Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Aitkin, MN
Considering a move to Aitkin, MN? With a close-knit population of around 2,100, Aitkin offers affordable living—median home prices are about $177,000 and 2-bedroom rents average $840. Commute times are short at under 18 minutes, and the city enjoys low violent crime rates (174 per 100k). Aitkin features quality local healthcare, friendly schools, and four distinct seasons—perfect for those seeking small-town charm and outdoor recreation in a scenic Minnesota setting.
Demographics - Aitkin, MN
Demographics - Aitkin, MN
Aitkin is a small, close-knit community of about 2,100 residents, with a median age of 48.6, reflecting a mature population. The city is predominantly White, and the population density of 950 people per square mile gives it a friendly small-town atmosphere. Non-English speakers make up a modest 3.5%, contributing to a largely English-speaking community.
Population:
2,100
Density:
950 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.6
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
94.2%
Black:
0.6%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
4.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Aitkin, MN?
Aitkin boasts an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $177,000 and average rents at $840 for a two-bedroom apartment. Everyday expenses, such as utilities and groceries, are lower than the national average, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious residents. State income tax rates range from 5.35% to 9.85%, but overall cost of living is well below the U.S. average.
Median House Value:
$177,000
Gross Rent:
$840
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,170
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.4
Grocery:
97.0
Housing:
70.2
Utilities:
92.5
Transportation:
89.0
Health Care:
93.8
Miscellaneous:
91.2
Crime
Is Aitkin, MN a safe place to live?
Aitkin offers a relatively safe environment, with a low violent crime rate of 174 per 100,000 residents and property crime at 1,980 per 100,000. The odds of experiencing violent crime are about 1 in 575, making it a reassuring choice for families and retirees. Property crime rates are typical for small towns and highlight the community's secure atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
174
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,980
Crime Index:
2,154
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 575
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 50
Weather
What is the weather like in Aitkin, MN year-round?
Residents of Aitkin experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows around 1°F and pleasant summers reaching up to 80°F. The area receives about 27 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine approximately 52% of the year. These weather patterns support a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
1°F
Max:
23°F

Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
53°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
59°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The median household income in Aitkin is $41,200, with a poverty rate of 18.4%, reflecting a mix of working families and retirees. Most residents have at least a high school education, and average commute times are short at just under 18 minutes. Public transportation use is minimal, emphasizing the town's rural character and reliance on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$27,800
Household Income:
$41,200
Family Income:
$52,400
Per Capita Income:
$24,700
Income Male:
$32,500
Income Female:
$27,200
Poverty Rate:
18.4%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$840
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
17.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.6%
Bachelors or More:
18.2%
Education
How are the schools in Aitkin, MN?
Aitkin supports quality public education, with two main schools—Aitkin Secondary and Rippleside Elementary—serving local students and maintaining favorable student-to-teacher ratios. While there are no private schools in town, post-secondary options are available nearby, with Central Lakes College just 32 miles away in Brainerd. The community values education, with most adults holding at least a high school diploma.

Public Schools
Name:
Aitkin Secondary School
Street:
306 2nd St NW
Phone:
218-927-2115
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
Rippleside Elementary School
Street:
225 2nd Ave SW
Phone:
218-927-4838
Students:
530
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2

Colleges
Name:
Central Lakes College - Brainerd
City:
Brainerd
State:
MN
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
5,400
Healthcare
Aitkin provides reliable healthcare access, anchored by Riverwood Healthcare Center, which offers general and emergency services. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and 93.6% health insurance coverage, residents benefit from strong local medical support. The healthcare index indicates above-average quality and availability for a city of its size.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Riverwood Healthcare Center
Address:
200 Bunker Hill Dr, Aitkin, MN 56431
Phone:
(218) 927-2121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.6%
Health Care Index:
76.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Aitkin, MN?
Aitkin's housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $177,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of 67.3%. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $840 and a moderate vacancy rate. Home values have appreciated by 4.5% over the past year, signaling gradual growth.
Median Home Price:
$177,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$840
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.5%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Aitkin residents are served by the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services office at 316 2nd Ave NW, providing convenient access for licensing and vehicle registration. The office offers essential DMV services locally, with information available online or by phone. This accessibility streamlines vehicle and driver management for locals.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
316 2nd Ave NW, Aitkin, MN 56431
Phone:
1-651-297-2126
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.