Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Side Lake, MN
Considering a move to Side Lake, MN? This peaceful community of about 350 residents offers affordable living with median home prices at $210,000 and average rents around $950. Side Lake boasts very low violent crime rates, a high owner-occupied housing rate, and scenic northern Minnesota weather with crisp summers. Commutes are reasonable at under 28 minutes, and local schools and healthcare options are available in nearby towns. If you value tranquility, outdoor recreation, and a close-knit rural feel, Side Lake could be your perfect fit.
Demographics - Side Lake, MN
Demographics - Side Lake, MN
Side Lake is a small, close-knit community of about 350 people, with a median age of 57.2 reflecting its mature population. The area is predominantly White, and most residents speak English at home, making it a quiet and familiar environment for newcomers. Its low population density ensures a peaceful, rural setting.
Population:
350
Density:
40 per sq mi
Median Age:
57.2
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Side Lake, MN?
Side Lake offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value around $210,000 and average rent of $950. The cost of living index is below the national average, making everyday expenses and housing manageable for both families and retirees. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, while healthcare costs are slightly above average.
Median House Value:
$210,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
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:
89.2
Grocery:
96.7
Housing:
75.5
Utilities:
100.3
Transportation:
94.0
Health Care:
108.5
Miscellaneous:
95.2
Crime
Is Side Lake, MN a safe place to live?
Safety is a highlight in Side Lake, with a very low violent crime rate of just 84 incidents per 100,000 people and a rare chance of violent crime—about 1 in 1,190. Property crime is also low compared to national figures, making the area feel secure for residents. This peaceful atmosphere is ideal for those prioritizing safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
84
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,015
Crime Index:
1,099
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,190
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Side Lake, MN year-round?
Side Lake experiences true northern Minnesota seasons, with cold winters averaging 0°F to 22°F and pleasant summers peaking around 78°F. The area gets about 28 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine just over half the year. These conditions are perfect for those who appreciate distinct seasonal changes and outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
0°F
Max:
22°F
Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
58°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
51%
Neighbors
Residents of Side Lake enjoy a modest median household income of $58,000, with low poverty and unemployment rates. Most neighbors are well-educated, with over 92% holding a high school diploma or higher. The community values privacy and outdoor living, with minimal public transport usage and average commute times under half an hour.
Median Income:
$34,200
Household Income:
$58,000
Family Income:
$67,000
Per Capita Income:
$28,500
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$30,000
Poverty Rate:
10.4%
Non English Speakers:
2.6%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
27.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.1%
Bachelors or More:
25.5%
Education
How are the schools in Side Lake, MN?
Families in Side Lake have access to quality education through nearby public and private schools, such as Cherry School and Assumption School. Higher education opportunities are close by, with Hibbing Community College just 18 miles away. Student-to-teacher ratios are favorable, supporting a personalized learning environment for children and young adults.
Public Schools
Name:
Cherry School
Street:
3943 Tamminen Rd, Iron, MN 55751
Phone:
218-258-8991
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Private Schools
Name:
Assumption School
Street:
2310 7th Ave E, Hibbing, MN 55746
Phone:
218-263-3054
Students:
150
Colleges
Name:
Hibbing Community College
City:
Hibbing
State:
MN
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
1,400
Healthcare
Side Lake residents have access to essential healthcare services through local clinics and nearby hospitals, including Fairview Range Medical Center just a short drive away. With 92% of residents insured and an average of 1.5 physicians per 1,000 people, medical needs are well-supported. Healthcare quality is reliable, making it easy for families and seniors to access care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Essentia Health – Northern Pines
Address:
5211 Highway 5, Side Lake, MN 55781
Phone:
(218) 254-5757
Type:
Family Medicine Clinic
Emergency Services:
No
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:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.3%
Health Care Index:
73.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Side Lake, MN?
The housing market in Side Lake is stable and affordable, with median home prices at $210,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $950. Most homes are owner-occupied, reflecting a strong sense of community and long-term residency. Recent home appreciation and low foreclosure rates make it a promising place to invest or settle down.
Median Home Price:
$210,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
87.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Driver and vehicle services for Side Lake residents are provided by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, with online resources and regional offices available. The main office is located in St. Paul, but most transactions can be handled online or at local service centers. Residents benefit from the state's comprehensive DMV support and accessible customer service.
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.