Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Albert Lea, MN
Considering a move to Albert Lea, MN? With a welcoming population of 17,487 and affordable median home prices around $164,000, this city offers a low cost of living and quick average commutes of just 16 minutes. You'll enjoy four distinct seasons, over 60% sunny days, and access to quality healthcare at Mayo Clinic Health System. While the property crime rate is slightly above national average, Albert Lea features strong homeownership rates, affordable rents, and access to local public schools and community college—making it a practical choice for families and individuals alike.
Demographics - Albert Lea, MN
Demographics - Albert Lea, MN
Albert Lea is home to 17,487 residents, featuring a median age of 45.2 and a population density of 1,050 people per square mile. The community is predominantly White, with growing diversity and nearly 7% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. The city’s balanced gender ratio and mature age profile make it an inviting place for families and retirees.
Population:
17,487
Density:
1,050 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.9%
Ethnic Composition
White:
87.2%
Black:
2.5%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
8.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Albert Lea, MN?
Albert Lea offers a cost of living significantly below the national average, with a median home value of $164,000 and average rent at $860. Residents benefit from affordable utility and transportation costs, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers. State income taxes range from 5.35% to 9.85%, and the overall cost index stands at 83.2.
Median House Value:
$164,000
Gross Rent:
$860
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$116
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$495
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.2
Grocery:
95.0
Housing:
69.0
Utilities:
99.0
Transportation:
83.0
Health Care:
91.8
Miscellaneous:
89.5
Crime
Is Albert Lea, MN a safe place to live?
Albert Lea experiences a low violent crime rate of 185 incidents per 100,000 people, giving residents about a 1 in 540 chance of being affected. However, property crime is more prevalent, with rates slightly above the national average at 2,480 per 100,000. Overall, the city maintains a safe environment, especially regarding personal safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
185
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,480
Crime Index:
2,665
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 540
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 40
Weather
What is the weather like in Albert Lea, MN year-round?
Albert Lea experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 81°F and cold winters dipping as low as 6°F. The area receives about 32 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine 60% of the year. Residents can expect a true Midwestern climate, ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
6°F
Max:
26°F
Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Local households in Albert Lea have a median income of $56,107, with a family income of $67,200 and a poverty rate of 13.6%. Unemployment is low at 3.8%, and most residents have short commutes averaging 16 minutes. The community values education, with nearly 90% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$34,900
Household Income:
$56,107
Family Income:
$67,200
Per Capita Income:
$30,700
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$32,200
Poverty Rate:
13.6%
Non English Speakers:
6.9%
Rent:
$860
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
16.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.6%
Bachelors or More:
20.2%
Education
How are the schools in Albert Lea, MN?
Albert Lea offers diverse educational options, including public schools like Albert Lea Senior High and Hawthorne Elementary, both known for manageable class sizes. The presence of St. Theodore Catholic School and Riverland Community College provides families and students with a range of choices from elementary through post-secondary education. These resources make the city appealing for lifelong learning and family growth.
Public Schools
Name:
Albert Lea Senior High School
Street:
2000 Tiger Ln
Phone:
507-379-5340
Students:
1,060
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.4
Name:
Hawthorne Elementary School
Street:
1000 E Hawthorne St
Phone:
507-379-5170
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3
Private Schools
Name:
St. Theodore Catholic School
Street:
323 E Clark St
Phone:
507-373-9657
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Riverland Community College (Albert Lea Campus)
City:
Albert Lea
State:
MN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Albert Lea residents benefit from quality healthcare, anchored by the Mayo Clinic Health System which offers comprehensive services and emergency care. The city has 1.9 physicians per 1,000 residents, and over 92% have health insurance coverage. Healthcare access and affordability are strong, contributing to overall community well-being.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mayo Clinic Health System – Albert Lea
Address:
404 W Fountain St, Albert Lea, MN 56007
Phone:
(507) 373-2384
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.5%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Albert Lea, MN?
Albert Lea’s housing market is highly accessible, with a median home price of $164,000 and owner-occupancy at nearly 73%. Rents remain affordable at $860 for a two-bedroom, and the area enjoys a stable market with low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Home appreciation has been steady, making it suitable for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$164,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$860
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents can conveniently access driver and vehicle services through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety located in Albert Lea. The local DMV provides essential licensing and registration support, with up-to-date information available on the state’s official website. Friendly service and a central location make managing vehicle needs straightforward.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
222 Plaza St, Albert Lea, MN 56007
Phone:
(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.