Cost of Living in Lutsen, MN

With a cost of living index of 93, Lutsen, MN is slightly more affordable than average. Living here is 7% cheaper than the national average and 11% above the Minnesota state average of 82. Lutsen is a small community of 234 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Lutsen's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,013 (23% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $347,500 (14% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.4x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Lutsen is $78,750, which is 5% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 15% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Lutsen. The area sees an average annual temperature of 39.5°F, with summers averaging 58°F and winters around 18°F. Annual rainfall totals 25.9 inches spread over roughly 130 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.