Watson, MN
Population 189 · Minnesota
About Watson, MN
Watson is a small community located in Minnesota with a population of 189 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $38,958 per year, which is 48% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44.7 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 Watson features a median home value of $66,500, which is 73% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Watson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $706, 39% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 97 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (69 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (28 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Watson shows an unemployment rate of 5.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 21.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Watson have an average one-way commute time of 17 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
8.8% of Watson 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 12.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Watson, MN
Compared to national averages, Watson has a median household income of $38,958 (48% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $66,500, which is 73% below the national median. Monthly rent at $706 is 39% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Watson's income is 48% below the state average of $74,221, and home values are 67% below the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Watson, MN?
Watson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $66,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $706/month, and short commute times averaging just 17 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($38,958) that falls below the national average. However, Watson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Watson has a population of 189 with a median age of 44.7 years. Compare Watson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
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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 Watson
What is the population of Watson, MN?
The population of Watson, MN is 189 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 Watson?
The median household income in Watson, MN is $38,958 per year, which is 48% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Watson?
The median home value in Watson, MN is $66,500, which is 73% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Watson?
The median monthly rent in Watson, MN is $706, which is 39% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Watson?
The unemployment rate in Watson, MN is 5.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Watson, MN a good place to live?
Watson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 189 and a median age of 44.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Watson, MN?
8.8% of residents in Watson 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 Watson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Watson, MN: median home value is $66,500 (73% below national), median rent is $706/month, and median household income is $38,958. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Watson?
The poverty rate in Watson, MN is 21.7%, 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 Watson, MN?
Watson's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 12.2% of residents are foreign-born.