Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Big Lake, MN
Considering a move to Big Lake, MN? This friendly city of 11,686 offers a relaxed small-town vibe with affordable median home prices around $304,000 and average rents of $1,320. Commute times average 31 minutes, and crime rates are notably low—violent crime stands at just 104 per 100K. With strong public schools, scenic weather featuring about 54% sunny days, and a cost of living slightly below the national average, Big Lake is a great choice for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Big Lake, MN
Demographics - Big Lake, MN
Big Lake, MN is home to 11,686 residents, with a median age of 33.7 and a population density of 1,040 people per square mile. The community is predominantly White, with a modest mix of other ethnic groups, and about 7.8% of locals speak a language other than English at home, reflecting some cultural diversity.
Population:
11,686
Density:
1,040 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.7
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.5%
Black:
2.5%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
7.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Big Lake, MN?
Big Lake offers a cost of living slightly below the national average, with a median home value of $304,000 and average rent around $1,320. Everyday expenses such as groceries and transportation are reasonably priced, making the city an affordable option for families and individuals.
Median House Value:
$304,000
Gross Rent:
$1,320
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,280
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,890
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$680
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.5
Grocery:
97.2
Housing:
91.8
Utilities:
104.5
Transportation:
96.1
Health Care:
98.2
Miscellaneous:
99.0
Crime
Is Big Lake, MN a safe place to live?
Residents of Big Lake enjoy a low crime environment, with violent crime rates at just 104 per 100,000 people and a 1 in 961 chance of being a victim. Property crime is also relatively uncommon, contributing to the city's reputation for safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
104
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,140
Crime Index:
1,244
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 961
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 88
Weather
What is the weather like in Big Lake, MN year-round?
Big Lake experiences the full range of Minnesota seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 4°F and warm summers reaching up to 82°F. The city receives about 30.7 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunny conditions 54% of the year, making for a pleasant and varied climate.
Winter
Min:
4°F
Max:
25°F
Spring
Min:
33°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
30.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Households in Big Lake typically earn around $89,500, with a low poverty rate of 5.7% and a high school graduation rate near 95%. Commute times average just over 31 minutes, and public transportation usage is minimal, reflecting the area's suburban character.
Median Income:
$42,600
Household Income:
$89,500
Family Income:
$96,200
Per Capita Income:
$35,700
Income Male:
$51,400
Income Female:
$41,200
Poverty Rate:
5.7%
Non English Speakers:
7.8%
Rent:
$1,320
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
31.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.8%
Bachelors or More:
26.3%
Education
How are the schools in Big Lake, MN?
Big Lake offers strong educational opportunities, with well-regarded public schools like Big Lake High School and Middle School serving local students. Residents also benefit from nearby higher education options, including St. Cloud State University and Anoka-Ramsey Community College within a short drive.
Public Schools
Name:
Big Lake High School
Street:
501 Minnesota Ave E
Phone:
763-262-2547
Students:
1,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Big Lake Middle School
Street:
601 Minnesota Ave E
Phone:
763-262-2537
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.7
Private Schools
Name:
St. Andrew Catholic School
Street:
428 Irving Ave, Elk River, MN
Phone:
763-441-2216
Students:
320
Colleges
Name:
St. Cloud State University
City:
St. Cloud
State:
MN
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
11,700
Name:
Anoka-Ramsey Community College
City:
Cambridge
State:
MN
Distance:
23 miles
Students:
4,000
Healthcare
Big Lake residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals such as CentraCare Health – Monticello and Fairview Northland Medical Center nearby. Health insurance coverage is high at 94.4%, and there are 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring accessible medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
CentraCare Health – Monticello
Address:
1013 Hart Blvd, Monticello, MN 55362
Phone:
(763) 295-2945
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Fairview Northland Medical Center
Address:
911 Northland Dr, Princeton, MN 55371
Phone:
(763) 389-1313
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.4%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Big Lake, MN?
The housing market in Big Lake is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $304,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of nearly 80%. Home values have appreciated by 4.1% over the past year, and rental vacancies remain low, offering a range of options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$304,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,320
Owner Occupied Rate:
79.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
2.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Big Lake residents are served by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Driver and Vehicle Services, located in St. Paul. The DMV provides comprehensive services for licensing and registration, with up-to-date information available on their official website.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
445 Minnesota St, Suite 190, St Paul, MN 55101
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.