Average Rent in Watonwan County, MN↑ Rents rising 4.2% YoY🔻 3rd cheapest in MN
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 11,169
Market Overview
Watonwan County, MN has rental prices ranging from $706/month to $1,333/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $842/month — 40% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $70,593/year, spending $842/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Watonwan County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,014/month, Watonwan County ranks #74 most expensive of the 76 cities tracked in Minnesota — more affordable than 63% of all US cities in our data.
The Watonwan County Rental Market
The Watonwan County, MN area has a population of about 11,169 and 22% 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 Watonwan 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 Watonwan County, MN without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $33,680. The local median household income of $70,593 exceeds that threshold by $36,913, making Watonwan County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Watonwan 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 FY2027Is Watonwan 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 | $1,265 | $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 Watonwan County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Watonwan County data
Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.
Living in Watonwan 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 Watonwan CountySalary needed to afford rent here
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