Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Central Lakes, MN
Thinking of moving to Central Lakes, MN? This small community of about 2,100 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $248,000 and average rents at $920. Residents enjoy short 18-minute commutes, low violent crime rates, and a friendly, close-knit atmosphere. Excellent access to outdoor recreation, decent schools, and four-season weather make Central Lakes a great choice for those seeking a peaceful Minnesota lifestyle.
Demographics - Central Lakes, MN
Demographics - Central Lakes, MN
Central Lakes is a close-knit community of about 2,100 residents, with a median age of 44.2 and a predominantly White population. Most locals speak English, and the area maintains a balanced gender ratio, creating a welcoming and neighborly environment.
Population:
2,100
Density:
250 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.3%

Ethnic Composition
White:
93.2%
Black:
0.8%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
5.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Central Lakes, MN?
The cost of living in Central Lakes is below the national average, with a median home value of $248,000 and average monthly rent at $920. Everyday expenses such as groceries and utilities are also affordable, making the city attractive for families and retirees alike.
Median House Value:
$248,000
Gross Rent:
$920
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,330
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
91.2
Grocery:
97.1
Housing:
80.5
Utilities:
100.7
Transportation:
95.3
Health Care:
98.4
Miscellaneous:
94.6
Crime
Is Central Lakes, MN a safe place to live?
Central Lakes boasts a low violent crime rate, with only 126 incidents per 100,000 people and a 1 in 794 chance of experiencing violent crime. Residents enjoy a sense of security, though property crime rates are moderate, making it important to take routine precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
126
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,150
Crime Index:
1,276
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 794
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 87
Weather
What is the weather like in Central Lakes, MN year-round?
Residents of Central Lakes experience true four-season weather, from cold, snowy winters with lows near 0°F to warm summers reaching 80°F. The area receives about 27.5 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunny skies about 56% of the year, ideal for outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
0°F
Max:
23°F

Spring
Min:
31°F
Max:
61°F

Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
The typical household income in Central Lakes is $61,200, with a low unemployment rate of 3.8% and a poverty rate under 10%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and commutes are short, averaging just 18 minutes.
Median Income:
$36,500
Household Income:
$61,200
Family Income:
$74,800
Per Capita Income:
$30,400
Income Male:
$40,100
Income Female:
$32,800
Poverty Rate:
9.7%
Non English Speakers:
7.2%
Rent:
$920
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
18.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
92.8%
Bachelors or More:
24.7%
Education
How are the schools in Central Lakes, MN?
Families in Central Lakes benefit from reputable public schools like Pequot Lakes High School and Eagle View Elementary, both offering favorable student-teacher ratios. The area also features private school options and is within 15 miles of Central Lakes College, supporting lifelong learning opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Pequot Lakes High School
Street:
30805 Olson St, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472
Phone:
218-568-9210
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Eagle View Elementary
Street:
6539 Co Rd 11, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472
Phone:
218-562-6100
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1

Private Schools
Name:
St. Francis Catholic School
Street:
817 Juniper St, Brainerd, MN 56401
Phone:
218-828-3285
Students:
220

Colleges
Name:
Central Lakes College - Brainerd
City:
Brainerd
State:
MN
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
4,500
Healthcare
Central Lakes residents have access to quality healthcare, including Essentia Health St. Joseph's Medical Center nearby, and a high physician-to-population ratio of 2.5 per 1,000. Over 92% of locals have health insurance coverage, helping ensure community well-being.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Essentia Health St. Joseph's Medical Center
Address:
523 N 3rd St, Brainerd, MN 56401
Phone:
(218) 829-2861
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
79.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Central Lakes, MN?
The housing market in Central Lakes is stable, with a median home price of $248,000 and a 76% owner-occupancy rate. Home values have appreciated by nearly 5% over the past year, and rental options remain available with a 6% vacancy rate.
Median Home Price:
$248,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$920
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.9%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Central Lakes DMV services are managed by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, offering convenient access to licensing and vehicle registration both online and at the main office in St. Paul. Residents can find up-to-date information and resources on the 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.