Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Northern, MN
Considering a move to Northern, MN? This small city of about 2,900 boasts affordable homes (median price: $180,000), low average rent, and a cost of living well below the national average. Residents enjoy a safe community with a violent crime rate of just 88 per 100K, short 20-minute commutes, and access to local schools and healthcare. While winters are cold, Northern offers a friendly, close-knit vibe, affordable living, and easy access to the scenic beauty of northern Minnesota.
Demographics - Northern, MN
Demographics - Northern, MN
Northern, MN is home to around 2,900 residents, with a median age of 45, reflecting a mature and close-knit community. The population is predominantly White, and the area has a balanced gender ratio, low population density, and a small percentage of non-English speakers, offering a welcoming and stable environment.
Population:
2,900
Density:
110 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
91.5%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
6.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Northern, MN?
With a median home value of $180,000 and average rent of $830, Northern provides affordable living well below the national average. Essential costs like groceries and healthcare are lower than many U.S. cities, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$180,000
Gross Rent:
$830
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$98
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,230
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.5
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
72.0
Utilities:
104.5
Transportation:
92.0
Health Care:
94.8
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Northern, MN a safe place to live?
Northern boasts a very low violent crime rate of 88 per 100,000 residents, making it a safe place to live. The risk of property crime is also relatively modest, contributing to the city's secure and peaceful atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
88
Property Crimes Per 100k:
760
Crime Index:
848
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,136
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 132
Weather
What is the weather like in Northern, MN year-round?
Residents of Northern experience classic northern Minnesota seasons, with cold, snowy winters and mild summers peaking around 78°F. The area sees about 26 inches of rain yearly and enjoys sunny days just over half the year, making it ideal for those who appreciate distinct seasonal changes.

Winter
Min:
-4°F
Max:
18°F

Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
58°F

Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
78°F

Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
26.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
51%
Neighbors
Households in Northern typically earn a median income of $56,900, and most residents enjoy short 20-minute commutes. The community has a strong educational background, with over 90% of adults holding at least a high school diploma, fostering a friendly and hardworking local culture.
Median Income:
$30,600
Household Income:
$56,900
Family Income:
$67,500
Per Capita Income:
$29,800
Income Male:
$38,200
Income Female:
$32,500
Poverty Rate:
11.8%
Non English Speakers:
3.1%
Rent:
$830
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
19.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.4%
Bachelors or More:
20.7%
Education
How are the schools in Northern, MN?
Families in Northern have access to quality public and private schools, with favorable student-teacher ratios and a range of educational options. Nearby Mesabi Range College offers higher education opportunities within a short drive, supporting lifelong learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Northern Elementary School
Street:
315 Main Ave
Phone:
218-229-2812
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Mesabi East High School
Street:
601 N 1st St W
Phone:
218-744-1200
Students:
310
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2

Private Schools
Name:
Aurora Christian School
Street:
430 S 3rd Ave
Phone:
218-229-3223
Students:
80

Colleges
Name:
Mesabi Range College
City:
Virginia
State:
MN
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
1,300
Healthcare
Northern residents benefit from local access to critical and general healthcare services, including two nearby hospitals and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 92.5%. The area maintains a good physician-to-population ratio, ensuring quality medical care for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Essentia Health Northern Pines
Address:
521 Main Ave, Aurora, MN 55705
Phone:
(218) 229-2221
Type:
Critical Access
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Fairview Range Medical Center
Address:
750 E 34th St, Hibbing, MN 55746
Phone:
(218) 262-4881
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.5%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Northern, MN?
Northern's housing market is attractive for homeowners, with a median home price of $180,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 78%. Rental options are available at an average price of $830 for a two-bedroom, and the area sees steady, modest home appreciation with low vacancy and foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$180,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$830
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents can handle vehicle and licensing needs through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, located in St. Paul, or online via the state's official DMV website. Local services provide convenient access for routine registration and licensing requirements.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety - Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
445 Minnesota St, Suite 190, 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.