Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Karlstad, MN
Considering a move to Karlstad, MN? With a cozy population of 710 and affordable median home prices around $120,000, Karlstad offers small-town charm and a low cost of living. Crime rates are notably low, commute times average just 16 minutes, and local schools provide a close-knit educational environment. Residents enjoy crisp Minnesota seasons, quiet neighborhoods, and a welcoming, community-focused lifestyle—perfect for those seeking peace and value in Northwest Minnesota.
Demographics - Karlstad, MN
Demographics - Karlstad, MN
Karlstad is a small, close-knit community with a population of 710 and a median age of 46.5, reflecting a mature and stable environment. The city is predominantly White, with a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, making it an accessible and welcoming place for new residents.
Population:
710
Density:
350 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.5
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.8%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
3.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Karlstad, MN?
Karlstad features a low cost of living, with median home values at $120,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment around $690. Residents benefit from affordable utilities and state taxes, making it an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly living in Minnesota.
Median House Value:
$120,000
Gross Rent:
$690
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$95
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.5
Grocery:
97.0
Housing:
60.2
Utilities:
98.5
Transportation:
85.4
Health Care:
93.8
Miscellaneous:
85.0
Crime
Is Karlstad, MN a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Karlstad are low, with violent crime at just 107 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 970 per 100,000. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is 1 in 935, contributing to the city’s reputation as a safe and peaceful place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
107
Property Crimes Per 100k:
970
Crime Index:
1,077
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 935
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 103
Weather
What is the weather like in Karlstad, MN year-round?
Karlstad experiences classic Minnesota seasons, with cold winters dipping to -4°F and warm summers reaching up to 80°F. The area receives about 22.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 51% of days, offering residents a true four-season climate.

Winter
Min:
-4°F
Max:
16°F

Spring
Min:
33°F
Max:
60°F

Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
22.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
51%
Neighbors
Local households have a median income of $54,200, with most residents commuting just 16.5 minutes to work. The community has a high rate of high school graduates and a modest poverty rate, reflecting a stable and supportive neighborhood atmosphere.
Median Income:
$31,000
Household Income:
$54,200
Family Income:
$61,000
Per Capita Income:
$28,000
Income Male:
$35,000
Income Female:
$25,500
Poverty Rate:
13.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.1%
Rent:
$690
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
16.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.1%
Bachelors or More:
18.2%
Education
How are the schools in Karlstad, MN?
Karlstad offers a supportive educational environment with its local Tri-County School, featuring small class sizes and a low student-teacher ratio. For higher education, Northland Community & Technical College is conveniently located 36 miles away, providing accessible opportunities for continued learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Tri-County School
Street:
303 Pembina Trail
Phone:
218-436-2261
Students:
260
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.7

Colleges
Name:
Northland Community & Technical College
City:
Thief River Falls
State:
MN
Distance:
36 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Healthcare access is strong in Karlstad, with major hospitals nearby such as Kittson Memorial Healthcare Center and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 91.5%. Residents benefit from accessible emergency services and a favorable healthcare index, ensuring reliable medical care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Kittson Memorial Healthcare Center
Address:
1010 S Birch Ave, Hallock, MN 56728
Phone:
(218) 843-3612
Type:
Critical Access Hospital
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Sanford Thief River Falls Medical Center
Address:
3001 Sanford Pkwy, Thief River Falls, MN 56701
Phone:
(218) 683-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
77.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Karlstad, MN?
The housing market in Karlstad is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $120,000 and owner occupancy at nearly 72%. Home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, making it a solid choice for homeowners and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$120,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$690
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Driver and vehicle services for Karlstad residents are handled by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, with comprehensive resources available both online and at their St. Paul office. Residents can easily access licensing, registration, and other DMV services as needed.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services
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.