Shelly, MN
Population 195 · Minnesota
About Shelly, MN
Shelly is a small community located in Minnesota with a population of 195 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $51,250 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.6 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 Shelly features a median home value of $88,300, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Shelly one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 120 total housing units, 95% are owner-occupied (78 units) and 5% are renter-occupied (4 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Shelly shows an unemployment rate of 14.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Shelly have an average one-way commute time of 32.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.0% of Shelly 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 3.6% White, 9.7% Hispanic or Latino, 3.1% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Shelly, MN
Compared to national averages, Shelly has a median household income of $51,250 (32% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $88,300, which is 64% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Shelly's income is 31% below the state average of $74,221, and home values are 57% below the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Shelly, MN?
Shelly offers affordable housing with a median home value of $88,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($51,250) that falls below the national average. However, Shelly’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Shelly has a population of 195 with a median age of 34.6 years. Compare Shelly with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Shelly
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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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 Shelly
What is the population of Shelly, MN?
The population of Shelly, MN is 195 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 Shelly?
The median household income in Shelly, MN is $51,250 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Shelly?
The median home value in Shelly, MN is $88,300, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Shelly?
The median monthly rent in Shelly, MN is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Shelly?
The unemployment rate in Shelly, MN is 14.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Shelly, MN a good place to live?
Shelly offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 195 and a median age of 34.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Shelly, MN?
20.0% of residents in Shelly 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 Shelly?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Shelly, MN: median home value is $88,300 (64% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $51,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Shelly?
The poverty rate in Shelly, MN is 16.3%, 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 Shelly, MN?
Shelly's population is 3.6% White, 9.7% Hispanic or Latino, 3.1% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 7.2% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.