Minnesota / Wadena County

Moving to Wadena, MN

Thinking of making a move to Wadena, MN? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wadena, MN

Considering a move to Wadena, MN? This welcoming community of 4,120 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $147,000 and average rents near $765. Commute times average 16 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (52% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Wadena's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Wadena, MN

Wadena has a population of 4,120 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 41 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 95% White, 1% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 6% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
4,120
Density
1,120 per sq mi
Median Age
41.2
Gender Ratio
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
6.2%

Ethnic Composition

White
95.2%
Black
0.8%
Asian
0.5%
Others
3.5%

Cost Of Living

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

The cost of living in Wadena is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 83.4. Median home values are around $147,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $765. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$147,000
Gross Rent
$765
Monthly Electricity Charges
$110
Auto Insurance
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,090
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$425
State Taxes
Low: 5.35%| High: 9.85%
Cost Of Living Index
83.4
Grocery
94.5
Housing
61.2
Utilities
97.3
Transportation
88.1
Health Care
98.9
Miscellaneous
92.2

Crime

Is Wadena, MN a safe place to live?

Wadena is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 194 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 47. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Minnesota.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
194
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,120
Crime Index
2,314
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 515
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 47

Weather

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

Wadena experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 80°F and cold winters dipping to 0°F. The area receives about 27 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 52% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
0°F
Max
22°F

Summer

Min
54°F
Max
80°F

Spring

Min
32°F
Max
59°F

Fall

Min
34°F
Max
59°F
Average Rainfall Inches
27.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
52%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $44,000 and a low poverty rate of 15.2%. Over 91% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 17% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 16 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$26,300
Household Income
$44,000
Family Income
$56,200
Per Capita Income
$23,100
Income Male
$32,000
Income Female
$26,000
Poverty Rate
15.2%
Non English Speakers
6.2%
Rent
$765
Unemployment Rate
3.9%
Public Transport Usage
0.5%
Commute Time
15.6 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
90.7%
Bachelors or More
17.3%

Education

How are the schools in Wadena, MN?

Wadena offers quality education options, with public schools like Wadena-Deer Creek High School and Wadena-Deer Creek Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Minnesota State Community and Technical College and Central Lakes College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Wadena-Deer Creek High School
Street
600 Colfax Ave SW
Phone
218-632-2300
Students
325
Student Teacher Ratio
16.1
Name
Wadena-Deer Creek Elementary School
Street
600 Colfax Ave SW
Phone
218-632-2364
Students
550
Student Teacher Ratio
15.3

Private Schools

Name
St. Ann's Catholic School
Street
514 1st St SE
Phone
218-632-5791
Students
90

Colleges

Name
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
City
Wadena
State
MN
Distance
0 miles
Students
1,100
Name
Central Lakes College
City
Staples
State
MN
Distance
19 miles
Students
5,500

Healthcare

Wadena residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Tri-County Health Care nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.6 per 1,000 people and 91.2% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Tri-County Health Care
Address
415 Jefferson St N, Wadena, MN 56482
Phone
(218) 631-3510
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage
91.2%
Health Care Index
76.1

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Wadena, MN?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $147,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 63%. The market has seen a 4.4% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.8%. Wadena offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$147,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$765
Owner Occupied Rate
62.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
4.4%
New Construction Rate
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate
0.7%

DMV Information

Residents of Wadena handle vehicle services through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services, conveniently located in St Paul. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Minnesota
Department
Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services
Address
445 Minnesota St, St Paul, MN 55101
Phone
651-297-2126

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.

FAQs About Moving to Wadena, MN

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Wadena, review the core fields on this page: population 4,120, median home value $147,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $765, commute time 15.6 minutes, and sunny days percentage 52%.

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