Northfield, MN
Population 20,678 · Minnesota
About Northfield, MN
Northfield is a mid-sized city located in Minnesota with a population of 20,678 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $92,000 per year, which is 22% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 28.3 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 Northfield features a median home value of $305,300, which is 25% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Northfield 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 6,648 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (4,445 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (1,923 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Northfield shows an unemployment rate of 4.8%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 7.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Northfield have an average one-way commute time of 18.9 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
51.5% of Northfield residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 10.2% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 2.0% Asian residents, with 10.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Northfield, MN
Compared to national averages, Northfield has a median household income of $92,000 (22% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $305,300, which is 25% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,036 is 11% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Northfield's income is 24% above the state average of $74,221, and home values are 49% above the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Northfield, MN?
Northfield offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $92,000, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,036/month, and a well-educated community where 51.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 7.2%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 18.9 minutes.
Northfield has a population of 20,678 with a median age of 28.3 years. Compare Northfield with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Northfield
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forest Lake | 20,678 | $89,879 | $375,900 | Compare |
| South St. Paul | 20,633 | $84,472 | $266,800 | Compare |
| West St. Paul | 21,076 | $70,738 | $281,800 | Compare |
| Willmar | 21,136 | $63,368 | $186,000 | Compare |
| Otsego | 21,358 | $127,219 | $367,200 | Compare |
| New Hope | 21,402 | $73,698 | $314,600 | Compare |
| Sartell | 19,620 | $77,465 | $278,000 | Compare |
| Lino Lakes | 21,847 | $121,800 | $385,000 | 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 Northfield With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Northfield
What is the population of Northfield, MN?
The population of Northfield, MN is 20,678 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Minnesota.
What is the median household income in Northfield?
The median household income in Northfield, MN is $92,000 per year, which is 22% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Northfield?
The median home value in Northfield, MN is $305,300, which is 25% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Northfield?
The median monthly rent in Northfield, MN is $1,036, which is 11% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Northfield?
The unemployment rate in Northfield, MN is 4.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Northfield, MN a good place to live?
Northfield offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 20,678 and a median age of 28.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Northfield, MN?
51.5% of residents in Northfield aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Northfield?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Northfield, MN: median home value is $305,300 (25% above national), median rent is $1,036/month, and median household income is $92,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Northfield?
The poverty rate in Northfield, MN is 7.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Northfield, MN?
Northfield's population is 10.2% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 2.0% Asian, and 2.0% two or more races. 10.0% of residents are foreign-born.