Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cass Lake, MN
Considering Cass Lake, MN for your next move? This small community of about 675 residents features affordable housing with median home prices at $92,000 and average rents near $740. Daily life is budget-friendly, with a cost of living well below the national average. While crime rates are higher than average, local schools are close-knit, and the area boasts a strong Native American heritage and access to beautiful northern Minnesota lakes and forests. Commutes are short (around 17 minutes), and residents enjoy four distinct seasons, making it an attractive spot for those seeking rustic charm and outdoor recreation.
Demographics - Cass Lake, MN
Demographics - Cass Lake, MN
Cass Lake is a small city of 675 residents with a youthful median age of 32.1 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is predominantly Native American, comprising nearly 70% of the population, and about 7% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The city offers a close-knit, culturally rich environment appealing to those seeking diversity in a rural setting.
Population:
675
Density:
840 per sq mi
Median Age:
32.1
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
21.3%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
8.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cass Lake, MN?
Living in Cass Lake is highly affordable, with a median home value of just $92,000 and average rent around $740. The cost of living index is 81.7, significantly below the national average, making everyday expenses such as housing, groceries, and utilities budget-friendly. Residents also benefit from moderate state income taxes and low homeowner costs, especially for those without a mortgage.
Median House Value:
$92,000
Gross Rent:
$740
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,170
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$990
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.7
Grocery:
94.5
Housing:
62.0
Utilities:
97.6
Transportation:
94.0
Health Care:
110.3
Miscellaneous:
94.2
Crime
Is Cass Lake, MN a safe place to live?
Cass Lake experiences higher crime rates than many areas, with a 1 in 112 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 31 chance for property crime annually. While these statistics may be a concern, community awareness and engagement play key roles in local safety. Prospective residents should consider these factors when evaluating neighborhoods within the city.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
895
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,250
Crime Index:
4,145
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 112
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in Cass Lake, MN year-round?
Cass Lake experiences all four seasons, with cold winters dipping to 0°F and pleasant summers reaching up to 79°F. The area receives about 26.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 53% of the year. This climate is ideal for those who appreciate crisp winters and moderate, enjoyable summers surrounded by northern Minnesota’s natural beauty.
Winter
Min:
0°F
Max:
21°F
Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
57°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
79°F
Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
59°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
26.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
The city’s residents have a median household income of $32,600 and face a higher-than-average poverty rate at 31.5%. Education levels show that nearly 79% have completed high school, and daily commutes are short, averaging just under 17 minutes. Cass Lake is a close-knit community, but economic opportunities and public transportation options are limited.
Median Income:
$23,700
Household Income:
$32,600
Family Income:
$36,800
Per Capita Income:
$16,900
Income Male:
$29,000
Income Female:
$24,000
Poverty Rate:
31.5%
Non English Speakers:
7.0%
Rent:
$740
Unemployment Rate:
10.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
16.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
78.8%
Bachelors or More:
11.7%
Education
How are the schools in Cass Lake, MN?
Cass Lake offers local public schools with small class sizes and a supportive learning environment, such as Cass Lake-Bena Elementary and High School. Higher education is accessible through Leech Lake Tribal College in town and Bemidji State University just 16 miles away. The city’s educational options are ideal for families seeking a community-focused academic experience.
Public Schools
Name:
Cass Lake-Bena Elementary School
Street:
15 4th St NW
Phone:
218-335-2201
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2
Name:
Cass Lake-Bena High School
Street:
15308 State 371 NW
Phone:
218-335-2203
Students:
260
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.7
Colleges
Name:
Leech Lake Tribal College
City:
Cass Lake
State:
MN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
250
Name:
Bemidji State University
City:
Bemidji
State:
MN
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
5,100
Healthcare
Cass Lake provides accessible healthcare with the Indian Health Service Hospital located in town and a larger medical center nearby in Bemidji. Residents have an above-average rate of health insurance coverage at 84.1% and can access general, outpatient, and emergency services within a short distance. The city’s healthcare resources are well-suited for a small community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Cass Lake Indian Health Service Hospital
Address:
425 7th Street NW, Cass Lake, MN 56633
Phone:
(218) 335-3200
Type:
General & Outpatient
Emergency Services:
Yes
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:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
84.1%
Health Care Index:
77.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cass Lake, MN?
The housing market in Cass Lake is affordable, featuring a median home price of $92,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $740. Over half of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a moderate vacancy rate and steady appreciation. The market suits first-time buyers and renters seeking budget-friendly options in a rural setting.
Median Home Price:
$92,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$740
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents of Cass Lake can access driver and vehicle services through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, with the main office in St. Paul and comprehensive online resources available. Services include licensing, registration, and title transfers. For convenience, most DMV needs can be handled via the department’s official website.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety - Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
445 Minnesota Street, 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.