Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Clarissa, MN
Considering a move to Clarissa, MN? This close-knit town of 657 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $132,000 and average rents at $790. Residents enjoy low violent crime rates (78 per 100K), short commutes averaging just under 20 minutes, and access to quality local healthcare and schools. With strong home ownership, a friendly rural vibe, and four-season weather, Clarissa is a great option for those seeking a peaceful Minnesota lifestyle.
Demographics - Clarissa, MN
Demographics - Clarissa, MN
Clarissa is a small, close-knit community with a population of 657 residents and a moderate density of 540 people per square mile. The town's population is predominantly White, with a median age of 45.2 years, indicating a mature and stable environment. A low percentage of non-English speakers and an almost even gender ratio contribute to its welcoming, homogenous feel.
Population:
657
Density:
540 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.8%
Black:
0.2%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
3.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Clarissa, MN?
Living in Clarissa is notably affordable, with a median home value of $132,000 and average monthly rent of $790. The cost of living index sits below the national average at 86.4, making everyday expenses such as utilities, groceries, and transportation quite budget-friendly. State taxes range from 5.35% to 9.85%, allowing residents to enjoy quality living without high financial stress.
Median House Value:
$132,000
Gross Rent:
$790
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,040
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$970
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.4
Grocery:
93.5
Housing:
69.8
Utilities:
92.1
Transportation:
89.0
Health Care:
94.8
Miscellaneous:
88.6
Crime
Is Clarissa, MN a safe place to live?
Clarissa offers a safe environment, with a low violent crime rate of 78 per 100,000 and a property crime rate that is below many urban centers. The chance of experiencing violent crime is just 1 in 1,282, making the town an appealing choice for families and retirees. Residents can feel secure while enjoying the relaxed pace of small-town life.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
78
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,120
Crime Index:
1,198
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,282
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in Clarissa, MN year-round?
Clarissa experiences all four seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm summers reaching up to 81°F. The area receives about 27.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 54% of the year, offering residents a classic Minnesota climate. Seasonal changes bring a variety of outdoor activities and picturesque scenery.

Winter
Min:
0°F
Max:
23°F

Spring
Min:
31°F
Max:
61°F

Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
33°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Residents of Clarissa typically have a median household income of $48,200, with a poverty rate of 12.6%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and unemployment is relatively low at 3.7%, reflecting a stable workforce. Commute times are short, averaging under 20 minutes, and the town maintains a friendly, neighborly atmosphere.
Median Income:
$32,500
Household Income:
$48,200
Family Income:
$62,000
Per Capita Income:
$25,100
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
12.6%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$790
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
19.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.5%
Bachelors or More:
16.5%
Education
How are the schools in Clarissa, MN?
Clarissa offers quality education through its local public school, Browerville Public School, which maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio of 13.1. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is accessible at Central Lakes College, just 18 miles away in Staples. The community values education, with nearly 90% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.

Public Schools
Name:
Browerville Public School
Street:
620 Park Ave N, Browerville, MN 56438
Phone:
320-594-2272
Students:
450
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1

Colleges
Name:
Central Lakes College
City:
Staples
State:
MN
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
4,900
Healthcare
Clarissa residents have access to quality healthcare with major hospitals such as Tri-County Health Care and Lakewood Health System nearby. The community boasts a strong rate of health insurance coverage at 92.7% and a healthcare index of 79.3. With 1.4 physicians per 1,000 people, essential medical services are readily available.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Tri-County Health Care – Wadena
Address:
415 Jefferson St N, Wadena, MN 56482
Phone:
(218) 631-3510
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Lakewood Health System – Staples
Address:
49725 County Road 83, Staples, MN 56479
Phone:
(218) 894-1515
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.7%
Health Care Index:
79.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Clarissa, MN?
The housing market in Clarissa is both accessible and stable, featuring a median home price of $132,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of nearly 77%. Renters can find affordable options, with average two-bedroom rents at $790 and a moderate vacancy rate. Home values have seen consistent appreciation, making it a sound choice for first-time buyers and families alike.
Median Home Price:
$132,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$790
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
For driver and vehicle services, Clarissa residents are served by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, located in St. Paul. The department offers a comprehensive range of licensing and registration services both online and in-person. Residents can find more information or schedule appointments through the official state website.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
445 Minnesota St, Suite 190, St. Paul, MN 55101
Phone:
651-296-6911
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.