Buffalo Lake, MN
Population 664 · Minnesota
About Buffalo Lake, MN
Buffalo Lake is a small community located in Minnesota with a population of 664 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $56,719 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Buffalo Lake features a median home value of $106,000, which is 57% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Buffalo Lake one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $763, 34% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 285 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (174 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (63 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Buffalo Lake shows an unemployment rate of 5.5%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 17.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Buffalo Lake have an average one-way commute time of 27.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.1% of Buffalo Lake 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 18.1% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 9.8% Asian residents, with 8.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Buffalo Lake, MN
Compared to national averages, Buffalo Lake has a median household income of $56,719 (25% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $106,000, which is 57% below the national median. Monthly rent at $763 is 34% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Buffalo Lake's income is 24% below the state average of $74,221, and home values are 48% below the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Buffalo Lake, MN?
Buffalo Lake offers affordable housing with a median home value of $106,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $763/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($56,719) that falls below the national average. However, Buffalo Lake’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Buffalo Lake has a population of 664 with a median age of 41.2 years. Compare Buffalo Lake with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
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Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
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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 Buffalo Lake
What is the population of Buffalo Lake, MN?
The population of Buffalo Lake, MN is 664 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 Buffalo Lake?
The median household income in Buffalo Lake, MN is $56,719 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Buffalo Lake?
The median home value in Buffalo Lake, MN is $106,000, which is 57% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Buffalo Lake?
The median monthly rent in Buffalo Lake, MN is $763, which is 34% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Buffalo Lake?
The unemployment rate in Buffalo Lake, MN is 5.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Buffalo Lake, MN a good place to live?
Buffalo Lake offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 664 and a median age of 41.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Buffalo Lake, MN?
20.1% of residents in Buffalo Lake 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 Buffalo Lake?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Buffalo Lake, MN: median home value is $106,000 (57% below national), median rent is $763/month, and median household income is $56,719. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Buffalo Lake?
The poverty rate in Buffalo Lake, MN is 17.4%, 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 Buffalo Lake, MN?
Buffalo Lake's population is 18.1% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 9.8% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 8.9% of residents are foreign-born.