Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Park Rapids, MN
Considering a move to Park Rapids, MN? This friendly small town of 4,142 residents offers a relaxed lifestyle with affordable median home prices around $202,000 and average rents at $825. Commute times are short at just 17 minutes, and the local schools provide an intimate learning environment. You'll enjoy four distinct seasons with 59% sunny days, and crime rates are generally low, especially for violent offenses. Park Rapids is a great choice for those seeking a close-knit community, access to outdoor recreation, and a lower cost of living.
Demographics - Park Rapids, MN
Demographics - Park Rapids, MN
Park Rapids is a small, close-knit community with a population of just over 4,100 people. The median age is 45, and the town is predominantly White, with a small but present diversity and about 5% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its balanced gender ratio and moderate population density provide a relaxed, neighborly atmosphere.
Population:
4,142
Density:
1,020 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.7%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.0%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
6.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Park Rapids, MN?
Living in Park Rapids is affordable, with a median home value of $202,000 and average rents around $825 per month. The cost of living index is below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, and Minnesota's state taxes range from 5.35% to 9.85%.
Median House Value:
$202,000
Gross Rent:
$825
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$470
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.0
Grocery:
96.4
Housing:
70.3
Utilities:
93.8
Transportation:
93.5
Health Care:
105.2
Miscellaneous:
98.7
Crime
Is Park Rapids, MN a safe place to live?
Park Rapids enjoys a low violent crime rate, with only 180 incidents per 100,000 residents, offering a sense of safety to newcomers. Property crime is more common, with a 1 in 37 chance, but the overall crime index remains moderate for a town of its size. Residents generally feel secure in their daily lives.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,700
Crime Index:
2,880
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 37
Weather
What is the weather like in Park Rapids, MN year-round?
Park Rapids experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters dipping to 1°F and warm summers reaching up to 80°F. The area sees about 26.6 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine nearly 60% of the year. Residents benefit from a classic Minnesota climate with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
1°F
Max:
20°F
Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
26.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
The median household income in Park Rapids is $49,800, with a poverty rate of 16%, reflecting a mix of economic backgrounds. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, while about 20% hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and the average commute is a quick 17 minutes. The town has a low unemployment rate and a small percentage of public transit users, emphasizing its small-town, car-friendly feel.
Median Income:
$30,200
Household Income:
$49,800
Family Income:
$62,000
Per Capita Income:
$26,400
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$24,600
Poverty Rate:
16.1%
Non English Speakers:
4.7%
Rent:
$825
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
17.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.8%
Bachelors or More:
20.2%
Education
How are the schools in Park Rapids, MN?
Park Rapids offers a supportive educational environment with public schools like Park Rapids Area High School and Century Elementary, featuring manageable student-teacher ratios. St. Peter’s Catholic School provides a private education option, and higher education is accessible nearby at Northwest Technical College and Bemidji State University, both within 40 miles. The community values education, with nearly 90% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Park Rapids Area High School
Street:
401 Huntsinger Ave, Park Rapids, MN 56470
Phone:
218-237-6400
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Name:
Century Elementary School
Street:
501 Helten Ave, Park Rapids, MN 56470
Phone:
218-237-6200
Students:
550
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Private Schools
Name:
St. Peter’s Catholic School
Street:
305 W 5th St, Park Rapids, MN 56470
Phone:
218-732-5141
Students:
70
Colleges
Name:
Northwest Technical College
City:
Bemidji
State:
MN
Distance:
39 miles
Students:
1,200
Name:
Bemidji State University
City:
Bemidji
State:
MN
Distance:
40 miles
Students:
4,500
Healthcare
Park Rapids is served by CHI St. Joseph's Health, offering general and emergency care to the community. About 93% of residents have health insurance, and there are 1.2 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring access to essential medical services. The healthcare index indicates quality care at reasonable local costs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
CHI St. Joseph's Health
Address:
600 Pleasant Ave S, Park Rapids, MN 56470
Phone:
(218) 732-3311
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.1%
Health Care Index:
75.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Park Rapids, MN?
The housing market in Park Rapids features a median home price of $202,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $825, making homeownership and renting accessible. Nearly two-thirds of homes are owner-occupied, and the market remains stable with low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Home values have appreciated modestly over the past year, making it attractive for buyers and investors.
Median Home Price:
$202,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$825
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Residents of Park Rapids are served by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety's Driver and Vehicle Services, with the nearest full-service office located in Bemidji. Services such as licensing and vehicle registration can be accessed in person, by phone, or online. The DMV provides essential support for all motor vehicle needs.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
200 4th St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
Phone:
1-651-297-2126
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.