Minnesota / Crow Wing County

Moving to Brainerd, MN

Thinking of making a move to Brainerd, MN? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Brainerd, MN

Considering a move to Brainerd, MN? This welcoming community of 14,420 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $197,000 and average rents near $950. Commute times average 17 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (57% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Brainerd's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Brainerd, MN

Brainerd has a population of 14,420 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 37 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 93% White, 1% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 4% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
14,420
Density
1,340 per sq mi
Median Age
36.9
Gender Ratio
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
4.3%

Ethnic Composition

White
92.8%
Black
1.1%
Asian
0.5%
Others
5.6%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Brainerd, MN?

The cost of living in Brainerd is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 86.7. Median home values are around $197,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $950. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$197,000
Gross Rent
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges
$115
Auto Insurance
$1,170
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,325
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$470
State Taxes
Low: 5.35%| High: 9.85%
Cost Of Living Index
86.7
Grocery
97.2
Housing
71.3
Utilities
98.5
Transportation
92.4
Health Care
104.2
Miscellaneous
97.8

Crime

Is Brainerd, MN a safe place to live?

Brainerd is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 297 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 45. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Minnesota.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
297
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,246
Crime Index
2,543
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 337
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 45

Weather

What is the weather like in Brainerd, MN year-round?

Brainerd experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 79°F and cold winters dipping to 1°F. The area receives about 27 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 57% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
1°F
Max
23°F

Summer

Min
54°F
Max
79°F

Spring

Min
29°F
Max
60°F

Fall

Min
32°F
Max
59°F
Average Rainfall Inches
27.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
57%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $42,800 and a low poverty rate of 19.6%. Over 89% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 17% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 17 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$30,700
Household Income
$42,800
Family Income
$56,200
Per Capita Income
$22,100
Income Male
$34,000
Income Female
$27,900
Poverty Rate
19.6%
Non English Speakers
4.3%
Rent
$950
Unemployment Rate
4.8%
Public Transport Usage
0.5%
Commute Time
17.1 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
88.6%
Bachelors or More
17.2%

Education

How are the schools in Brainerd, MN?

Brainerd offers quality education options, with public schools like Brainerd High School and Forestview Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Central Lakes College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Brainerd High School
Street
702 S 5th St
Phone
218-454-6200
Students
1,900
Student Teacher Ratio
17.3
Name
Forestview Middle School
Street
12149 Knollwood Dr
Phone
218-454-6000
Students
1,970
Student Teacher Ratio
18.1

Private Schools

Name
St. Francis of the Lakes Catholic School
Street
817 Juniper St
Phone
218-828-2345
Students
190

Colleges

Name
Central Lakes College
City
Brainerd
State
MN
Distance
0 miles
Students
5,400

Healthcare

Brainerd residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Essentia Health - St. Joseph's Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.9 per 1,000 people and 91.2% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Essentia Health - St. Joseph's Medical Center
Address
523 N 3rd St, Brainerd, MN 56401
Phone
(218) 828-7100
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage
91.2%
Health Care Index
72.4

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Brainerd, MN?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $197,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 48%. The market has seen a 7.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 7.3%. Brainerd offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$197,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$950
Owner Occupied Rate
47.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate
7.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
7.2%
New Construction Rate
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate
0.7%

DMV Information

Residents of Brainerd handle vehicle services through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety - Driver and Vehicle Services, conveniently located in Brainerd. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Minnesota
Department
Minnesota Department of Public Safety - Driver and Vehicle Services
Address
213 Laurel St, Brainerd, MN 56401
Phone
(651) 297-2126

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.

FAQs About Moving to Brainerd, MN

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Brainerd, review the core fields on this page: population 14,420, median home value $197,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $950, commute time 17.1 minutes, and sunny days percentage 57%.

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