Fergus Falls
RANK #118 / 996 NAT · #1 / 18 MN · POP 60,072
1YR FORECAST: +3.5%
5YR OUTLOOK: +35%
Otter Tail County, Minnesota, distinguishes itself with over 1,000 lakes, more than any other county in the United States, defining its landscape and lifestyle. Located in west-central Minnesota, roughly three hours northwest of the Twin Cities and 45 minutes from Fargo, North Dakota, the area offers a relaxed, lakeside community feel. Towns like Fergus Falls, Pelican Rapids, and Battle Lake serve as hubs for residents and visitors. Commuting within the county is generally efficient, with an average travel time of around 20.7 minutes, and public transit, Otter Express, offers door-to-door service in several communities. The county's natural scenery includes rolling hills, prairies, and forests, with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation in its numerous lakes, two state parks—Glendalough and Maplewood—and extensive trail systems.
Life in Otter Tail County is characterized by a strong sense of community and a focus on outdoor activities. The public school system is rated above average, with several top-ranked elementary and high schools. The economy is supported by sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and retail trade. Recent economic developments include initiatives to address housing shortages and expand childcare options, reflecting efforts to attract new residents and support families. The county also focuses on business development and retention, offering resources for start-up and expanding businesses, including those in housing development and agriculture.
Above national median (4.7x)
Below national median
Below-average climate & terrain
Speculative pricing
Housing is fairly valued at 5.6x 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 →
| PROJECT | AMOUNT | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
|
The Big Build Housing Initiative
Otter Tail County Community Development Agency (CDA)
|
$94M | Ongoing |
|
Hoot Lake Battery Storage Project
Otter Tail Corporation (Otter Tail Power Company)
|
$75M | Planned |
|
Hoot Lake Solar
Otter Tail Power Company
|
$62M | Operating |
|
Solway Solar
Otter Tail Power Company
|
$50M | Under Construction |
|
2025 Road and Bridge Construction Projects
Otter Tail County
|
$25M | Under Construction |
Source: public records, news, corporate announcements. Amounts are estimates where noted.
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Otter Tail County ranks #118 out of 996 U.S. counties on the Boom Town Index with a score of 88/100, putting it in the top tier nationally. Job growth of +0.9% and a median household income of $67,990 point to a county with active economic momentum.
Housing in Otter Tail County is roughly in line with national affordability norms. The median home costs $234,200 and the income-to-home-value ratio sits at 0.29, with rents averaging $769/month. Not a bargain, but not a stretch for most local earners either.
Otter Tail County's population is growing — up +0.6% YoY — while the job market is roughly flat (employment change of +0.9%). Home values shifted +4.4% over the past year. In-migration is outpacing local hiring, which often points to remote workers or retirees driving the headcount.
There's a moderate stream of newcomers. About 2.87% of residents moved from another state, which is above average and suggests Otter Tail County has appeal as a relocation destination — though it's not among the highest-inflow counties nationally.