What to know before you move: cost, market timing, who it fits.
If you're considering a move to Willmar, MN, the most important variables are the local housing market, the cost structure (taxes, insurance, utilities), and how well the city fits your day-to-day life. This page summarizes the housing market read; pair it with the cost of living page for the full picture.
Willmar is a city in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, with an estimated population of 21,892. The population grew 1.0% annually from 2020 to 2024, a moderate gain. The median home value in Willmar is $243,487 as of 2026-04, up 2.1% over the last 12 months. Over the last five years, home values have averaged +6.2% annual growth, with prices at or near the 5-year peak. Rents in Willmar average $1,135 per month. The composite momentum score is 71 of 100 (Rising). The market is healthy with prices supported by underlying demand.
Quiet strength: prices near or at all-time highs (+0.0% from 5-year peak). Solid market for owner-occupiers; investors should underwrite conservatively given the elevated entry point.
Reasons people move here
- Affordable AND rising: median home $243,487 with positive recent direction — rare combination most of the country can't offer.
- Healthy 5-year run: +6.2% annualized over 5 years, outpacing US inflation.
- Quiet strength: +2.1% over the trailing year — not a melt-up, but the market is bid.
- Net positive migration: population up 1.0% per year — demand fundamentals are intact.
Things to know first
- Local nuance: city-level data smooths over neighborhood differences. School zones, HOA rules, and street-level character matter — visit before deciding.
- Local nuance (school zones, neighborhood quality) varies block by block — visit before deciding.
More about Willmar
Sources: Zillow ZHVI (home values), Zillow ZORI (rents), US Census ACS + place population. Updated when source agencies publish revisions.