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Studio Apartment for Rent in Brainerd, MN

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    • Studio

    516 W College Dr, Brainerd, MN 56401

    Located just west of the Mississippi River, in beautiful Brainerd, MN, Colonywood Apartments is the perfect place to call home! Within our six properties we offer a great sense of community, competitive rental pricing, on-site laundry, controlled entrances and full-time on-site property manager and maintenance staff. We are centrally located and within walking distance of local shops,

    Colonywood

    516 W College Dr, Brainerd, MN 56401

Why Live in Brainerd

Brainerd, Minnesota, known as the state's vacationland, attracts both seasonal visitors and full-time residents with its scenic lakefront living and outdoor activities. Situated between the Whitefish Chain of Lakes and the Gull Chain of Lakes, Brainerd offers year-round attractions such as fishing, snowmobiling, and golfing on championship courses like Deacon’s Lodge, designed by Arnold Palmer. The city is home to a diverse range of homes, from modest bungalows to luxury lakefront mansions, reflecting its growing real estate market. Brainerd Public Schools and Lowell Elementary are highly rated, providing quality education options for families. Dining options abound, particularly around the Gull Chain of Lakes, where 17 restaurants offer everything from fine dining to casual fare. Despite its appeal, potential residents should be prepared for Brainerd's humid continental climate, which brings warm summers and harsh winters. The city is well-connected by Minnesota State Highways and has an airport offering flights to Minneapolis, just two hours away. Annual events like the Fourth of July celebrations and the Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza highlight the community's vibrant social calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Brainerd, MN?
The median rent for a home in Brainerd, MN is $1,117 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of August 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Brainerd, MN?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Brainerd, MN, a household needs to earn roughly $44,680 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,117 per month in Brainerd, MN, renters typically need to show $3,351 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Brainerd, MN?
In Brainerd, MN, the price-to-rent ratio is 20.1, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
1
Median Rent
$1,117
Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,198
Median Condo Rent
$1,043
How to Rent a Home