Wadena, MN
Population 4,361 · Minnesota
About Wadena, MN
Wadena is a small community in Minnesota with a population of 4,361 residents. The median household income is $45,850 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Wadena is 36.5 years.
Housing in Wadena has a median home value of $158,700 and median monthly rent of $683. Of the 2,171 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,057 owner-occupied and 953 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Wadena is 8.1% and the poverty rate is 14.5%. 13.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 15.2 minutes.
Cost of Living in Wadena, MN
Compared to national averages, Wadena has a median household income of $45,850 (39% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $158,700, which is 35% below the national median. Monthly rent at $683 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Wadena's income is 38% below the state average of $74,221, and home values are 22% below the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Wadena, MN?
Wadena offers affordable housing with a median home value of $158,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $683/month, and short commute times averaging just 15.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($45,850) that falls below the national average. However, Wadena’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Wadena has a population of 4,361 with a median age of 36.5 years. Compare Wadena with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Wadena
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wayzata | 4,363 | $125,344 | $1,047,400 | Compare |
| Newport | 4,460 | $63,365 | $331,300 | Compare |
| Park Rapids | 4,226 | $45,800 | $218,500 | Compare |
| Cannon Falls | 4,216 | $80,515 | $262,100 | Compare |
| Columbus | 4,211 | $117,917 | $439,200 | Compare |
| Le Sueur | 4,204 | $71,563 | $216,700 | Compare |
| Cold Spring | 4,201 | $72,022 | $242,000 | Compare |
| Rockford | 4,521 | $82,228 | $265,900 | 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 Wadena
What is the population of Wadena, MN?
The population of Wadena, MN is 4,361 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Wadena?
The median household income in Wadena, MN is $45,850 per year.
What is the median home value in Wadena?
The median home value in Wadena, MN is $158,700.
What is the average rent in Wadena?
The median monthly rent in Wadena, MN is $683.
What is the unemployment rate in Wadena?
The unemployment rate in Wadena, MN is 8.1%.