Brainerd
RANK #245 / 996 NAT · #5 / 18 MN · POP 66,558
1YR FORECAST: +1.6%
5YR OUTLOOK: +30%
Crow Wing County, Minnesota, known as "cabin country," is defined by its extensive network of over 400 lakes and 75 rivers, offering more than 2,000 miles of shoreline. Brainerd, the county seat and largest city, serves as a central hub within the Brainerd Lakes Area, a region that includes other notable towns like Baxter, Crosby, Nisswa, and Pequot Lakes. Located in east-central Minnesota, the county is approximately two hours north of the Twin Cities. The community feel across the county ranges from small-town charm to a relaxed, outdoor-oriented lifestyle, with ample opportunities for year-round recreation such as fishing, boating, hiking, and snowmobiling. The Paul Bunyan State Trail, a 115-mile paved rail-trail, runs through the county, further enhancing outdoor access. Life in Crow Wing County often revolves around its natural amenities, attracting both families and retirees. Public schools in the county are generally above average. The economy is driven by diverse industries, with healthcare and social assistance being a significant employer, accounting for one in five jobs. The county has experienced population growth, with a notable increase in residents aged 65 and older. Efforts are underway to address workforce housing needs through initiatives like the Crow Wing County Local Housing Trust Fund, which aims to finance affordable and mixed-income housing projects.
Above national median (4.7x)
Above national median
Above national median
Below-average climate & terrain
Prices detached from rents
Housing is fairly valued at 5.2x relative to local economic output. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Estimated local headcount ranges. Larger employers shown as floor + "+"; smaller employers show exact counts where reported.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
Source: CDC/NCHS vital statistics via County Health Rankings (2020–2022 avg). Rates per 100,000 population. Grade based on homicide rate relative to national average (~6.3). Learn more →
Source: EPA Air Quality System (2021–2023). Grade based on 3-year average median AQI. Learn about AQI →
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
With a Boom Town Index score of 75/100, Crow Wing County sits in the upper half of all 996 ranked counties. Employment is expanding at +1.5%, and median household income stands at $65,975 — indicators that suggest solid fundamentals even if it's not among the fastest-growing counties in MN.
Housing in Crow Wing County is roughly in line with national affordability norms. The median home costs $245,200 and the income-to-home-value ratio sits at 0.27, with rents averaging $888/month. Not a bargain, but not a stretch for most local earners either.
Crow Wing County is growing on multiple fronts. Population is up +1.0% year-over-year while employers added jobs at a +1.5% clip. Home values shifted +1.8% in the past year.
There's a moderate stream of newcomers. About 3.29% of residents moved from another state, which is above average and suggests Crow Wing County has appeal as a relocation destination — though it's not among the highest-inflow counties nationally.