Cost of Living in Fergus Falls, MN

With a cost of living index of 73, Fergus Falls, MN is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 27% cheaper than the national average and 9% below the Minnesota state average of 82. Fergus Falls is a smaller community of 14,138 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Fergus Falls's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $839 (36% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $173,300 (43% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.4x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Fergus Falls is $50,865, which is 32% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 20% 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.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Fergus Falls. The area sees an average annual temperature of 42.5°F, with summers averaging 68°F and winters around 14°F. Annual rainfall totals 24.1 inches spread over roughly 92 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

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.