Population
1,000 - 5,000
~1,858 residents
Median Income
$54,329
Household median
Home Value
$86,800
Median price
Area Type
Rural
237.0 sq mi
Location
Detailed Information
Demographics
- Population Range:
- 1,000 - 5,000
- Median Income:
- $54,329
- Classification:
- Rural
Housing Market
- Median Value:
- $86,800
- Price Range:
- $75,000 - $100,000
- Land Area:
- 237.0 sq mi
Data Quality: 100%
ExcellentData from US Census Bureau 2023 • US Census Bureau
Zillow Home Value Index
Real-time market data powered by Zillow • Updated October 2025
Typical Home Value in 56296
Price Appreciation
Historical Price Trend
Historical home values show market trends over time. Values are smoothed and seasonally adjusted.
Investment Insight
Strong appreciation: This ZIP code has seen +14.97% growth over the past year, outpacing many markets.
💡 Note: Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Consider local market factors, job growth, and development plans when evaluating real estate investments.
Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) data provided by Zillow Group. ZHVI represents the typical home value for homes in the 35th to 65th percentile range. Data is updated monthly and reflects market trends as of October 31, 2025.
Median Income
$54,329
vs state avg
Median Home Value
$86,800
vs state avg
Population
1,858
Rural
Quality of Life
71/100
Good
What's It Like to Live in Wheaton?
Key insights about ZIP 56296 at a glance
Population
1,858
Rural community
Median Income
$54k
Household earnings
Median Home Value
$87k
Housing market
Affordability
1.6
Price-to-income ratio
Your Day in Wheaton
Start your day with quality education options in Wheaton
Explore local shops and restaurants in Wheaton
Unwind in green spaces and community areas in Wheaton
Quick Compare
See how this stacks up
Explore Wheaton, MN
Visual guide to life in this area
Economy & Employment
Job market and economic indicators
Median Household Income
$54,329
Median Home Value
$86,800
Home-to-Income Ratio
1.6x
Education & Schools
Educational opportunities and demographics in 56296
Local Schools
Wheaton offers diverse educational opportunities for all ages
85%
Estimated graduates
409
School-age residents
School Quality
Above Average
Based on area demographics
Healthcare & Wellness
Medical facilities and health resources in your area
Quality Healthcare Access
Wheaton area has multiple medical facilities serving the community
5-10
Healthcare facilities nearby
< 5mi
Average distance to hospital
Parks & Recreation
Outdoor spaces and recreational activities
Community Parks
Multiple green spaces and recreational facilities for families
Parks
3-5 nearby
Sports
Fields & courts
Trails
Walking paths
Events
Community gatherings
Shopping & Dining
Retail, restaurants, and local businesses
Local Shopping
Wheaton offers diverse shopping and dining experiences
Restaurants
20+ dining options
Retail Stores
Major & local shops
Cafes & More
Local favorites
Pros & Cons of Living in ZIP 56296
Advantages
- Affordable housing with median home value at $86,800
- Low population density offers peace and quiet
- Rural character with natural surroundings
- Strong affordability with home prices around 1.6x median income
- Small, tight-knit community atmosphere
Considerations
- Below-average median income compared to state
- Limited access to urban amenities and services
Living in Wheaton, MN 56296
Wheaton offers a unique lifestyle in the heart of MN. This rural community provides residents with a close-knit community feel.
Spacious Living
Large lots, privacy, and connection to nature.
Car-Dependent
Personal vehicle necessary for most daily activities.
Who Lives Here
Working class families, young professionals, and service industry workers.
Lifestyle & Activities
Rural residents who appreciate open spaces, privacy, and connection to nature.
Household Composition
Family households with multi-generational homes and long-term residents.
What's Life Like Here? (AI Insights)
Data & Demographics
Demographic Distribution
Age Distribution
Education Levels
ZIP 56296 by the Numbers
Interactive data visualizations for Rural living
Total Population
0
Median Income
$0
Home Value
$0
Quality Score
0/100
Comparative Metrics
1.9% of max (100,000)
36.2% of max (150,000)
10.8% of max (800,000)
68.05
out of 100
Affordability
3.72
out of 100
Community Size
36.22
out of 100
Economic Strength
Transportation & Commute
Average commute time is approximately 35 minutes, typical for rural areas.
Distance to Major Cities
Regional Hub
15-40 miles
25-60 min
drive time
Note: Commute times are estimates and may vary based on traffic conditions, time of day, and specific locations.
Weather & Climate
Climate Type
Varied regional climate
Seasonal Pattern
Four distinct seasons with typical North American weather patterns
Weather Highlights
- Seasonal variety
- Regional weather characteristics
- Diverse outdoor activities
Discover Wheaton Amenities
Everything you need, right in your neighborhood
Schools
12+ locations
Healthcare
8+ locations
Shopping
50+ locations
Parks
15+ locations
How Does Wheaton Stack Up?
See how ZIP 56296 compares to state and national averages
Income Comparison
Home Value Comparison
Ready to Explore More?
Compare Wheaton with other areas or find your perfect ZIP code match
Living Here: Pros & Cons (AI Analysis)
Who Lives Here?
Community Profile
ZIP code 56296 in Wheaton, MN (Traverse) is a small community with approximately 1,858 residents. The area is classified as rural, offering a peaceful, rural environment.
Income Demographics
The median household income is $54,329, which is around national average. This suggests a community with diverse economic backgrounds and accessible cost of living.
Fun Fact: Rural communities often appeal to those seeking space, nature, and a slower pace of life.
Housing & Rent
Median Home Value
$86,800
Affordable Market
Est. Monthly Rent
$347
Typical 2-3BR
Market Overview
The housing market in ZIP 56296 is excellent for first-time buyers and investors. With a median home value of $86,800, this area offers attractive opportunities for buyers at various price points.
Rent vs Buy
Renting in this ZIP code typically costs around $347/month for a 2-3 bedroom home. The moderate rental prices make this area accessible for both renters and buyers.
Jobs & Income
Median Household Income
$54,329
Per Year
Job Market
Wheaton offers a growing job market with opportunities primarily in agriculture, manufacturing, and local services. The local economy supports a mix of traditional and emerging industries.
Commute & Transportation
Average commute times in this area are approximately 15-25 minutes. Personal vehicles are essential, though traffic is generally light.
Schools Overview
School Quality
ZIP code 56296 in Wheaton, MN generally features a mix of school quality and programs. The area's varied school ratings make it suitable for families seeking quality education options.
Education Options
Families in this ZIP code typically have access to public schools, private institutions, and charter options. Rural schools typically offer smaller class sizes and tight-knit communities.
Is ZIP 56296 a Good Place to Live?
Whether ZIP code 56296 in Wheaton, MN is right for you depends on your priorities. Here's a balanced look:
Pros
- ✓Peaceful environment with outdoor space
- ✓Affordable housing options
Cons
- ⚠Limited access to urban amenities
The Bottom Line
ZIP code 56296 is well-suited for individuals and families who value tranquility, nature, and a tight-knit community. Consider visiting the area and exploring nearby neighborhoods to get a true feel for the lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
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