Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Willmar, MN
Considering a move to Willmar, MN? This friendly city of around 21,000 offers affordable living with a median home price of $191,000 and average rent at $950. Residents enjoy short commutes (15 minutes on average), 62% sunny days, and access to local healthcare at Rice Memorial Hospital. While property crime is higher than average, Willmar has a welcoming community and a cost of living well below national averages, making it a practical choice for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Willmar, MN
Demographics - Willmar, MN
Willmar is home to about 21,000 residents, offering a fairly youthful median age of 35.7 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is notably diverse, with nearly one in five residents speaking a non-English language and significant representation across multiple ethnic backgrounds. This cultural richness contributes to a vibrant local atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
21,015
Density:
1,650 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.7
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
19.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
67.1%
Black:
7.2%
Asian:
4.0%
Others:
21.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Willmar, MN?
With a cost of living index of 84.2, Willmar is more affordable than many U.S. cities, especially in housing where the median home value stands at $191,000 and average rent is $950 per month. Utilities and groceries are close to national averages, making Willmar a budget-friendly choice for both renters and homeowners. Residents also benefit from moderate state taxes and reasonable owner costs, particularly for those without a mortgage.
Median House Value:
$191,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,130
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,360
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$470
State Taxes:
Low:
5.35%
|
High:
9.85%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.2
Grocery:
96.1
Housing:
65.4
Utilities:
98.7
Transportation:
91.3
Health Care:
106.8
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Willmar, MN a safe place to live?
Willmar experiences a higher-than-average property crime rate, with residents facing a 1 in 37 chance of property crime and a 1 in 334 risk for violent crime. While these rates are above national averages, many residents find the city’s overall environment manageable with appropriate precautions. Community involvement and awareness help support safety efforts.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
299
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,670
Crime Index:
2,969
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 334
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 37
Weather
What is the weather like in Willmar, MN year-round?
Willmar features four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 2°F, warm summers reaching up to 83°F, and moderate rainfall of about 27.6 inches annually. The city enjoys a pleasant 62% of days with sunshine, adding to its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. Seasonal changes bring variety and opportunities for year-round activities.
Winter
Min:
2°F
Max:
23°F
Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
33°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The typical Willmar household earns around $57,100 annually, with a per capita income of $27,400 and a poverty rate of 15.3%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and commute times are short, averaging just over 15 minutes. The community is diverse and welcoming, with a small percentage relying on public transportation.
Median Income:
$32,300
Household Income:
$57,100
Family Income:
$66,500
Per Capita Income:
$27,400
Income Male:
$36,800
Income Female:
$31,600
Poverty Rate:
15.3%
Non English Speakers:
19.1%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
15.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
80.3%
Bachelors or More:
19.2%
Education
How are the schools in Willmar, MN?
Willmar offers a range of educational options, including public schools like Willmar Senior High and Kennedy Elementary, both known for supportive environments and manageable class sizes. The city is also home to Ridgewater College, serving over 3,000 students, and several private schools for families seeking alternative education paths. This diversity in schooling supports learners of all ages and backgrounds.
Public Schools
Name:
Willmar Senior High
Street:
2701 30th St NE
Phone:
320-231-8233
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Name:
Kennedy Elementary School
Street:
824 7th St SW
Phone:
320-231-7885
Students:
620
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Private Schools
Name:
Community Christian School
Street:
1300 19th Ave SW
Phone:
320-235-0592
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
Ridgewater College
City:
Willmar
State:
MN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,200
Healthcare
Willmar residents have access to Carris Health Rice Memorial Hospital, a full-service facility offering emergency care and general medical services. The area boasts a strong physician-to-resident ratio and a high rate of health insurance coverage at nearly 92%. Quality healthcare is readily accessible for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Carris Health Rice Memorial Hospital
Address:
301 Becker Ave SW, Willmar, MN 56201
Phone:
(320) 235-4543
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
77.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Willmar, MN?
The Willmar housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $191,000 and a healthy owner-occupancy rate of 57.1%. Rental options are readily available, and home values have appreciated by nearly 5% over the past year. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates make it an attractive location for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$191,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Willmar residents handle driver and vehicle services through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, with the nearest DMV office located in Hutchinson. Services include licensing, registration, and online resources for convenience. The DMV’s website provides up-to-date information for new residents and current drivers.
State:
Minnesota
Department:
Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services
Address:
1600 Highway 15 S, Suite 106, Hutchinson, MN 55350
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.