Landlord Resources
How to Get a Loan for a Rental Property
Rental property loans differ from traditional mortgages, needing larger down payments, higher interest rates, and reserves, often disregarding projected rental income.
•11 min read
What to Know About
Life in Dakota County & Beyond
Dakota County shares many of the great qualities that make Minnesota a desirable place to live.
Minnesota, known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes", boasts breathtaking landscapes and a thriving arts and cultural community that enchants you. Immerse yourself in Minnesota's roots and history through the City Museum and the Science Museum of Minnesota, or invest in your education through the University of Minnesota, St. Cloud State University, and Minnesota State University, Mankato. In addition, residents can enjoy a vibrant arts and cultural scene in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, including the famous Walker Art Center and the Minnesota Orchestra, providing a wealth of entertainment options.
Sports enthusiasts can enjoy cheering on professional teams such as the Minnesota Vikings (NFL), Minnesota Twins (MLB), and Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA), providing ample opportunities for excitement. Explore famous attractions like the Mall of America, the James J. Hill House, and the historic town of Duluth, each providing a unique glimpse into Minnesota's history and culture. In addition, the state offers many outdoor recreation opportunities, from boating and fishing in its 10,000 lakes to skiing in the Minnesota River Valley.
Minnesota offers a unique blend of natural beauty, quality of life, and affordability, making it a great place to call home.
Rental Market Trends
Dakota County, MN
As of June 2026, Dakota County's rental market is competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units. Dakota County's average rent is 8.6% ($133) higher than the Minnesota average of $1,539 and 7.0% ($125) lower than the U.S. average of $1,797.
Average Rent
$1,672
Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change
4% ($64)
Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change
5.1% ($81)
Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market
27
| Unit Type | Average Rent | Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change | Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bed | $1,553 | 3.9% ($58) | 7% ($101) |
| 2 Beds | $1,761 | 4% ($67) | 6.9% ($113) |
| 3 Beds | $2,144 | 8.6% ($169) | 13.3% ($252) |
| Cities within Dakota County | Average Rent | Avg. Rent vs. DakotaAverage Rent vs. Dakota County | Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Paul | $1,533 | 8.3% ($139) | 31 days |
| Burnsville | $1,606 | 3.9% ($66) | 30 days |
| Lakeville | $1,653 | 1.1% ($19) | 29 days |
| South Saint Paul | $1,101 | 34.2% ($571) | 27 days |
| Rosemount | $1,488 | 11% ($184) | 28 days |
Rental market trends are calculated using listing data from RentalSource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dakota County Rental Market FAQs
Explore rental prices, market trends, and availability in Dakota County, MN.
The average rent in Dakota County, MN is $1,672 per month.
Homes in Dakota County typically rent for between $1,087 and $2,787 per month, with an average of $1,672 per month.
In Dakota County, the average rent for a 1-bedroom home is $1,553 per month, for a 2-bedroom home, $1,761 per month, and a 3-bedroom home is $2,144 per month.
The average rent in Dakota County is 7% ($125) lower than the national average of $1,797 per month.
The average rent in Dakota County has increased by 4.0% ($64) in the last month and increased by 5.1% ($81) over the past year.
The rental market in Dakota County, MN, is currently competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units.
In Dakota County, MN, the average rental stays on the market for approximately 27 days. While most properties are rented within this timeframe, factors like seasonality, demand, and property type can affect how quickly a rental leases.
There are currently 142 rental properties available in Dakota County, MN.
Based on the current averages, a household would need an annual income of $70,440 to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom home in Dakota County.
