Brainerd, MN
Population 14,474 · Minnesota
About Brainerd, MN
Brainerd is a mid-sized city in Minnesota with a population of 14,474 residents. The median household income is $53,705 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Brainerd is 36.1 years.
Housing in Brainerd has a median home value of $178,600 and median monthly rent of $848. Of the 6,692 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 3,609 owner-occupied and 2,718 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Brainerd is 8.1% and the poverty rate is 16.7%. 19.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 18.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Brainerd, MN
Compared to national averages, Brainerd has a median household income of $53,705 (29% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $178,600, which is 27% below the national median. Monthly rent at $848 is 27% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Brainerd's income is 28% below the state average of $74,221, and home values are 13% below the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Brainerd, MN?
Brainerd offers affordable housing with a median home value of $178,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $848/month, and short commute times averaging just 18.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,705) that falls below the national average. However, Brainerd’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Brainerd has a population of 14,474 with a median age of 36.1 years. Compare Brainerd with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Brainerd
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandria | 14,579 | $61,558 | $247,200 | Compare |
| Monticello | 14,607 | $81,563 | $298,400 | Compare |
| Hutchinson | 14,629 | $71,730 | $210,300 | Compare |
| Robbinsdale | 14,318 | $84,719 | $280,400 | Compare |
| North Mankato | 14,212 | $77,571 | $252,700 | Compare |
| Fergus Falls | 14,138 | $50,865 | $173,300 | Compare |
| New Ulm | 14,066 | $63,984 | $192,700 | Compare |
| Marshall | 13,880 | $64,636 | $198,900 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Brainerd
What is the population of Brainerd, MN?
The population of Brainerd, MN is 14,474 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Brainerd?
The median household income in Brainerd, MN is $53,705 per year.
What is the median home value in Brainerd?
The median home value in Brainerd, MN is $178,600.
What is the average rent in Brainerd?
The median monthly rent in Brainerd, MN is $848.
What is the unemployment rate in Brainerd?
The unemployment rate in Brainerd, MN is 8.1%.