Cost of Living in Wadena, MN
Population 4,361 · Minnesota · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Wadena run well below national norms — a median of $45,850 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $159,000). Unemployment has stayed elevated relative to the national figure — 8.1% as of the most recent ACS release — which shows up in household-income and poverty figures as well.
Wadena lies roughly 85 miles east of the nearest major metro, Fargo — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 41% lower than Fargo's $270,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Wadena
The median home value in Wadena is $158,700 — 48% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $683/month, 48% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $45,850/year is 39% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 8.1%, above the national average of 4.8%. Minnesota's top state income tax rate is 9.8% and the combined sales tax is 7.4%. Overall, Wadena has a cost of living index of 52 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 48% less expensive.
Wadena has limited residential data
Detailed housing and income data is limited for this location. Here are the nearest cities with full cost of living data:
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Wadena, MN?
Wadena has a cost index of 52 (100 = national average). It is 48% below the national average.
What is average rent in Wadena, MN?
The median gross rent in Wadena is $683 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Wadena?
The median home value in Wadena is $158,700 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Wadena?
The median household income in Wadena is $45,850 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Wadena, MN?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Wadena is 7.4%. The Minnesota state income tax top rate is 9.8%.
Is Wadena, MN affordable?
Yes, Wadena is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 52 — about 48% below the US national average of 100.
Wadena at a Glance
- Population
- 4,361
- Median Income
- $45,850
- Home Value
- $158,700
- Median Rent
- $683/mo
- Unemployment
- 8.1%
- Sales Tax
- 7.4%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Minnesota Rankings
Similar Cost Cities
Cities in other states with comparable housing costs