Updated 2026 · Based on median market data for St. Cloud, MN
The median monthly rent in St. Cloud, MN is $1,210, translating to $14,520 in annual gross rental income per unit. The rent-to-price ratio is 0.40% — well below the 1% rule, making pure cash flow investing challenging at median prices.
Renters in St. Cloud spend approximately 24% of the local median household income ($60,800) on rent. This is well below the 30% threshold, suggesting significant headroom for rent increases. Tenants can afford to pay more, which is bullish for landlords.
The vacancy rate in St. Cloud is 4.8%. This is extremely tight — expect strong tenant demand, quick lease-ups, and leverage to set favorable lease terms. In markets this tight, landlords often see multiple applications per listing. Population growth of 0.5% annually provides stable demand.
St. Cloud's GRM (price divided by annual rent) is 21.0x. A GRM above 16x means the property is expensive relative to its income. Investors here are typically betting on appreciation rather than current cash flow. For comparison, the national average GRM for investment-grade rentals is approximately 13-15x.
At the median rent of $1,210/mo, a single-family rental in St. Cloud generates approximately $14,520 in gross annual income. After accounting for 4.8% vacancy ($697 lost), property taxes of $3,416, insurance (~$1,220), and maintenance (~$1,220), the estimated NOI is $7,967 per year, or $664/mo.
St. Cloud vs Minnesota state average and national average across key investment metrics. St. Cloud's cap rate is below both benchmarks — deal sourcing is critical here.