Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Owatonna, MN
Considering a move to Owatonna, MN? This friendly city of 26,420 residents offers affordable living with a median home price around $233,000 and average rent at $970. Owatonna features low commute times (18 minutes), a strong public school system, and abundant sunny days (59% annually). Crime rates are below national averages, and residents enjoy accessible healthcare and a close-knit community atmosphere—making it an ideal spot for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Owatonna, MN
Demographics - Owatonna, MN
Owatonna is home to about 26,420 residents, with a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 39, reflecting a mix of families and working professionals. The city is predominantly White at 85%, but also includes Black, Asian, and other ethnic groups, and over 10% of residents speak a language other than English at home. A moderate population density of 1,450 per square mile offers a comfortable suburban environment.
Population:
26,420
Density:
1,450 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.1
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
85.3%
Black:
4.7%
Asian:
2.3%
Others:
7.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Owatonna, MN?
Owatonna offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $233,000 and average rent at $970, both below national averages. The city’s cost of living index is 88.5, making it a budget-friendly option for families and individuals. Utilities, groceries, and healthcare are also reasonably priced, helping residents stretch their income further.
Median House Value:
$233,000
Gross Rent:
$970
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,340
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$485
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.5
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
80.7
Utilities:
94.0
Transportation:
90.1
Health Care:
97.9
Miscellaneous:
94.5
Crime
Is Owatonna, MN a safe place to live?
Residents of Owatonna benefit from relatively low crime rates, with violent crime at 178 per 100,000 and a property crime rate of 2,010 per 100,000. The chance of being affected by violent crime is about 1 in 562, which is below national averages. These factors contribute to a safe, family-friendly atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
178
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,010
Crime Index:
2,188
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 562
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 50
Weather
What is the weather like in Owatonna, MN year-round?
Owatonna experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging between 5°F and 25°F and warm summers reaching up to 83°F. The area receives about 32.5 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine for 59% of the year. These conditions provide a classic Midwestern climate suited for a variety of outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
5°F
Max:
25°F

Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
63°F

Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
Households in Owatonna enjoy a median income of $68,500, with a low unemployment rate of 3.1% and an average commute time of just over 18 minutes. Educational attainment is high, with over 92% holding at least a high school diploma, and the poverty rate remains below 9%. The community is diverse and welcoming, with a small but meaningful non-English speaking population.
Median Income:
$39,500
Household Income:
$68,500
Family Income:
$80,800
Per Capita Income:
$32,200
Income Male:
$44,900
Income Female:
$37,600
Poverty Rate:
8.6%
Non English Speakers:
10.2%
Rent:
$970
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
18.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
92.5%
Bachelors or More:
27.4%
Education
How are the schools in Owatonna, MN?
Owatonna is served by a strong public school system, including Owatonna Senior High School and Willow Creek Intermediate, both known for dedicated staff and moderate class sizes. Private education is available at St. Mary's School, and higher education opportunities are accessible nearby at Riverland Community College and Minnesota State University, Mankato. The city values education, with high school graduation rates above 90%.

Public Schools
Name:
Owatonna Senior High School
Street:
333 E School St
Phone:
507-444-8800
Students:
1,570
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.2
Name:
Willow Creek Intermediate School
Street:
1050 22nd St NE
Phone:
507-444-8100
Students:
870
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.9

Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary's School
Street:
730 S Cedar Ave
Phone:
507-446-2300
Students:
260

Colleges
Name:
Riverland Community College
City:
Austin
State:
MN
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
3,200
Name:
Minnesota State University, Mankato
City:
Mankato
State:
MN
Distance:
46 miles
Students:
14,000
Healthcare
Owatonna offers accessible healthcare, anchored by Owatonna Hospital, which provides comprehensive emergency and surgical services. The city has nearly 2 physicians per 1,000 residents and boasts a high health insurance coverage rate of 94.7%. Residents benefit from reliable medical care within city limits.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Owatonna Hospital
Address:
2250 NW 26th St, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone:
(507) 451-3850
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.7%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Owatonna, MN?
The housing market in Owatonna is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $233,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 69%. Rental options are available with an average two-bedroom rent at $970 and a low vacancy rate of 4.5%. Home values have seen a steady appreciation, making it an attractive spot for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$233,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$970
Owner Occupied Rate:
69.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Owatonna residents can access the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services office conveniently located on N Cedar Ave for licensing, registration, and other motor vehicle needs. The DMV provides comprehensive services and can be reached at 1-651-297-2126 or via their website. Services are tailored to meet the needs of local drivers and new residents.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
207 N Cedar Ave, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone:
1-651-297-2126
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.