Appleton, MN
Population 1,360 · Minnesota
About Appleton, MN
Appleton is a small town located in Minnesota with a population of 1,360 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $40,117 per year, which is 47% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.6 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Appleton features a median home value of $71,300, which is 71% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Appleton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $682, 41% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 758 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (452 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (173 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Appleton shows an unemployment rate of 4.7%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 20.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Appleton have an average one-way commute time of 29.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.6% of Appleton residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 2.4% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 2.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Appleton, MN
Compared to national averages, Appleton has a median household income of $40,117 (47% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $71,300, which is 71% below the national median. Monthly rent at $682 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Appleton's income is 46% below the state average of $74,221, and home values are 65% below the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Appleton, MN?
Appleton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $71,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $682/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($40,117) that falls below the national average. However, Appleton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Appleton has a population of 1,360 with a median age of 51.6 years. Compare Appleton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Appleton
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tonka Bay | 1,361 | $151,563 | $869,900 | Compare |
| Fulda | 1,348 | $68,056 | $155,100 | Compare |
| Hayfield | 1,382 | $69,688 | $173,000 | Compare |
| Richmond | 1,336 | $67,381 | $225,500 | Compare |
| Wheaton | 1,334 | $52,260 | $82,200 | Compare |
| Dassel | 1,332 | $59,750 | $218,900 | Compare |
| Renville | 1,397 | $73,750 | $109,700 | Compare |
| New York Mills | 1,319 | $51,696 | $144,900 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Minnesota
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Appleton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Appleton
What is the population of Appleton, MN?
The population of Appleton, MN is 1,360 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Minnesota.
What is the median household income in Appleton?
The median household income in Appleton, MN is $40,117 per year, which is 47% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Appleton?
The median home value in Appleton, MN is $71,300, which is 71% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Appleton?
The median monthly rent in Appleton, MN is $682, which is 41% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Appleton?
The unemployment rate in Appleton, MN is 4.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Appleton, MN a good place to live?
Appleton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,360 and a median age of 51.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Appleton, MN?
18.6% of residents in Appleton aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Appleton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Appleton, MN: median home value is $71,300 (71% below national), median rent is $682/month, and median household income is $40,117. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Appleton?
The poverty rate in Appleton, MN is 20.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Appleton, MN?
Appleton's population is 2.4% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.0% of residents are foreign-born.