Mortgage Rates in Forest Lake, Minnesota — April 2026
Updated April 2026 | Based on Forest Lake market data and regional lending conditions
Forest Lake is a smaller Minnesota community of 20,776 where the housing market reflects local economic conditions. The current 30-year fixed rate here is 6.72% (0.63% above the national average). At a median home price of $289,000, the estimated $1,765/month payment (with 20% down) is affordable on the local median income of $76,900.
Whether you call it a 30-year mortgage, 30-year home loan, 30-year house loan, or 30-year mortgage loan, the underlying product is the same: a fixed-rate amortizing loan paid over 360 months. In Forest Lake, MN, the current 30-year rate is 6.72%. Shorter terms (15-year fixed at 5.96% or 20-year fixed, typically priced between the 15- and 30-year) reduce total interest paid but increase monthly payments — see our 15-year vs 30-year comparison for the math. Government-backed options include FHA loans (6.48%) and VA loans (6.23%), often available at lower rates with reduced down payment requirements.
Current Mortgage Rates in Forest Lake, MN
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Forest Lake area as of April 2026. Rates vary by lender, credit score, and loan-to-value ratio. Use our free calculator above to see your personalized estimate.
| Loan Type | Rate | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Year Fixed | 6.72% | 6.09% | +0.63% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.96% | 5.58% | +0.38% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.23% | 5.95% | +0.28% |
| FHA | 6.48% | 5.85% | +0.63% |
| VA | 6.23% | 5.65% | +0.58% |
| Jumbo | 6.97% | 6.25% | +0.72% |
Forest Lake Housing Market Overview
At $289,000, Forest Lake offers more affordable housing than most U.S. metros. The local cost of living index is 93.7 (100 = national average), and the median household income of $76,900 provides comfortable purchasing power in this market.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Forest Lake
Based on the median home price of $289,000 with 20% down ($57,800), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Forest Lake:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Forest Lake
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Forest Lake at 5.96% instead of a 30-year at 6.72% would save you $187,920 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $1,946 instead of $1,495 — an increase of $451 per month.
Calculate Your Forest Lake Mortgage Payment
Use our free calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your loan amount, interest rate, and term.
Open Free CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions About Mortgages in Forest Lake
What are the current mortgage rates in Forest Lake, MN?
As of April 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Forest Lake, Minnesota is 6.72%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.96%. FHA loans average 6.48% and VA loans 6.23%. These rates are 0.63% above the national average of 6.09%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Forest Lake?
Based on the median home price of $289,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Forest Lake is $1,495 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $270/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $1,765.
What income do I need to buy a home in Forest Lake?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $75,643 to afford the median-priced home in Forest Lake at $289,000. The median household income in Forest Lake is $76,900. The median income is currently sufficient to meet this threshold.
Is Forest Lake a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Forest Lake offers a below-average cost of living with a cost of living index of 93.7 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in Minnesota is 1.12%, which is near the national average. Forest Lake has a population of 20,776 and offers a very affordable lifestyle.
Mortgage Rates in Other Minnesota Cities
Related Tools & Guides
📊 Sources & Methodology
- 30-yr/15-yr fixed rates: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS), weekly national average adjusted for Minnesota regional spread.
- Median home price: $289,000 sourced from Redfin / Zillow real estate listings (2026 data).
- Property tax rate: 1.12% effective rate per Tax Foundation 2026 state property tax data.
- Median household income: $76,900 per US Census Bureau ACS 5-year estimate.
- Calculations: standard amortization formula M = P[r(1+r)^n] / [(1+r)^n − 1], with r = monthly rate, n = 360 months, P = loan amount (80% of home price).
Last updated: April 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the Forest Lake, Minnesota area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.