Affordable

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Middle River?

To afford a 2-bedroom in Middle River, you need to earn at least $17,680/year based on estimated fair market rent data. The median household income here is $55,417, which means the typical resident is $37,737 above the threshold.

Census ACS Data Pop. 272

Salary Required by Bedroom Size

Bedroom	Monthly Rent	Monthly Income	Annual Salary	vs. Median
Studio	$309	$1,030	$12,360	$-43,057
1 Bedroom	$367	$1,223	$14,680	$-40,737
2 Bedroom BENCHMARK	$442	$1,473	$17,680	$-37,737
3 Bedroom	$539	$1,797	$21,560	$-33,857
4 Bedroom	$663	$2,210	$26,520	$-28,897

Affordability Breakdown

Where the required salary line crosses above Middle River's median income — housing becomes unaffordable for the typical resident.

Required Salary Median Income

Income vs. Rent Snapshot

Median Income

$55,417

Annual household

2BR Required Salary

$17,680

Under 30% rule

Income Gap

+$37,737

Surplus

Verdict

Affordable

Ratio: 9.6%

The 30% Rule Calculator

Enter your annual salary to see what you can afford in Middle River

Your Annual Salary

Pre-filled with Middle River's median household income

Max monthly rent you can afford$1,385

Studio

$309/mo

1 BR

$367/mo

2 BR

$442/mo

3 BR

$539/mo

4 BR

$663/mo

Your salary is $0 above the median income in Middle River.

Salary Comparison by Bedroom

Bars left of the marker line are affordable for Middle River's median earner. Bars to the right require above-median income.

Affordable Above Median Median Income

What This Means If You're Moving to Middle River

Middle River, Minnesota stands out as one of the more financially accessible housing markets in the state. The median household income of $55,417 significantly exceeds the $17,680 needed to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom at 30% of gross income — leaving a $37,737 annual surplus for savings, debt repayment, or lifestyle spending.

For remote workers or relocators evaluating Middle River, a studio at $309/month offers an even more aggressive savings rate. Even a 3-bedroom at $539/month remains accessible for dual-income households earning above $21,560.

To live comfortably with room for non-housing expenses, a break-even salary of approximately $26,520 would position you well — though many residents in Middle River manage on less given the favorable rent-to-income dynamics.

Economic Outlook

Local Job Market & Housing Dynamics

Affording rent isn't just about housing prices—it's heavily dependent on local employment opportunities and the strength of the job market in Middle River, Minnesota.

With a total population of 272, the city supports an active civilian workforce of 148 people. A strong employment base often indicates a stable economy, which is crucial when committing to a lease requiring a $17,680 annual salary. The ratio of employed residents to the total population provides insight into the local economic health and competition for both jobs and housing.

Employed Workforce

148

Active civilian employees in Middle River

Frequently Asked Questions About Renting in Middle River

What salary do I need to live in Middle River, Minnesota?

To afford a 2-bedroom in Middle River under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of at least $17,680. The median household income in Middle River is $55,417.

Can I afford a 2-bedroom in Middle River on $55,417?

The affordability verdict for Middle River is "Affordable". The rent-to-income ratio is 9.6%, meaning median earners have a $37,737 surplus.

What is the average rent in Middle River compared to median income?

The median gross rent in Middle River is $367/month. With a median household income of $55,417, residents spend approximately 9.6% of their income on rent.

What salary do I need for a studio in Middle River?

A studio in Middle River rents for approximately $309/month. Under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of $12,360 to afford this.

Is Middle River considered an affordable place to live?

Based on the surplus of $37,737 and an affordability verdict of "Affordable", Middle River is considered a affordable rental market when comparing the required 2-bedroom salary of $17,680 to the local median household income.

How Middle River Compares

Other cities in Minnesota with salary requirements