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.

Is Steele County, MN Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in Steele County?

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

Living in Steele County

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