Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Birchdale, MN
Considering a move to Birchdale, MN? This quiet rural community of about 120 people boasts an affordable cost of living with median home prices around $155,000 and average rent at $780. Crime rates are exceptionally low, and while winters are cold, you’ll enjoy a peaceful, close-knit lifestyle and easy access to nature. Commute times average 32.5 minutes, and residents benefit from high homeownership rates and basic amenities nearby, making Birchdale a practical choice for those seeking tranquility in northern Minnesota.
Demographics - Birchdale, MN
Demographics - Birchdale, MN
Birchdale is a small rural town with a population of 120, predominantly White, and a median age of 52, reflecting a mature and close-knit community. The gender balance is nearly even, and diversity is modest, with just 2.5% non-English speakers. Low population density offers a peaceful, spacious environment ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
120
Density:
8 per sq mi
Median Age:
52.2
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
6.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Birchdale, MN?
Living in Birchdale is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index of 89.5 and median home values at $155,000, well below national averages. Residents enjoy affordable rents and moderate utility costs, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing value. State taxes are in line with Minnesota norms, and everyday expenses such as groceries and healthcare remain reasonable.
Median House Value:
$155,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,020
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.5
Grocery:
95.0
Housing:
63.0
Utilities:
96.0
Transportation:
90.0
Health Care:
98.5
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Birchdale, MN a safe place to live?
Birchdale boasts exceptionally low crime rates, with just 65 violent crimes and 410 property crimes per 100,000 residents, making it one of the safer rural communities in Minnesota. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is only 1 in 1,538, offering peace of mind for families and retirees. Residents enjoy a secure and welcoming environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
65
Property Crimes Per 100k:
410
Crime Index:
475
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,538
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 244
Weather
What is the weather like in Birchdale, MN year-round?
Birchdale experiences cold winters with lows reaching -6°F, while summers are mild and pleasant with highs around 77°F. The area receives about 26 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 51% of the year. Residents should be prepared for snowy winters, but can look forward to comfortable summers and scenic seasonal changes.
Winter
Min:
-6°F
Max:
18°F
Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
56°F
Summer
Min:
49°F
Max:
77°F
Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
58°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
25.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
51%
Neighbors
Birchdale’s residents have a median household income of $56,200 and a poverty rate under 9%, reflecting a stable, working-class community. Most neighbors commute about 32 minutes for work, and nearly all adults have at least a high school education, fostering a supportive and engaged atmosphere. Public transportation is limited, emphasizing the rural character of the area.
Median Income:
$28,500
Household Income:
$56,200
Family Income:
$61,000
Per Capita Income:
$29,200
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$23,500
Poverty Rate:
8.7%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
4.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
32.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.6%
Bachelors or More:
22.7%
Education
How are the schools in Birchdale, MN?
Education in Birchdale is centered around Northome School, a nearby public school with a low student-teacher ratio, providing personalized attention to its 165 students. While private schools are not present locally, higher education opportunities are accessible at Bemidji State University, located about 82 miles away. Families will find a supportive learning environment with essential educational resources.
Public Schools
Name:
Northome School
Street:
11731 US-71, Northome, MN 56661
Phone:
218-897-5275
Students:
165
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.3
Colleges
Name:
Bemidji State University
City:
Bemidji
State:
MN
Distance:
82 miles
Students:
4,800
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Birchdale is supported by nearby Rainy Lake Medical Center and a high rate of health insurance coverage at nearly 93%. There are 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, and healthcare services are generally accessible within a short drive. The community benefits from essential medical amenities and responsive emergency care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Rainy Lake Medical Center
Address:
1400 US-71, International Falls, MN 56649
Phone:
(218) 283-5497
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
73.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Birchdale, MN?
Birchdale's housing market is highly affordable, with median home prices at $155,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom at $780. High homeownership rates at 87% and a low foreclosure rate suggest housing stability, while modest home appreciation offers gradual value growth. Rental options are available, but most residents own their homes.
Median Home Price:
$155,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$780
Owner Occupied Rate:
87.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Driver and vehicle services in Birchdale are managed by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, with resources available online and at the main office in St. Paul. Residents can access comprehensive information, licensing, and registration services through the state’s official website or by phone. This ensures convenient support for new arrivals and long-time locals alike.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
445 Minnesota St, 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.