Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Leech Lake, MN
Considering a move to Leech Lake, MN? With about 1,200 residents, Leech Lake offers a close-knit community surrounded by natural beauty and a strong Native American heritage. The cost of living is low, with median home prices around $162,000 and rents averaging $760, while commute times are a manageable 22 minutes. Crime rates are moderate, and the area boasts easy access to healthcare and educational resources, including local tribal schools and a tribal college. Enjoy four distinct seasons, plenty of sunny days, and a peaceful, small-town lifestyle.
Demographics - Leech Lake, MN
Demographics - Leech Lake, MN
Leech Lake is home to around 1,200 residents, with a youthful median age of 34.2 and a nearly even gender balance. The community has a strong Native American presence, making up about 59% of the population, and a small percentage of non-English speakers, fostering cultural diversity.
Population:
1,200
Density:
40 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.2
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
37.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
3.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Leech Lake, MN?
Leech Lake offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values at $162,000 and average rents around $760. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, and the overall cost of living index is below the national average, making it attractive for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$162,000
Gross Rent:
$760
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
90.1
Grocery:
95.8
Housing:
68.2
Utilities:
102.0
Transportation:
92.5
Health Care:
97.4
Miscellaneous:
95.2
Crime
Is Leech Lake, MN a safe place to live?
Residents experience moderate crime rates, with a 1 in 328 chance of violent crime and property crimes occurring more frequently at 1 in 50. While generally safe, newcomers should stay aware of their surroundings and typical small-town precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
305
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,985
Crime Index:
2,290
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 328
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 50
Weather
What is the weather like in Leech Lake, MN year-round?
Leech Lake features four distinct seasons, with cold winters that dip to 0°F and warm summers reaching up to 80°F. The area receives about 27.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys 58% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
0°F
Max:
23°F

Spring
Min:
31°F
Max:
59°F

Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Neighborhood incomes are modest, with a median household income of $36,200 and a poverty rate of 28.5%. Most residents have a high school diploma, commute about 22 minutes to work, and rely primarily on personal vehicles, reflecting the rural, close-knit character.
Median Income:
$18,500
Household Income:
$36,200
Family Income:
$41,000
Per Capita Income:
$14,800
Income Male:
$24,000
Income Female:
$20,100
Poverty Rate:
28.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$760
Unemployment Rate:
7.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
21.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
84.0%
Bachelors or More:
13.0%
Education
How are the schools in Leech Lake, MN?
Families in Leech Lake have access to local public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and a tribal college within the community. Higher education opportunities are nearby, including Bemidji State University just 17 miles away, supporting lifelong learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig School
Street:
15353 Silver Eagle Dr NW
Phone:
218-665-3000
Students:
220
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5
Name:
Cass Lake-Bena Elementary
Street:
15 4th St NW, Cass Lake
Phone:
218-335-2201
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.9

Colleges
Name:
Leech Lake Tribal College
City:
Cass Lake
State:
MN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
250
Name:
Bemidji State University
City:
Bemidji
State:
MN
Distance:
17 miles
Students:
5,100
Healthcare
Locals benefit from access to major healthcare facilities, including Cass Lake Indian Health Service Hospital and Sanford Bemidji Medical Center, both offering emergency services. Healthcare coverage is high at nearly 90%, with a physician ratio that supports community needs.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Cass Lake Indian Health Service Hospital
Address:
425 7th St NW, Cass Lake, MN 56633
Phone:
(218) 335-3200
Type:
General & Outpatient
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Sanford Bemidji Medical Center
Address:
1300 Anne St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
Phone:
(218) 751-5430
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.2%
Health Care Index:
68.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Leech Lake, MN?
The housing market is accessible, with median home prices at $162,000 and a 53% owner-occupancy rate. Rental vacancies are moderate at 8.2%, and home values have seen steady appreciation, making it a stable environment for homeowners and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$162,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$760
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle and licensing needs through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services, located in St. Paul. The state DMV offers comprehensive resources both in person and online, ensuring convenient access to essential services.
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.