Coon Rapids is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,450 per month and grocery costs slightly below the national average.
Is the true cost of living in Coon Rapids higher than you think? Let’s take a closer look at what it really costs to live comfortably in this Twin Cities suburb in 2025.
Housing Costs in Coon Rapids
Housing is the biggest expense for most Coon Rapids residents. Typical housing options include single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. Prices vary based on neighborhood, property type, and size.
For renters, a 2-bedroom apartment in Coon Rapids ranges from $1,200 to $1,700 per month, with an average around $1,450. Newer luxury units with amenities like in-unit laundry and fitness centers are on the higher end.
Homebuyers can expect to pay between $325,000 and $450,000 for a 3-bedroom single-family home. Prices are higher in desirable neighborhoods like Wilderness and Pheasant Ridge, where homes are newer and larger. More affordable options can be found in older areas like Epiphany.
- 2-bedroom apartment: $1,200 – $1,700/month
- 3-bedroom house: $325,000 – $450,000 purchase price
Some Coon Rapids neighborhoods have homeowners associations (HOAs) that charge monthly or annual fees for shared amenities and maintenance. Typical HOA fees range from $200 to $400 per month.
Utilities and Energy Bills
In addition to rent or mortgage payments, Coon Rapids residents must budget for utilities like electricity, natural gas, water, and trash service. Costs vary based on home size, season, and usage.
For a 1,000 square foot apartment, expect to pay around $120 per month for electricity and $60 for natural gas. Costs are higher in the summer due to air conditioning. Water and trash are often included in rent for apartments but can add $50-$75 per month for homeowners.
| Utility | Apartment | House |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity | $120 | $150 |
| Natural gas | $60 | $80 |
| Water | Included | $50 |
| Trash | Included | $25 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs in Coon Rapids are slightly below the national average. Expect to spend around $350 per month per person on groceries and household essentials. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and occasional dining out.
A gallon of milk costs about $3.50, a loaf of bread is $2.75, and a dozen eggs are $2.25. Eating out costs $12-$15 per person for a casual meal and $25-$35 for a nicer sit-down restaurant.
Here’s an example of a typical grocery basket:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.75
- Dozen eggs: $2.25
- 5 lbs. chicken: $12
- 2 lbs. rice: $3
- Produce (lettuce, tomatoes, apples): $10
Total: $33.50 for several days of meals for one person.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Minnesota has a progressive income tax, with rates from 5.35% to 9.85% depending on income level. The sales tax in Coon Rapids is 7.375%, which includes the state rate of 6.875% plus a 0.5% local tax.
Property taxes in Coon Rapids are around 1.2% of assessed home value. For a $350,000 house, that’s $4,200 per year or $350 per month. Vehicle registration fees are $35 plus 1.25% of the vehicle’s value.
| Tax | Rate |
|---|---|
| Income tax | 5.35% – 9.85% |
| Sales tax | 7.375% |
| Property tax | 1.2% of home value |
| Vehicle tax | $35 + 1.25% of value |
Monthly Budget Summary
So what does it really cost to live in Coon Rapids? Here’s a sample monthly budget for different household sizes, based on average expenses:
| Expense | Single | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,200 | $1,450 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $180 | $250 | $400 |
| Groceries | $350 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $500 |
| Healthcare | $300 | $600 | $1,200 |
| Other | $500 | $800 | $1,200 |
| Total | $2,730 | $4,000 | $6,100 |
Keep in mind these are averages and your actual expenses may be higher or lower depending on your lifestyle and circumstances. All figures are based on gross monthly income (pre-tax).
Lifestyle Considerations
When deciding if Coon Rapids fits your budget, consider lifestyle factors like commute, housing type, and access to amenities.
Coon Rapids offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to parks, trails, and the Mississippi River. The city has good schools and low crime rates. However, most people commute 20-30 minutes to jobs in Minneapolis or St. Paul.
Newer homes in Coon Rapids are more expensive but offer modern features and less maintenance. Older homes are more affordable but may need updates. Renting provides flexibility and less responsibility for maintenance, while buying builds equity.
Coon Rapids is more affordable than inner-ring suburbs like Roseville or Edina, but pricier than farther-out areas like Elk River or St. Michael. Compared to Minneapolis, you get more house for your money but have a longer commute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Coon Rapids?
To live comfortably in Coon Rapids, aim for a gross monthly income (pre-tax) of at least $3,500 for a single person, $5,000 for a couple, or $7,500 for a family of four. This allows for housing, food, healthcare, and discretionary spending.
Is Coon Rapids cheaper than Minneapolis?
Yes, the cost of living in Coon Rapids is about 10% lower than Minneapolis. Housing costs are the biggest difference, with Coon Rapids offering more affordable options, especially for families looking to buy a home.
What is the cheapest neighborhood in Coon Rapids?
The most affordable neighborhoods in Coon Rapids are often older areas like Epiphany, where you can find smaller homes for under $300,000. Renting an apartment in these areas can cost $1,000-$1,200 per month.
How much does it cost to buy a house in Coon Rapids?
A typical 3-bedroom house in Coon Rapids costs between $325,000 and $450,000 as of 2025. Prices are higher in newer neighborhoods with larger homes and more amenities. Don’t forget to budget for property taxes, insurance, and maintenance.
What is the sales tax rate in Coon Rapids?
The sales tax rate in Coon Rapids is 7.375%, which includes the Minnesota state rate of 6.875% plus a 0.5% local tax. This applies to most goods and services, with some exceptions like groceries and clothing.
How do Coon Rapids property taxes compare to other cities?
Coon Rapids has slightly lower property taxes than the Minneapolis metro average. The city’s rate is about 1.2% of home value, compared to 1.3-1.4% in many nearby suburbs. However, rates can vary by neighborhood and property type.
Is Coon Rapids a good place to retire?
Coon Rapids can be a good place to retire if you’re looking for an affordable suburb with access to healthcare, shopping, and recreation. The city has several 55+ communities with amenities geared towards seniors. However, cold winters may be a challenge for some retirees.
The cost of living in Coon Rapids is very reasonable compared to other desirable suburbs, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious families and retirees. Just be sure to factor in moving costs and plan ahead for major expenses.
While Coon Rapids offers good value for the price, it’s important to weigh the tradeoffs and find the right fit for your lifestyle and budget. Use this guide as a starting point and adjust based on your specific needs and priorities.