Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bemidji, MN
Bemidji, MN is a welcoming small city of 15,279 with a low median home price of $204,000 and average rents around $890, making it an affordable choice for newcomers. Residents enjoy short average commutes of under 14 minutes and a vibrant four-season climate with snowy winters and mild summers. While property crime rates are higher than national averages, the city offers access to strong local schools and Bemidji State University, plus excellent access to healthcare at Sanford Bemidji Medical Center. With an active outdoor lifestyle and affordable living, Bemidji is great for families and students alike.
Demographics - Bemidji, MN
Demographics - Bemidji, MN
Bemidji has a youthful population of about 15,279 residents, with a median age just under 30 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is predominantly White, but also includes a notable Native American presence, reflecting the area's regional heritage. With a moderate population density and a small percentage of non-English speakers, Bemidji offers a welcoming, close-knit atmosphere.
Population:
15,279
Density:
1,250 per sq mi
Median Age:
29.7
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.4%

Ethnic Composition
White:
81.5%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
7.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bemidji, MN?
Bemidji's cost of living is well below the national average, with a median home value of $204,000 and typical rents around $890 per month. Utility and grocery costs remain affordable, making the city attractive for both renters and homeowners. State income tax rates range from 5.35% to 9.85%, but overall living expenses are quite manageable for newcomers.
Median House Value:
$204,000
Gross Rent:
$890
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,185
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.3
Grocery:
97.2
Housing:
66.4
Utilities:
97.8
Transportation:
84.5
Health Care:
98.9
Miscellaneous:
95.1
Crime
Is Bemidji, MN a safe place to live?
Violent crime rates in Bemidji are relatively low, with a 1 in 317 chance of being affected, but property crime occurs more frequently at a rate of 2,758 incidents per 100,000 residents. The overall crime index suggests safety is comparable to many similar-sized cities, though residents should take standard precautions. Community policing and local awareness contribute to maintaining a safe environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
315
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,758
Crime Index:
3,073
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 317
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 36
Weather
What is the weather like in Bemidji, MN year-round?
Bemidji experiences classic northern Minnesota seasons, featuring snowy, cold winters with lows around -2°F and mild summers peaking near 78°F. The city sees 51% sunny days and almost 28 inches of annual rainfall, supporting a vibrant outdoor lifestyle year-round. Residents enjoy crisp autumns, cool springs, and plenty of opportunities for seasonal recreation.

Winter
Min:
-2°F
Max:
18°F

Spring
Min:
29°F
Max:
58°F

Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
78°F

Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
57°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
51%
Neighbors
The city is home to a diverse mix of households, with a median income of $28,900 and a family income around $64,700. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and average commute times are short at under 14 minutes. While the poverty rate is higher than average, Bemidji maintains a strong sense of community and affordable rental options.
Median Income:
$28,900
Household Income:
$48,580
Family Income:
$64,700
Per Capita Income:
$23,700
Income Male:
$32,900
Income Female:
$25,200
Poverty Rate:
23.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.4%
Rent:
$890
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
13.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.8%
Bachelors or More:
26.4%
Education
How are the schools in Bemidji, MN?
Bemidji offers a strong educational environment with several public and private schools, including Bemidji High School and Gene Dillon Elementary, and is home to nearly 5,000 college students at Bemidji State University. Local schools feature moderate student-teacher ratios and a variety of programs to support student success. The city’s mix of K-12 and higher education options makes it appealing to families and students alike.

Public Schools
Name:
Bemidji High School
Street:
2900 Division St W
Phone:
218-444-1600
Students:
1,500
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Name:
Gene Dillon Elementary
Street:
9150 Cardinal Rd NW
Phone:
218-333-3660
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8

Private Schools
Name:
St. Philip's School
Street:
702 Beltrami Ave NW
Phone:
218-444-4938
Students:
210

Colleges
Name:
Bemidji State University
City:
Bemidji
State:
MN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,900
Healthcare
Bemidji provides excellent healthcare access, highlighted by Sanford Bemidji Medical Center and a high rate of insured residents. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people and over 91% health insurance coverage, the city ensures residents can access quality medical services. Local healthcare facilities offer both emergency care and general medical support.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Sanford Bemidji Medical Center
Address:
1300 Anne St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
Phone:
(218) 751-5430
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.6%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bemidji, MN?
Bemidji's housing market is affordable and stable, with median home prices at $204,000 and average two-bedroom rents around $890. Nearly 44% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a low foreclosure rate and healthy home appreciation. Whether buying or renting, newcomers will find the housing market accessible and varied.
Median Home Price:
$204,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$890
Owner Occupied Rate:
43.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
The Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services office in Bemidji provides convenient access to licensing and vehicle registration at a central downtown location. Residents can handle DMV needs locally or online through the state’s official website. The office is easily reachable by phone for questions about services or documentation requirements.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
111 2nd St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
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.