Minnesota, known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, offers a diverse range of cities and towns to call home. If you're looking for affordable living options in this beautiful state, we've compiled a list of the top eight cheapest places to live in Minnesota.

From outdoor recreation opportunities to local attractions and economic prospects, these cities have something unique to offer. So, let's dive in and explore the affordable gems of Minnesota!

Top 8 Cheapest Places to Live in Minnesota

International Falls

Cheapest Places to Live in Minnesota

Nestled on the border of Minnesota and Canada, International Falls is a small city with a population of approximately 5,596 residents. Known as the "Icebox of the Nation," it experiences long, cold winters, making it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts.

Here are some key statistics about International Falls:

  • International Falls is situated near Voyageurs National Park and Rainy Lake, offering residents stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Residents of International Falls can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and exploring the wilderness in Voyageurs National Park and Rainy Lake.
  • The median home price in International Falls is around $96,000.
  • If renting is more your style, apartments in International Falls have an average monthly cost of approximately $650.

Bemidji

Bemidji is a city in northwestern Minnesota known for its vibrant arts scene and outdoor activities. Here are some key statistics about Bemidji:

  • Bemidji has a population of approximately 15,355 residents.
  • The city is situated near several natural features, including beautiful lakes such as Lake Bemidji and Lake Irving.
  • The nearby state parks, including Itasca State Park and Lake Bemidji State Park, offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
  • The median home price in Bemidji is approximately $143,000.
  • For those interested in renting, the average monthly cost for an apartment in Bemidji is around $750.

Detroit Lakes

Cheapest Places to Live in Minnesota

Detroit Lakes, situated in the heart of Minnesota's Lakes Country, is a charming city with a population of around 9,747 people. Here are some key statistics about Detroit Lakes:

  • The city is known for its beautiful lakes, providing residents and visitors with ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and water sports.
  • Detroit Lakes hosts the annual Northwest Water Carnival, a week-long celebration of summer.
  • The average cost of a house in Detroit Lakes is approximately $148,000.
  • Apartments in Detroit Lakes have an average monthly cost of around $800.

Fairmont

Fairmont, located in southern Minnesota, is a city of about 10,328 residents.

Here are some key statistics about Fairmont:

  • The city is blessed with a picturesque setting and is surrounded by five lakes, offering residents and visitors ample opportunities for recreational activities like fishing and swimming.
  • Fairmont is known for its vibrant arts scene, with the Red Rock Center for the Arts being a prominent cultural hub.
  • The average house price in Fairmont is around $119,000.
  • Renters in Fairmont can expect to pay an average monthly cost of approximately $650 for apartments.

Crookston

Crookston, nestled in northwestern Minnesota, is a small city with a population of approximately 7,115 people.

Here are some key statistics about Crookston:

  • The city is home to the University of Minnesota Crookston, which enriches the community with educational and cultural offerings.
  • Crookston offers a variety of outdoor activities, including golfing, hiking, and snowmobiling, providing residents with opportunities to enjoy the natural surroundings.
  • The average cost of a house in Crookston is approximately $109,000.
  • Renting an apartment in Crookston comes with an average monthly cost of around $750.

Red Wing

Cheapest Places to Live in Minnesota

The average house price in Red Wing is approximately $170,000, making it an affordable option for homebuyers. For those interested in renting, apartments here have an average monthly cost of around $850.

Red Wing, located on the banks of the Mississippi River, is a historic city with a population of about 17,164 residents.

Here are some key statistics about Red Wing:

  • The city is known for its charming downtown district and scenic beauty, offering residents and visitors a mix of outdoor recreation and cultural attractions.
  • Red Wing is home to the Red Wing Shoe Company, renowned for its quality footwear, and the famous Red Wing Pottery, known for its distinctive stoneware.
  • The average house price in Red Wing is approximately $170,000.
  • Apartments in Red Wing have an average monthly cost of around $850.

Hibbing

Hibbing, a city of around 15,883 residents, is situated in the heart of Minnesota's Iron Range.

Here are some key statistics about Hibbing:

  • The city is known for its rich mining history and is home to the Hull Rust Mahoning Mine, one of the largest open-pit mines in the world.
  • The average cost of a house in Hibbing is approximately $102,000.
  • If renting is preferred, apartments in Hibbing have an average monthly cost of around $650.

Austin

Cheapest Places to Live in Minnesota

Austin, located in southern Minnesota, is a vibrant city with a population of approximately 26,325 residents.

Here are some key statistics about Austin:

  • Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Cedar River and Myre-Big Island State Park, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
  • The average house price in Austin is around $130,000.
  • For those who prefer renting, apartments in Austin have an average monthly cost of approximately $750.