Shafer, MN
Population 1,151 · Minnesota
About Shafer, MN
Shafer is a small town located in Minnesota with a population of 1,151 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $96,042 per year, which is 28% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.5 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 Shafer features a median home value of $225,700, which is 8% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Shafer in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $954, 18% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 435 total housing units, 82% are owner-occupied (349 units) and 18% are renter-occupied (77 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Shafer shows an unemployment rate of 3.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 7.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Shafer have an average one-way commute time of 38.6 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
16.0% of Shafer 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 4.6% White, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Shafer, MN
Compared to national averages, Shafer has a median household income of $96,042 (28% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $225,700, which is 8% below the national median. Monthly rent at $954 is 18% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Shafer's income is 29% above the state average of $74,221, and home values are 10% above the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Shafer, MN?
Shafer offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $96,042, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $225,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $954/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.5%, and a low poverty rate of 7.1%, better than the national average.
Shafer has a population of 1,151 with a median age of 35.5 years. Compare Shafer with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Shafer
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elgin | 1,147 | $87,000 | $218,200 | Compare |
| New London | 1,156 | $66,830 | $209,300 | Compare |
| Dellwood | 1,145 | $208,125 | $729,800 | Compare |
| Elbow Lake | 1,158 | $56,786 | $118,900 | Compare |
| Fairfax | 1,134 | $53,750 | $99,800 | Compare |
| East Gull Lake | 1,173 | $128,548 | $522,000 | Compare |
| Redby | 1,175 | $53,846 | $109,500 | Compare |
| Madison Lake | 1,178 | $84,833 | $281,300 | 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 Shafer With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Shafer
What is the population of Shafer, MN?
The population of Shafer, MN is 1,151 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 Shafer?
The median household income in Shafer, MN is $96,042 per year, which is 28% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Shafer?
The median home value in Shafer, MN is $225,700, which is 8% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Shafer?
The median monthly rent in Shafer, MN is $954, which is 18% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Shafer?
The unemployment rate in Shafer, MN is 3.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Shafer, MN a good place to live?
Shafer offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,151 and a median age of 35.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Shafer, MN?
16.0% of residents in Shafer 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 Shafer?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Shafer, MN: median home value is $225,700 (8% below national), median rent is $954/month, and median household income is $96,042. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Shafer?
The poverty rate in Shafer, MN is 7.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Shafer, MN?
Shafer's population is 4.6% White, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.5% two or more races. 1.7% of residents are foreign-born.