Plainview, MN
Population 3,501 · Minnesota
About Plainview, MN
Plainview is a small town located in Minnesota with a population of 3,501 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $69,800 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35 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 Plainview features a median home value of $230,600, which is 6% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Plainview in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $774, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,389 total housing units, 75% are owner-occupied (987 units) and 25% are renter-occupied (325 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Plainview shows an unemployment rate of 5.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 14.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Plainview have an average one-way commute time of 24.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
26.8% of Plainview residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 7.0% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.3% Asian residents, with 2.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Plainview, MN
Compared to national averages, Plainview has a median household income of $69,800 (7% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $230,600, which is 6% below the national median. Monthly rent at $774 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Plainview's income is 6% below the state average of $74,221, and home values are 13% above the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Plainview, MN?
Plainview offers affordable housing with a median home value of $230,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $774/month, and short commute times averaging just 24.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($69,800) that falls below the national average. However, Plainview’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Plainview has a population of 3,501 with a median age of 35 years. Compare Plainview with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Plainview
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hanover | 3,495 | $147,944 | $421,700 | Compare |
| Eveleth | 3,470 | $47,721 | $91,800 | Compare |
| Benson | 3,449 | $51,124 | $146,100 | Compare |
| Sleepy Eye | 3,438 | $64,811 | $138,500 | Compare |
| St. Augusta | 3,576 | $116,384 | $323,400 | Compare |
| Perham | 3,577 | $47,088 | $186,000 | Compare |
| Two Harbors | 3,598 | $62,885 | $187,100 | Compare |
| Melrose | 3,608 | $58,107 | $198,300 | 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 Plainview With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Plainview
What is the population of Plainview, MN?
The population of Plainview, MN is 3,501 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 Plainview?
The median household income in Plainview, MN is $69,800 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Plainview?
The median home value in Plainview, MN is $230,600, which is 6% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Plainview?
The median monthly rent in Plainview, MN is $774, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Plainview?
The unemployment rate in Plainview, MN is 5.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Plainview, MN a good place to live?
Plainview offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,501 and a median age of 35, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Plainview, MN?
26.8% of residents in Plainview 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 Plainview?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Plainview, MN: median home value is $230,600 (6% below national), median rent is $774/month, and median household income is $69,800. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Plainview?
The poverty rate in Plainview, MN is 14.9%, 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 Plainview, MN?
Plainview's population is 7.0% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.3% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 2.8% of residents are foreign-born.