Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Elk River, MN
Considering a move to Elk River, MN? With a welcoming population of 25,835, Elk River pairs small-town charm with easy Twin Cities access. Home values average $338,000, while rents are about $1,420—making it more affordable than many metro suburbs. Enjoy a low violent crime rate (98 per 100k), average commutes of under 30 minutes, and strong public schools. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the mix of four seasons and 56% sunny days, making Elk River a great place to settle in Minnesota.
Demographics - Elk River, MN
Demographics - Elk River, MN
Elk River is home to about 25,835 residents, with a median age of 36.6 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is predominantly White, but features growing diversity and a small percentage of non-English speakers, creating a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere.
Population:
25,835
Density:
840 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.6
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
91.5%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
5.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Elk River, MN?
Living in Elk River offers a moderate cost of living, with median home values at $338,000 and average rents around $1,420 per month. Utilities and other expenses are close to national averages, and Minnesota’s progressive state tax rates should be considered for budgeting.
Median House Value:
$338,000
Gross Rent:
$1,420
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,340
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,770
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$540
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
108
Grocery:
102
Housing:
112
Utilities:
104
Transportation:
99
Health Care:
98
Miscellaneous:
95
Crime
Is Elk River, MN a safe place to live?
Elk River boasts a notably low violent crime rate of 98 incidents per 100,000 people, making it a safe community for families and individuals. Property crime rates are modest, providing residents with peace of mind compared to many metro areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
98
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,210
Crime Index:
1,308
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,020
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 83
Weather
What is the weather like in Elk River, MN year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, from cold winters with lows near 5°F to warm summers reaching up to 83°F. With 56% sunny days and over 31 inches of annual rainfall, Elk River offers a pleasant climate for enjoying outdoor activities year-round.

Winter
Min:
5°F
Max:
23°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Elk River’s neighborhoods are characterized by a strong median household income of $99,900 and a low poverty rate of 4.6%. Most adults hold at least a high school diploma, and the area features low unemployment and average commute times just under 30 minutes.
Median Income:
$43,800
Household Income:
$99,900
Family Income:
$110,600
Per Capita Income:
$40,700
Income Male:
$55,100
Income Female:
$47,300
Poverty Rate:
4.6%
Non English Speakers:
5.1%
Rent:
$1,420
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
29.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
96.8%
Bachelors or More:
33.6%
Education
How are the schools in Elk River, MN?
Elk River offers quality public education through schools like Elk River High School and Salk Middle School, both known for strong academics and robust extracurriculars. Private and parochial options are available locally, while nearby colleges and universities provide convenient opportunities for higher education.

Public Schools
Name:
Elk River High School
Street:
900 School St NW
Phone:
763-241-3434
Students:
1,650
Student Teacher Ratio:
19:1
Name:
Salk Middle School
Street:
11970 Highland Rd
Phone:
763-241-3455
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
18:1

Private Schools
Name:
St. Andrew Catholic School
Street:
428 Irving Ave NW
Phone:
763-441-2216
Students:
240

Colleges
Name:
Anoka-Ramsey Community College
City:
Coon Rapids
State:
MN
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
8,500
Name:
St. Cloud State University
City:
St. Cloud
State:
MN
Distance:
34 miles
Students:
12,600
Healthcare
The city provides convenient access to quality healthcare, including two major hospitals within easy reach and a high health insurance coverage rate of 94.7%. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents, Elk River supports a healthy and well-served community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
M Health Fairview Northland Medical Center
Address:
911 Northland Dr, Princeton, MN 55371
Phone:
(763) 389-1313
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Mercy Hospital – Unity Campus
Address:
550 Osborne Rd NE, Fridley, MN 55432
Phone:
(763) 236-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.7%
Health Care Index:
72.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Elk River, MN?
Elk River’s housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $338,000 and an owner-occupied rate of over 81%. Home values have appreciated by 4.6% in the past year, and vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, making it an appealing choice for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$338,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,420
Owner Occupied Rate:
81.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Elk River residents are served by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services, located in St. Paul. DMV services and information are available online and by phone, ensuring easy access for all licensing and vehicle needs.
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.