Albert Lea, MN

Very Low · 55

Minnesota · Population 18,379 · Updated March 2026

$845
Median Rent / Month
$62,522
Median Income
$150,400
Median Home Value
$823
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Albert Lea

16.2%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Minnesota

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

9.85%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
6.875%
Sales Tax
1.11%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$10,140
Annual Rent
$6,158
State Income Tax
$1,669
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Albert Lea is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 55 (where 100 equals the national median), Albert Lea residents can expect to pay median rent of $845/month while earning a median household income of $62,522/year.

The median home value in Albert Lea, MN is $150,400, with typical monthly owner costs around $823 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 16.2% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Minnesota's top income tax rate of 9.85% is among the highest in the nation, adding to the overall cost burden. Combined with a 6.875% sales tax rate and 1.11% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Albert Lea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Albert Lea

What is the cost of living in Albert Lea, MN?
The cost of living index in Albert Lea, MN is 55 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $845, median household income is $62,522/year, and the median home value is $150,400.
Is Albert Lea, MN affordable?
Yes, Albert Lea is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 55. The rent-to-income ratio is 16.2%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Albert Lea, MN?
The median gross rent in Albert Lea, MN is $845 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $10,140.
What is the median household income in Albert Lea?
The median household income in Albert Lea, MN is $62,522 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Minnesota?
Minnesota has a top income tax rate of 9.85%, a sales tax of 6.875%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.11%.