Brownton, MN
Population 530 · Minnesota
About Brownton, MN
Brownton is a small community located in Minnesota with a population of 530 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $77,159 per year, which is 3% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 46.2 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 Brownton features a median home value of $148,500, which is 39% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Brownton in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $833, 28% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 296 total housing units, 88% are owner-occupied (213 units) and 12% are renter-occupied (30 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Brownton shows an unemployment rate of 4.7%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 6.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Brownton have an average one-way commute time of 34.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
10.3% of Brownton 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 7.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.5% Asian residents, with 3.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Brownton, MN
Compared to national averages, Brownton has a median household income of $77,159 (3% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $148,500, which is 39% below the national median. Monthly rent at $833 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Brownton's income is 4% above the state average of $74,221, and home values are 27% below the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Brownton, MN?
Brownton offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $77,159, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $148,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $833/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 6.8%, better than the national average.
Brownton has a population of 530 with a median age of 46.2 years. Compare Brownton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Brownton
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmos | 529 | $50,833 | $95,000 | Compare |
| Sturgeon Lake | 526 | $77,500 | $190,600 | Compare |
| Stephen | 524 | $63,750 | $83,800 | Compare |
| Sacred Heart | 522 | $63,125 | $57,600 | Compare |
| Gem Lake | 521 | $146,250 | $536,600 | Compare |
| Medicine Lake | 541 | $161,250 | $1,014,500 | Compare |
| Ranier | 541 | $81,389 | $140,400 | Compare |
| Taconite | 541 | $100,089 | $217,900 | 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 Brownton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Brownton
What is the population of Brownton, MN?
The population of Brownton, MN is 530 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Minnesota.
What is the median household income in Brownton?
The median household income in Brownton, MN is $77,159 per year, which is 3% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Brownton?
The median home value in Brownton, MN is $148,500, which is 39% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Brownton?
The median monthly rent in Brownton, MN is $833, which is 28% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Brownton?
The unemployment rate in Brownton, 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 Brownton, MN a good place to live?
Brownton offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 530 and a median age of 46.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Brownton, MN?
10.3% of residents in Brownton 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 Brownton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Brownton, MN: median home value is $148,500 (39% below national), median rent is $833/month, and median household income is $77,159. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Brownton?
The poverty rate in Brownton, MN is 6.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Brownton, MN?
Brownton's population is 7.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.0% of residents are foreign-born.