Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Grand Rapids, MN
Considering a move to Grand Rapids, MN? With a friendly population of just over 11,000, this welcoming city offers affordable living—median homes cost around $198,000 and average rents are $900. Residents enjoy a short 16-minute average commute, low violent crime rates, and access to solid public schools. Grand Rapids features four distinct seasons, great outdoor access, and a close-knit community atmosphere—ideal for those seeking a relaxed Minnesota lifestyle.
Demographics - Grand Rapids, MN
Demographics - Grand Rapids, MN
Grand Rapids, MN is home to about 11,100 residents, with a median age of 44 and a population density of 850 people per square mile. The community is predominantly White, with a small but present mix of other backgrounds, and about 4% of residents speak a language other than English at home. This city offers a balanced gender ratio and a notably mature population, appealing to those seeking a quieter pace of life.
Population:
11,126
Density:
850 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.2%
Black:
0.6%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
5.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Grand Rapids, MN?
Living in Grand Rapids is affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average at 88.5. Median home values are around $198,000, and typical rent is about $900 per month, while everyday expenses like utilities and groceries remain moderate. Residents benefit from relatively low housing costs, making it an attractive option for families and retirees alike.
Median House Value:
$198,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,260
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.5
Grocery:
97.0
Housing:
75.0
Utilities:
92.5
Transportation:
98.0
Health Care:
105.0
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Grand Rapids, MN a safe place to live?
Grand Rapids offers a low violent crime rate, with residents facing a 1 in 592 chance of being affected, well below many national averages. Property crime is higher, with a 1 in 45 chance, but overall, the city maintains a safe and welcoming atmosphere. Families and individuals can feel secure enjoying the community’s amenities and outdoor spaces.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
169
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,240
Crime Index:
2,409
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 592
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Grand Rapids, MN year-round?
The city experiences all four seasons, with cold winters that can see lows around 0°F and pleasant summers averaging up to 78°F. Grand Rapids receives about 27 inches of rain annually and enjoys sunshine just over half the year. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities year-round, from winter sports to summer lake outings.
Winter
Min:
0°F
Max:
21°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
59°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
30°F
Max:
56°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
51%
Neighbors
Residents of Grand Rapids enjoy a close-knit community with a median household income of $53,900 and a low unemployment rate of 4.1%. The average commute is just over 15 minutes, and most neighbors have at least a high school education. The modest poverty rate and affordable rent contribute to a comfortable local lifestyle.
Median Income:
$33,700
Household Income:
$53,900
Family Income:
$71,200
Per Capita Income:
$29,600
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$31,900
Poverty Rate:
12.6%
Non English Speakers:
4.3%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
15.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.1%
Bachelors or More:
27.2%
Education
How are the schools in Grand Rapids, MN?
Grand Rapids offers a strong educational environment with multiple public schools, including Grand Rapids Senior High and Robert J. Elkington Middle School, serving over 1,900 students combined. Private school options and Itasca Community College provide additional choices for families and adult learners. The majority of residents have completed high school, and about a quarter hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Public Schools
Name:
Grand Rapids Senior High
Street:
800 Conifer Dr
Phone:
218-327-5760
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Robert J. Elkington Middle School
Street:
1000 NE 8th Ave
Phone:
218-327-5800
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Private Schools
Name:
St. Joseph's Catholic School
Street:
100 NE 9th Ave
Phone:
218-326-6232
Students:
160
Colleges
Name:
Itasca Community College
City:
Grand Rapids
State:
MN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Grand Rapids is served by Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital, providing general and emergency care within city limits. The area offers good access to physicians, with nearly 95% of residents covered by health insurance. Quality healthcare is readily available, supporting the well-being of families and seniors alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital
Address:
1601 Golf Course Rd, Grand Rapids, MN 55744
Phone:
(218) 326-3401
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.8%
Health Care Index:
78.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Grand Rapids, MN?
Grand Rapids features an accessible housing market, with median home prices at $198,000 and typical rents for a two-bedroom apartment at $900. Around two-thirds of residents own their homes, and the area has seen a healthy 6.2% home appreciation rate over the past year. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates make it a stable environment for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$198,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Driver and vehicle services in Grand Rapids are managed by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, conveniently located on N Pokegama Ave. Residents can access all standard DMV services locally, including licensing and vehicle registration. More information and online resources are available through the state’s official website.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
540 N Pokegama Ave, Grand Rapids, MN 55744
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.