Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Duluth, MN
Considering a move to West Duluth, MN? This friendly lakeside community of about 11,000 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $185,000 and rents near $960. Residents enjoy easy commutes averaging 18.5 minutes, solid local schools, and quick access to top medical centers. While crime rates are a bit higher than the state average, you’ll find a close-knit neighborhood, four-season climate, and scenic Lake Superior nearby—plus a cost of living well below the national average.
Demographics - West Duluth, MN
Demographics - West Duluth, MN
West Duluth is home to about 11,000 residents, predominantly White, with a median age of 38.2 years and a balanced gender ratio. The community features moderate population density and a small but notable percentage of non-English speakers, reflecting a primarily English-speaking environment with some diversity.
Population:
11,000
Density:
1,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
89.2%
Black:
2.3%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
7.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Duluth, MN?
Living in West Duluth is notably affordable, with a cost of living index of 89.7, well below the national average. Median home values are around $185,000 and average rent is approximately $960, making it an attractive option for both homeowners and renters.
Median House Value:
$185,000
Gross Rent:
$960
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$495
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.7
Grocery:
96.5
Housing:
76.8
Utilities:
102.1
Transportation:
94.7
Health Care:
98.2
Miscellaneous:
92.5
Crime
Is West Duluth, MN a safe place to live?
While West Duluth experiences a slightly higher crime rate than other Minnesota communities, the chance of encountering violent crime remains relatively low at 1 in 294. Most reported incidents are property-related, which is typical for similarly sized cities.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
340
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,030
Crime Index:
2,370
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 294
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 49
Weather
What is the weather like in West Duluth, MN year-round?
West Duluth experiences a true four-season climate, with cold winters averaging lows near 4°F and pleasant summers with highs around 77°F. The area gets about 31 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine about 46% of the year, ideal for those who appreciate varied weather.

Winter
Min:
4°F
Max:
21°F

Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
55°F

Summer
Min:
53°F
Max:
77°F

Fall
Min:
33°F
Max:
58°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
46%
Neighbors
The neighborhood is largely middle-income, with a median household income of $51,400 and a poverty rate of 14.3%. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging 18.5 minutes, and over 91% have at least a high school diploma, contributing to a strong sense of community.
Median Income:
$27,500
Household Income:
$51,400
Family Income:
$61,200
Per Capita Income:
$25,900
Income Male:
$38,200
Income Female:
$31,400
Poverty Rate:
14.3%
Non English Speakers:
5.1%
Rent:
$960
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
2.3%
Commute Time:
18.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.7%
Bachelors or More:
23.4%
Education
How are the schools in West Duluth, MN?
West Duluth offers access to quality education, with local public schools like Denfeld High School and Laura MacArthur Elementary, plus private and higher education options nearby. The area is served by colleges such as Lake Superior College and the University of Minnesota Duluth within a short drive, providing diverse learning opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Denfeld High School
Street:
401 N 44th Ave W
Phone:
218-336-8830
Students:
1,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Laura MacArthur Elementary
Street:
720 N Central Ave
Phone:
218-336-8900
Students:
620
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2

Private Schools
Name:
Lakeview Christian Academy
Street:
155 W Central Entrance
Phone:
218-723-8844
Students:
210

Colleges
Name:
Lake Superior College
City:
Duluth
State:
MN
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
5,200
Name:
University of Minnesota Duluth
City:
Duluth
State:
MN
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
10,700
Healthcare
Residents of West Duluth have convenient access to quality healthcare, including major facilities like Essentia Health St. Mary's Medical Center and St. Luke's Hospital nearby. With 2.5 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 94% health insurance coverage, healthcare services are accessible and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Essentia Health St. Mary's Medical Center
Address:
407 E 3rd St, Duluth, MN 55805
Phone:
(218) 786-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Luke's Hospital
Address:
915 E 1st St, Duluth, MN 55805
Phone:
(218) 249-5555
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
78.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Duluth, MN?
West Duluth's housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $185,000 and around two-thirds of homes owner-occupied. The area sees modest appreciation and a low foreclosure rate, making it a practical choice for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$185,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$960
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Vehicle and driver services for West Duluth residents are managed by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, with resources available online or at the St. Paul office. Residents benefit from statewide DMV support for licensing, registration, and related needs.
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.