Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Downer, MN
Considering a move to Downer, MN? This small rural community of around 200 residents offers affordable living with a median home price of $235,000 and average rents near $950. Downer boasts very low crime rates, quick commutes averaging 25 minutes, and a peaceful setting with 54% sunny days each year. While amenities are limited locally, nearby towns offer good schools and healthcare, making Downer a solid choice for those seeking a quiet, friendly Midwest lifestyle.
Demographics - Downer, MN
Demographics - Downer, MN
Downer, MN is a close-knit rural community with about 200 residents, a median age of 44, and a population density of 90 people per square mile. The area is predominantly White, with a small percentage of non-English speakers, and maintains a balanced gender ratio. This demographic profile suggests a stable, family-oriented environment ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
200
Density:
90 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.1
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
4.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Downer, MN?
Downer offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $235,000 and average rents of $950 per month. Essential expenses like utilities and transportation remain below national averages, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious families. State tax rates range from 5.35% to 9.85%, and overall living costs are about 7% lower than the U.S. average.
Median House Value:
$235,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,185
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$445
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
93.4
Grocery:
97.5
Housing:
82.0
Utilities:
92.0
Transportation:
98.7
Health Care:
105.6
Miscellaneous:
87.4
Crime
Is Downer, MN a safe place to live?
Safety is a highlight in Downer, where the chance of being a victim of violent crime is just 1 in 1,430, and property crime rates are also low compared to national figures. With a crime index of 1,020 and only 70 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, the community offers a secure, peaceful environment. Residents can enjoy a sense of security in their daily lives.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
70
Property Crimes Per 100k:
950
Crime Index:
1,020
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,430
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 105
Weather
What is the weather like in Downer, MN year-round?
Downer experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows near 0°F, warm summers reaching up to 83°F, and moderate rainfall of about 23 inches annually. The area enjoys 54% sunny days each year, providing a balance of sunshine and seasonal variety. This climate supports outdoor activities during the milder months while offering a classic Midwest winter experience.

Winter
Min:
0°F
Max:
22°F

Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
23.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Residents of Downer benefit from a median household income around $71,000 and a relatively low poverty rate of 7.8%. The community boasts high educational attainment, with nearly 94% of adults holding at least a high school diploma, and an average commute time of about 25 minutes. Neighboring areas offer employment opportunities and support a stable, middle-income lifestyle.
Median Income:
$42,000
Household Income:
$71,000
Family Income:
$82,500
Per Capita Income:
$34,500
Income Male:
$46,000
Income Female:
$36,500
Poverty Rate:
7.8%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
25.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.8%
Bachelors or More:
27.2%
Education
How are the schools in Downer, MN?
Families in Downer have access to public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, and higher education options are located nearby in Moorhead, just over 20 miles away. Local schools are well-rated and support small class sizes, contributing to a positive learning environment. The region is well-suited for students of all ages seeking quality educational opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Barnesville High School
Street:
302 3rd St SE
Phone:
218-354-2228
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Barnesville Elementary School
Street:
310 5th St SE
Phone:
218-354-2300
Students:
385
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2

Colleges
Name:
Minnesota State University Moorhead
City:
Moorhead
State:
MN
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
4,700
Name:
Concordia College
City:
Moorhead
State:
MN
Distance:
23 miles
Students:
1,900
Healthcare
Downer residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals and emergency services located a short drive away in Fargo. The area provides about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people, and over 93% of residents are covered by health insurance. Healthcare services are reliable, making it easy for families to find medical support when needed.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Essentia Health - Fargo
Address:
3000 32nd Ave S, Fargo, ND 58103
Phone:
(701) 364-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Sanford Medical Center Fargo
Address:
5225 23rd Ave S, Fargo, ND 58104
Phone:
(701) 234-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.6%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Downer, MN?
The housing market in Downer is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $235,000 and owner-occupancy rates above 85%. Rental options are available, and the area has a low foreclosure rate of just 0.3%, reflecting a healthy local real estate market. Home values have appreciated over 6% in the past year, indicating steady growth.
Median Home Price:
$235,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
85.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents of Downer handle vehicle and licensing needs through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety's Driver and Vehicle Services Division, headquartered in St. Paul. Services are accessible online or via phone, making it convenient to manage registrations and renewals. The DMV provides essential resources for local drivers.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety - Driver and Vehicle Services Division
Address:
445 Minnesota St, 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.