Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Clara City, MN
Considering Clara City, MN for your next home? This welcoming town of 1,258 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $142,000 and average rents at just $750. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate, short commutes averaging under 20 minutes, and strong community schools. With 62% sunny days a year and a relaxed rural pace, Clara City is ideal for those seeking comfort, value, and a friendly small-town atmosphere.
Demographics - Clara City, MN
Demographics - Clara City, MN
Clara City has a population of 1,258 with a median age of 46.1, reflecting a close-knit, mature community. The area is predominantly White, with a small percentage of residents identifying as non-English speakers, creating a largely homogenous and welcoming environment.
Population:
1,258
Density:
1,045 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.1
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
94.2%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
5.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Clara City, MN?
Living in Clara City is notably affordable, with a median home value of $142,000 and average rents around $750. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, making everyday expenses manageable for residents.
Median House Value:
$142,000
Gross Rent:
$750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.6
Grocery:
96.2
Housing:
58.0
Utilities:
94.7
Transportation:
92.2
Health Care:
98.3
Miscellaneous:
93.0
Crime
Is Clara City, MN a safe place to live?
Clara City enjoys a low violent crime rate of 113 per 100,000, offering a safe atmosphere for families and individuals. Property crime risk is moderate, with a 1 in 98 chance, but overall the city maintains a secure, small-town feel.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
113
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,020
Crime Index:
1,133
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 885
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Clara City, MN year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 83°F and cold winters dropping to 3°F. The city receives about 28.5 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine 62% of the year, providing a balanced climate for outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
3°F
Max:
24°F

Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
28.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Households in Clara City have a median income of $54,600, with a low unemployment rate of 3.8% and a poverty rate of 11.7%. Most residents commute under 20 minutes, reflecting a peaceful, community-oriented lifestyle with strong local ties.
Median Income:
$28,400
Household Income:
$54,600
Family Income:
$68,300
Per Capita Income:
$30,200
Income Male:
$39,500
Income Female:
$31,800
Poverty Rate:
11.7%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$750
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
18.9 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.7%
Bachelors or More:
19.6%
Education
How are the schools in Clara City, MN?
Clara City offers quality education with small class sizes at local public schools, such as MACCRAY West Elementary and MACCRAY High School. For higher education, Ridgewater College is located just 19 miles away in Willmar, making advanced learning accessible to residents.

Public Schools
Name:
MACCRAY West Elementary
Street:
309 1st Ave N
Phone:
320-847-2154
Students:
220
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.4
Name:
MACCRAY High School
Street:
711 Wolverine Dr
Phone:
320-847-2154
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2

Colleges
Name:
Ridgewater College
City:
Willmar
State:
MN
Distance:
19 miles
Students:
4,000
Healthcare
Clara City residents have access to quality healthcare, including Rice Memorial Hospital nearby in Willmar and a physician density of 1.9 per 1,000 people. A high health insurance coverage rate of 94.2% ensures most locals can access medical services when needed.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Rice Memorial Hospital
Address:
301 Becker Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201
Phone:
(320) 231-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.2%
Health Care Index:
77.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Clara City, MN?
The housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $142,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 77.1%. Homes in Clara City have seen modest appreciation, and rental options are available with an average two-bedroom rent of $750.
Median Home Price:
$142,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$750
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Vehicle and driver services for Clara City are provided by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, conveniently accessible online or at the main office in St. Paul. Residents can manage licensing, registration, and related needs through state resources.
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.