Big Lake, MN
Population 12,115 · Minnesota
About Big Lake, MN
Big Lake is a mid-sized city located in Minnesota with a population of 12,115 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $113,333 per year, which is 51% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.7 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Big Lake features a median home value of $291,700, which is 19% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Big Lake in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,417, 22% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,075 total housing units, 87% are owner-occupied (3,440 units) and 13% are renter-occupied (530 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Big Lake shows an unemployment rate of 3.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 5.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Big Lake have an average one-way commute time of 32.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
26.9% of Big Lake residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 4.1% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.7% Asian residents, with 3.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Big Lake, MN
Compared to national averages, Big Lake has a median household income of $113,333 (51% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $291,700, which is 19% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,417 is 22% above the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Big Lake's income is 53% above the state average of $74,221, and home values are 43% above the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Big Lake, MN?
Big Lake offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $113,333, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.5%, and a low poverty rate of 5.1%, better than the national average.
Big Lake has a population of 12,115 with a median age of 31.7 years. Compare Big Lake with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Big Lake
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Peter | 12,085 | $65,042 | $238,700 | Compare |
| East Bethel | 11,995 | $114,583 | $343,200 | Compare |
| Lake Elmo | 12,504 | $153,407 | $588,900 | Compare |
| North St. Paul | 12,511 | $81,641 | $286,600 | Compare |
| Cloquet | 12,582 | $63,854 | $200,100 | Compare |
| Mendota Heights | 11,644 | $132,935 | $504,100 | Compare |
| Vadnais Heights | 12,789 | $91,946 | $334,500 | Compare |
| Mounds View | 12,992 | $90,148 | $294,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Minnesota
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Big Lake With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Big Lake
What is the population of Big Lake, MN?
The population of Big Lake, MN is 12,115 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Minnesota.
What is the median household income in Big Lake?
The median household income in Big Lake, MN is $113,333 per year, which is 51% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Big Lake?
The median home value in Big Lake, MN is $291,700, which is 19% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Big Lake?
The median monthly rent in Big Lake, MN is $1,417, which is 22% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Big Lake?
The unemployment rate in Big Lake, MN is 3.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Big Lake, MN a good place to live?
Big Lake offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 12,115 and a median age of 31.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Big Lake, MN?
26.9% of residents in Big Lake aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Big Lake?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Big Lake, MN: median home value is $291,700 (19% above national), median rent is $1,417/month, and median household income is $113,333. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Big Lake?
The poverty rate in Big Lake, MN is 5.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Big Lake, MN?
Big Lake's population is 4.1% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.7% Asian, and 3.1% two or more races. 3.7% of residents are foreign-born.