Medford, MN
Population 1,194 · Minnesota
About Medford, MN
Medford is a small town located in Minnesota with a population of 1,194 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $98,375 per year, which is 31% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Medford features a median home value of $234,300, which is 4% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Medford in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,036, 11% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 473 total housing units, 75% are owner-occupied (332 units) and 25% are renter-occupied (111 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Medford shows an unemployment rate of 6.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 2.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Medford have an average one-way commute time of 22.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.1% of Medford 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 5.9% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.8% Black or African American, and 4.0% Asian residents, with 7.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Medford, MN
Compared to national averages, Medford has a median household income of $98,375 (31% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $234,300, which is 4% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,036 is 11% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Medford's income is 33% above the state average of $74,221, and home values are 15% above the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Medford, MN?
Medford offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $98,375, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $234,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,036/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 2.9%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22.5 minutes.
Medford has a population of 1,194 with a median age of 38.2 years. Compare Medford with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Medford
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Martin Lake | 1,203 | $120,705 | $426,100 | Compare |
| Wanamingo | 1,185 | $85,000 | $247,400 | Compare |
| Edgerton | 1,207 | $66,739 | $132,800 | Compare |
| Taylors Falls | 1,208 | $61,548 | $256,000 | Compare |
| Madison Lake | 1,178 | $84,833 | $281,300 | Compare |
| Redby | 1,175 | $53,846 | $109,500 | Compare |
| East Gull Lake | 1,173 | $128,548 | $522,000 | Compare |
| Atwater | 1,217 | $66,071 | $144,300 | 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 Medford With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Medford
What is the population of Medford, MN?
The population of Medford, MN is 1,194 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 Medford?
The median household income in Medford, MN is $98,375 per year, which is 31% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Medford?
The median home value in Medford, MN is $234,300, which is 4% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Medford?
The median monthly rent in Medford, MN is $1,036, which is 11% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Medford?
The unemployment rate in Medford, MN is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Medford, MN a good place to live?
Medford offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,194 and a median age of 38.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Medford, MN?
21.1% of residents in Medford 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 Medford?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Medford, MN: median home value is $234,300 (4% below national), median rent is $1,036/month, and median household income is $98,375. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Medford?
The poverty rate in Medford, MN is 2.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Medford, MN?
Medford's population is 5.9% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.8% Black or African American, 4.0% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 7.7% of residents are foreign-born.