Arlington, MN
Population 2,298 · Minnesota
About Arlington, MN
Arlington is a small town located in Minnesota with a population of 2,298 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $66,458 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.1 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Arlington features a median home value of $181,600, which is 26% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Arlington in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $839, 28% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 973 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (598 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (248 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Arlington shows an unemployment rate of 1.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Arlington have an average one-way commute time of 28.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.2% of Arlington 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 12.8% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.4% Black or African American, and 5.1% Asian residents, with 7.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Arlington, MN
Compared to national averages, Arlington has a median household income of $66,458 (12% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $181,600, which is 26% below the national median. Monthly rent at $839 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Arlington's income is 10% below the state average of $74,221, and home values are 11% below the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Arlington, MN?
Arlington offers affordable housing with a median home value of $181,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $839/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.7%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($66,458) that falls below the national average. However, Arlington’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Arlington has a population of 2,298 with a median age of 34.1 years. Compare Arlington with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Arlington
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wells | 2,317 | $58,663 | $93,200 | Compare |
| Crosby | 2,253 | $43,250 | $175,600 | Compare |
| Olivia | 2,243 | $62,683 | $156,600 | Compare |
| Spring Valley | 2,357 | $64,500 | $149,100 | Compare |
| Excelsior | 2,359 | $108,611 | $839,500 | Compare |
| Staples | 2,359 | $51,506 | $119,300 | Compare |
| Pequot Lakes | 2,236 | $66,974 | $246,400 | Compare |
| Aitkin | 2,217 | $45,813 | $172,800 | 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 Arlington With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Arlington
What is the population of Arlington, MN?
The population of Arlington, MN is 2,298 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 Arlington?
The median household income in Arlington, MN is $66,458 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Arlington?
The median home value in Arlington, MN is $181,600, which is 26% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Arlington?
The median monthly rent in Arlington, MN is $839, which is 28% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Arlington?
The unemployment rate in Arlington, MN is 1.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Arlington, MN a good place to live?
Arlington offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,298 and a median age of 34.1, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Arlington, MN?
18.2% of residents in Arlington 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 Arlington?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Arlington, MN: median home value is $181,600 (26% below national), median rent is $839/month, and median household income is $66,458. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Arlington?
The poverty rate in Arlington, MN is 14.9%, 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 Arlington, MN?
Arlington's population is 12.8% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.4% Black or African American, 5.1% Asian, and 0.7% two or more races. 7.6% of residents are foreign-born.