What Should I Know Before Moving to Ottertail?

Check the cost of living, housing, traffic, and public transit in Ottertail. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, so pick one that fits your lifestyle. Be prepared for Ottertail climate and weather.

How Much Do Movers Charge in Ottertail?

Moving within Ottertail usually costs between $300 and $1,500. Moving long distances can cost anywhere from $2,000 to more than $5,000. The price may go up if you need extra services like packing or storage. Fill out Movers.com quote form to compare the quotes easily.

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Move to Ottertail?

While moves happen year-round, spring and fall are often more comfortable in Ottertail. Booking outside of peak summer or winter seasons can save money and make scheduling easier.

Do Moving Companies in Ottertail Offer Packing and Unpacking Services?

Yes! Majority of moving companies in Ottertail offer full service moving, which means they will help you pack, unpack, and arrange your belongings.

When You Move from Ottertail, How Far in Advance Should I Schedule My Move?

You should plan your move from Ottertail at least 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially if you're moving during the busy season (summer). You can get better availability, prices, and flexibility with your moving date if you book early. If you book at the last minute, you may have fewer choices or pay more.

Moving to Ottertail, MN | Find Trusted Movers & Services

Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ottertail, MN

Considering a move to Ottertail, MN? This welcoming lakes-area city has a population of just 629, offering a peaceful, small-town vibe with affordable living—median home prices are around $257,000 and average rents about $930. Residents enjoy low violent crime rates, a short average commute of 22 minutes, and plenty of sunny days. The area is known for its scenic lakes, outdoor recreation, and solid local schools, making Ottertail a great fit for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle.

Demographics - Ottertail, MN

Ottertail is a close-knit community of 629 residents, with a predominantly White population and a median age of 54, reflecting its appeal to retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a small percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a friendly, familiar atmosphere.

Population:

629

Density:

110 per sq mi

Median Age:

54.2

Gender Ratio:

101 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

2.7%

Ethnic Composition

White:

97.1%

Black:

0.3%

Asian:

0.2%

Others:

2.4%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Ottertail, MN?

Living in Ottertail is affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average and median home values around $257,000. Residents benefit from reasonable housing, utility, and grocery costs, making it an attractive choice for those seeking value in a small-town setting.

Median House Value:

$257,000

Gross Rent:

$930

Monthly Electricity Charges:

$110

Auto Insurance:

$940

House Owner Cost With Mortgage:

$1,350

House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:

$480

State Taxes:

Low:

5.35%

High:

9.85%

Cost Of Living Index:

89.5

Grocery:

95.6

Housing:

83.1

Utilities:

98.2

Transportation:

92.3

Health Care:

97.7

Miscellaneous:

94.2

Crime

Is Ottertail, MN a safe place to live?

Ottertail boasts a low crime rate, with violent crimes occurring at just 57 per 100,000 residents and property crimes also well below national averages. This creates a safe environment ideal for families and those seeking peace of mind.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

Property Crimes Per 100k:

1,080

Crime Index:

1,137

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 1,750

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 93

Weather

What is the weather like in Ottertail, MN year-round?

Residents experience all four seasons, with warm summers reaching 80°F, cold winters dipping to 0°F, and a moderate annual rainfall of about 26.5 inches. The city enjoys a generous 57% of sunny days, perfect for enjoying Ottertail’s lakes and outdoor activities.

Winter

Min:

0°F

Max:

24°F

Spring

Min:

32°F

Max:

62°F

Summer

Min:

55°F

Max:

80°F

Fall

Min:

30°F

Max:

60°F

Average Rainfall Inches:

26.5 inches

Sunny Days Percentage:

57%

Neighbors

Ottertail’s households have a median income of $63,500, and the area maintains a low unemployment rate of 3.4%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and average commute times are under 22 minutes, offering a comfortable lifestyle with easy access to work and amenities.

Median Income:

$34,800

Household Income:

$63,500

Family Income:

$74,000

Per Capita Income:

$34,200

Income Male:

$41,700

Income Female:

$30,800

Poverty Rate:

8.5%

Non English Speakers:

2.7%

Rent:

$930

Unemployment Rate:

3.4%

Public Transport Usage:

0.4%

Commute Time:

21.8 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

92.1%

Bachelors or More:

22.5%

Education

How are the schools in Ottertail, MN?

Ottertail families benefit from access to quality schools such as Perham High School and Prairie Wind Middle School, both offering favorable student-teacher ratios. The area also features private education options and is within commuting distance of Minnesota State Community & Technical College in Wadena.

Public Schools

Name:

Perham High School

Street:

800 Coney St W, Perham, MN 56573

Phone:

218-346-6500

Students:

500

Student Teacher Ratio:

15.9

Name:

Prairie Wind Middle School

Street:

480 Coney St N, Perham, MN 56573

Phone:

218-346-6550

Students:

450

Student Teacher Ratio:

15.4

Private Schools

Name:

St. Henry's Area School

Street:

253 2nd Ave SW, Perham, MN 56573

Phone:

218-346-6190

Students:

100

Colleges

Name:

Minnesota State Community & Technical College - Wadena

City:

Wadena

State:

Distance:

27 miles

Students:

1,800

Healthcare

Residents have access to quality healthcare facilities nearby, including Perham Health and Sanford Health Detroit Lakes Medical Center, both offering emergency services. With 94.7% of residents insured and a favorable physician-to-population ratio, medical care is both accessible and reliable.

Major Hospitals

Name:

Perham Health

Address:

1000 Coney St W, Perham, MN 56573

Phone:

(218) 346-4500

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Name:

Sanford Health Detroit Lakes Medical Center

Address:

1027 Washington Ave, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501

Phone:

(218) 846-2000

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Physicians Per 1000:

1.8

Health Insurance Coverage:

94.7%

Health Care Index:

78.2

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Ottertail, MN?

The housing market in Ottertail is stable, featuring a median home price of $257,000 and an owner-occupied rate of over 80%. With steady home appreciation and low foreclosure rates, it’s an appealing market for buyers seeking long-term value.

Median Home Price:

$257,000

Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:

$930

Owner Occupied Rate:

80.3%

Rental Vacancy Rate:

8.9%

Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):

4.2%

New Construction Rate:

0.8%

Foreclosure Rate:

0.2%

DMV Information

Ottertail residents handle driving and vehicle needs through the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services, located in St. Paul, with convenient online and phone support. The DMV provides comprehensive services for licenses, registrations, and more.

State:

Minnesota

Department:

Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services

Address:

445 Minnesota St, Suite 190, St. Paul, MN 55101

Phone:

651-297-3298

Website:

https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs

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.