Willmar, MN
Population 21,136 · Minnesota
About Willmar, MN
Willmar is a mid-sized city in Minnesota with a population of 21,136 residents. The median household income is $63,368 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Willmar is 35.6 years.
Housing in Willmar has a median home value of $186,000 and median monthly rent of $830. Of the 8,880 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 4,757 owner-occupied and 3,514 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Willmar is 4.7% and the poverty rate is 15.2%. 24.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 12.9 minutes.
Cost of Living in Willmar, MN
Compared to national averages, Willmar has a median household income of $63,368 (16% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $186,000, which is 24% below the national median. Monthly rent at $830 is 29% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Willmar's income is 15% below the state average of $74,221, and home values are 9% below the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Willmar, MN?
Willmar offers affordable housing with a median home value of $186,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $830/month, and short commute times averaging just 12.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,368) that falls below the national average. However, Willmar’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Willmar has a population of 21,136 with a median age of 35.6 years. Compare Willmar with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Willmar
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West St. Paul | 21,076 | $70,738 | $281,800 | Compare |
| Otsego | 21,358 | $127,219 | $367,200 | Compare |
| New Hope | 21,402 | $73,698 | $314,600 | Compare |
| Forest Lake | 20,678 | $89,879 | $375,900 | Compare |
| Northfield | 20,678 | $92,000 | $305,300 | Compare |
| South St. Paul | 20,633 | $84,472 | $266,800 | Compare |
| Lino Lakes | 21,847 | $121,800 | $385,000 | Compare |
| Golden Valley | 21,927 | $114,435 | $423,500 | 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 Willmar
What is the population of Willmar, MN?
The population of Willmar, MN is 21,136 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Willmar?
The median household income in Willmar, MN is $63,368 per year.
What is the median home value in Willmar?
The median home value in Willmar, MN is $186,000.
What is the average rent in Willmar?
The median monthly rent in Willmar, MN is $830.
What is the unemployment rate in Willmar?
The unemployment rate in Willmar, MN is 4.7%.