Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cokato, MN
Considering a move to Cokato, MN? With a cozy population of 2,832, Cokato offers affordable living—median home prices are around $235,000 and average rents at $920. Residents enjoy low violent crime rates (92 per 100K), short commutes averaging 22.7 minutes, and a friendly small-town feel. The city features quality public schools, a family-friendly atmosphere, and four-season Minnesota weather with 56% sunny days. Explore Cokato’s affordable housing, safe streets, and welcoming community for your next home.
Demographics - Cokato, MN
Demographics - Cokato, MN
Cokato is a close-knit community of 2,832 residents with a median age of 36.8, reflecting a balanced mix of families and working adults. The population is predominantly White, with a small but diverse representation of other groups, and about 7.5% of locals speak a language other than English at home. The city’s moderate population density of 1,350 per square mile helps maintain a comfortable, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
2,832
Density:
1,350 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.8
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
93.1%
Black:
1.1%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
5.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cokato, MN?
Living in Cokato is budget-friendly, with a median home value of $235,000 and average rent around $920, making it more affordable than many areas in Minnesota. The cost of living index is below the national average at 93.4, and utilities, groceries, and transportation remain accessible for most residents. State income taxes range from 5.35% to 9.85%, which is typical for Minnesota.
Median House Value:
$235,000
Gross Rent:
$920
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,410
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$510
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
93.4
Grocery:
96.2
Housing:
87.9
Utilities:
98.1
Transportation:
88.5
Health Care:
102.3
Miscellaneous:
95.0
Crime
Is Cokato, MN a safe place to live?
Cokato is a relatively safe place to live, with a low violent crime rate of just 92 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime risk of 1 in 89. Residents enjoy peace of mind thanks to crime rates well below national averages, contributing to the city’s welcoming and secure environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
92
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,120
Crime Index:
1,212
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,087
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in Cokato, MN year-round?
Cokato experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging highs of 23°F and pleasant summers reaching up to 82°F. The city receives nearly 30 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 56% of the year, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes provide a classic Minnesota experience with vibrant falls and snowy winters.

Winter
Min:
3°F
Max:
23°F

Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
82°F

Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
29.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Residents of Cokato benefit from a median household income of $67,900 and a low unemployment rate of 3.2%, supporting a stable local economy. The community is well-educated, with over 91% holding at least a high school diploma, and enjoys short average commutes of about 23 minutes. A poverty rate of 9.8% and low public transport use reflect a mostly self-sufficient, family-oriented population.
Median Income:
$35,800
Household Income:
$67,900
Family Income:
$77,200
Per Capita Income:
$28,400
Income Male:
$42,300
Income Female:
$35,100
Poverty Rate:
9.8%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$920
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
22.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.6%
Bachelors or More:
21.7%
Education
How are the schools in Cokato, MN?
Families in Cokato benefit from quality public schools such as Cokato Elementary and Dassel-Cokato High School, both offering favorable student-teacher ratios and supportive learning environments. While there are no private schools in town, higher education opportunities are available nearby at Ridgewater College, just 21 miles away. The community’s commitment to education ensures a strong foundation for students of all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Cokato Elementary School
Street:
200 5th St SW
Phone:
320-286-4100
Students:
440
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.0
Name:
Dassel-Cokato High School
Street:
4852 Reardon Ave SW
Phone:
320-286-4100
Students:
625
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2

Colleges
Name:
Ridgewater College
City:
Hutchinson
State:
MN
Distance:
21 miles
Students:
5,500
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Cokato is strong, with 92.3% of residents insured and nearby facilities like Buffalo Hospital providing emergency and general care. There are about 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring reasonable access to medical professionals. The city’s healthcare index of 76.8 highlights affordable and reliable medical services for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Buffalo Hospital
Address:
303 Catlin St, Buffalo, MN 55313
Phone:
(763) 682-1212
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Wright County Health Center
Address:
1400 Madison Ave, Buffalo, MN 55313
Phone:
(763) 684-8644
Type:
Urgent Care
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.3%
Health Care Index:
76.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cokato, MN?
Cokato’s housing market is attractive to buyers, with a median home price of $235,000 and 67.4% owner-occupied residences. Home values have appreciated by 5.2% in the past year, while rental options remain accessible, with average rents for a two-bedroom at $920. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates reflect a stable and growing housing sector.
Median Home Price:
$235,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$920
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Cokato residents are served by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services, located in St. Paul, with convenient online resources and phone support. This office handles licensing, registration, and other DMV services for the city and surrounding areas. Access to DMV services is straightforward, supporting local drivers’ needs.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
445 Minnesota St, Suite 190, St Paul, MN 55101
Phone:
651-297-3298
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.