Cost of Living in Ruthton, MN

With a cost of living index of 62, Ruthton, MN is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 38% cheaper than the national average and 21% below the Minnesota state average of 82. Ruthton is a small community of 180 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Ruthton's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $775 (41% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $54,100 (82% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.4x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Ruthton is $40,000, which is 47% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 23% 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 Ruthton. The area sees an average annual temperature of 45.1°F, with summers averaging 70°F and winters around 19°F. Annual rainfall totals 29.6 inches spread over roughly 108 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.