Rice County offers building opportunities in Southeast Minnesota, though some factors need consideration.
📊50/100AcreScore
💰$9KLand $/acre
🏠$250KHome Value
👥66,972Population
📈+3.5%Growth (10yr)
🌊7%Flood RiskLow
🌡️Cold HumidClimateZone 6A
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Rice County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
⚠️ Conditional
Agricultural
None
✅ Yes
Commercial
Varies
❌ No
Rice County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Minnesota requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Rice County Building Department
Faribault, MN
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Moderate flood risk. 7% of county land is in FEMA flood zones. Most buildable parcels are outside hazard areas, but always verify your specific site.
7%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Varies
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Affordable land market. At roughly $9,000 per acre, Rice County offers good value for builders looking for rural acreage.
$9K
Median $/acre
$250K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
1.07%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Rice County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Rice County sits in the heart of Southeast Minnesota. Minneapolis is 50 min away. Minnesota has a state income tax — factor that into your cost-of-living calculations.
🏗️
Affordable Land
Median land at $9,000/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
🏠
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability — you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population66,972
10-Year Growth+3.5%
County SeatFaribault
State Income TaxYes
ClimateCold Humid (Zone 6A)
How Close Is Everything?
Minneapolis50 min
MSP50 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Rice County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Faribault. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageGood
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
USDA Rural Development loans are generally not available in Rice County due to urban classification. FHA, VA, and conventional financing options are available.
New listings, zoning changes, and builder availability — delivered to your inbox.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Rice County?
Check with the Rice County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Rice County?
Median price is approximately $9,000 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements.
Is Rice County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Most of Rice County is not eligible for USDA Rural Development due to its urban/suburban classification. Check the USDA eligibility map for specific addresses.
What is the property tax rate in Rice County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 1.07%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Rice County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Minnesota, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.