Cost of Living in Albert Lea, MN

With a cost of living index of 72, Albert Lea, MN is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 28% cheaper than the national average and 11% below the Minnesota state average of 82. Albert Lea is a smaller community of 18,379 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Albert Lea's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $845 (36% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $150,400 (51% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.4x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Albert Lea is $62,522, which is 17% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 16% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.