Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Northfield, MN
Thinking of moving to Northfield, MN? With a population of just over 20,000, Northfield offers a vibrant college-town feel, affordable median home prices around $325,000, and average rents near $1,200. Crime rates are low, with only 92 violent crimes per 100K, and commutes are quick at just under 19 minutes. Northfield boasts top-rated schools, two renowned colleges, and a friendly community, all while enjoying four distinct seasons and over 60% sunny days each year.
Demographics - Northfield, MN
Demographics - Northfield, MN
Northfield is home to about 20,790 residents, with a youthful median age of 28.4 thanks in part to its two colleges. The community is predominantly White (nearly 85%), and around 8% of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting some cultural diversity. The city's moderate population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to its welcoming, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
20,790
Density:
2,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
28.4
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
84.9%
Black:
2.4%
Asian:
4.8%
Others:
7.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Northfield, MN?
Northfield offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $325,000 and average rents around $1,200 per month. The cost of living index sits just below the national average, making it an attractive option for both renters and homeowners. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, and state income tax rates range from about 5.35% to 9.85%.
Median House Value:
$325,000
Gross Rent:
$1,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,430
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$560
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.4
Grocery:
98.0
Housing:
97.5
Utilities:
97.8
Transportation:
99.0
Health Care:
101.2
Miscellaneous:
96.5
Crime
Is Northfield, MN a safe place to live?
Northfield is considered a safe city, reporting only 92 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 1,087 chance of experiencing such incidents. Property crime rates are also low, helping residents feel secure in their neighborhoods. These low crime levels make Northfield especially appealing for families and students.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
92
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,070
Crime Index:
1,162
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,087
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 93
Weather
What is the weather like in Northfield, MN year-round?
Residents of Northfield experience four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows near 6°F and warm summers reaching up to 83°F. The city enjoys around 62% sunny days annually and receives about 32 inches of rainfall each year. Seasonal changes bring vibrant falls and comfortable springs, making outdoor activities popular throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
6°F
Max:
27°F
Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Northfield boasts a strong sense of community, with a household income around $74,200 and a low unemployment rate of 2.9%. Nearly 95% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and almost half hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The area maintains a modest poverty rate of 11.2% and short average commutes of under 19 minutes.
Median Income:
$37,500
Household Income:
$74,200
Family Income:
$96,100
Per Capita Income:
$32,900
Income Male:
$47,300
Income Female:
$39,800
Poverty Rate:
11.2%
Non English Speakers:
8.3%
Rent:
$1,200
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
18.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.8%
Bachelors or More:
49.7%
Education
How are the schools in Northfield, MN?
Northfield is known for excellent educational opportunities, featuring public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and two renowned colleges—Carleton College and St. Olaf College—right in town. Over 94% of residents have completed high school, and nearly half have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The city also offers private school options for families seeking additional choices.
Public Schools
Name:
Northfield High School
Street:
1400 Division St S
Phone:
507-663-0630
Students:
1,240
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.1
Name:
Bridgewater Elementary School
Street:
401 Jefferson Pkwy
Phone:
507-645-3500
Students:
560
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Private Schools
Name:
St. Dominic School
Street:
216 Spring St N
Phone:
507-645-8136
Students:
195
Colleges
Name:
Carleton College
City:
Northfield
State:
MN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,000
Name:
St. Olaf College
City:
Northfield
State:
MN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Northfield provides quality healthcare services, anchored by Northfield Hospital & Clinics, a general and surgical facility with emergency care. The city has a high health insurance coverage rate of 95% and 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents. Healthcare is easily accessible, making it convenient for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Northfield Hospital & Clinics
Address:
2000 North Ave, Northfield, MN 55057
Phone:
(507) 646-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.1%
Health Care Index:
77.6
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Northfield, MN?
The housing market in Northfield is stable, with a median home price of $325,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $1,200. Most homes are owner-occupied, and the rental vacancy rate is just 4%, indicating strong demand. Home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, reflecting a healthy real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$325,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Driver and vehicle services for Northfield residents are managed by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, with the main office located in St. Paul. Services such as licensing and registration are available both online and by phone. The DMV provides accessible support and resources for all Minnesota drivers.
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.