Rutledge, MN
Population 278 · Minnesota
About Rutledge, MN
Rutledge is a small community located in Minnesota with a population of 278 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $62,917 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 47.7 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 Rutledge features a median home value of $111,700, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Rutledge one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $825, 29% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 138 total housing units, 91% are owner-occupied (96 units) and 9% are renter-occupied (9 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Rutledge shows an unemployment rate of 3.2%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 13.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Rutledge have an average one-way commute time of 26.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
7.2% of Rutledge 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 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Rutledge, MN
Compared to national averages, Rutledge has a median household income of $62,917 (16% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $111,700, which is 54% below the national median. Monthly rent at $825 is 29% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Rutledge's income is 15% below the state average of $74,221, and home values are 45% below the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Rutledge, MN?
Rutledge offers affordable housing with a median home value of $111,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $825/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.2%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($62,917) that falls below the national average. However, Rutledge’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Rutledge has a population of 278 with a median age of 47.7 years. Compare Rutledge with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Rutledge
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fairhaven | 279 | $92,143 | $237,100 | Compare |
| Dakota | 276 | $92,969 | $223,900 | Compare |
| Middle River | 281 | $57,188 | $103,500 | Compare |
| New Munich | 275 | $90,714 | $165,300 | Compare |
| Pine Point | 275 | $40,000 | $76,700 | Compare |
| Deer Creek | 273 | $55,000 | $123,100 | Compare |
| Riverland | 273 | $35,313 | $0 | Compare |
| Cuyuna | 272 | $78,281 | $250,000 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Rutledge
What is the population of Rutledge, MN?
The population of Rutledge, MN is 278 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 Rutledge?
The median household income in Rutledge, MN is $62,917 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Rutledge?
The median home value in Rutledge, MN is $111,700, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Rutledge?
The median monthly rent in Rutledge, MN is $825, which is 29% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Rutledge?
The unemployment rate in Rutledge, MN is 3.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Rutledge, MN a good place to live?
Rutledge offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 278 and a median age of 47.7, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Rutledge, MN?
7.2% of residents in Rutledge 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 Rutledge?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Rutledge, MN: median home value is $111,700 (54% below national), median rent is $825/month, and median household income is $62,917. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Rutledge?
The poverty rate in Rutledge, MN is 13.2%, 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 Rutledge, MN?
Rutledge's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 7.2% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.