Cost of Living in Middle River, MN

With a cost of living index of 52, Middle River, MN is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 48% cheaper than the national average and 31% below the Minnesota state average of 82. Middle River is a small community of 281 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Middle River's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $313 (76% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $103,500 (66% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.8x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Middle River is $57,188, which is 24% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 7% 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 Middle River. The area sees an average annual temperature of 37.7°F, with summers averaging 63°F and winters around 8°F. Annual rainfall totals 24.3 inches spread over roughly 117 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.