Living in Bemidji, Minnesota

Bemidji, Minnesota is a small city located in the northwest part of the state near the Canadian border. It is commonly known as the "First City on the Mississippi" because of its location on the Mississippi River.

Bemidji is home to a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hunting, boating, camping, snowmobiling, and skiing. The city has a rich history, featuring many historic sites, museums, and monuments. It also has a vibrant arts and culture scene with numerous galleries and theaters.

Bemidji is also home to a number of universities and colleges, providing educational opportunities for students. The city is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and other attractions, making it a great place to live and visit.

With its beautiful landscape and friendly people, Bemidji is an ideal location for individuals and families who want to explore all that Minnesota has to offer.

1.     Cost of Living

The cost of living in Bemidji, Minnesota is generally quite affordable. The city has a low median home value of $156,100, which is significantly lower than the national median. The median household income is also lower than the national average at $44,914. 

Basic utilities such as electricity, water, and garbage are all relatively inexpensive. Transportation expenses are also low with the average cost of gasoline being just over $2.00 per gallon. Groceries and health care are also relatively affordable.

Overall, Bemidji is a great place for those looking for an affordable place to live without sacrificing their quality of life. The city is home to a variety of amenities and attractions, making it an ideal location for individuals and families.

2.     Safety

Bemidji, Minnesota is known for its safety. Crime rates are generally low and the city is home to two police departments, the Bemidji Police Department and the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office.

The police departments work together to provide a safe and secure environment for residents, visitors, and businesses. Bemidji is also home to a fire department and numerous other emergency service organizations. The city has a surveillance camera system, curfew laws, and other safety initiatives in place.

The city also participates in the Minnesota Crime Prevention Program, which provides resources and training to help citizens be aware of safety issues.

Additionally, the Bemidji area is home to several hospitals and clinics, making medical care easily accessible. Overall, the city of Bemidji is a safe and secure place to live and visit.

3.     Schools

Bemidji, Minnesota is home to several quality schools. Bemidji is served by the Bemidji Area Schools (BAS), which includes two elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school.

All the schools in the BAS system are accredited by the State of Minnesota, meaning they meet or exceed the state’s standards for quality education. The Bemidji High School offers a wide range of courses, including Advanced Placement courses and college credit courses.

Additionally, the district provides a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, theater, and music. The Bemidji area also has several private schools, including a Catholic school, a Lutheran school, and a Montessori school. All of these schools provide quality education for students and offer a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports and music.

Overall, Bemidji is home to a variety of schools that offer quality education and a range of extracurricular activities. The Bemidji Area Schools are accredited and offer a variety of college credit courses, while the private schools provide an alternative educational experience.

4.     Transportation

Bemidji, Minnesota is serviced by a variety of transportation options. The Bemidji Regional Airport is a major hub for air travel, providing flights to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and other regional destinations.

The Bemidji Transit System operates public bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas. The city also has an extensive system of bike paths and trails, making it easy to get around on two wheels. For those who prefer driving, Bemidji is home to several major highways, including U.S. Highway 2 and State Highway 71. These highways connect the city to larger metropolitan areas, such as Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Additionally, there is a local car-rental company that makes it easy to rent a vehicle when needed. Overall, Bemidji, Minnesota provides a variety of transportation options to get around the city and beyond. Air, car, bus, and bike travel are all available, making it easy to get where you need to go.

5.     Weather

Bemidji, Minnesota experiences a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. In the summer months, temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to the mid-80s, with occasional thunderstorms.

Winter temperatures can drop below zero, with snowfall occurring in December, January, and February. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The city of Bemidji averages around 30 inches of snowfall per year, and winter temperatures frequently dip into the double digits below zero.

Despite the cold weather, Bemidji has an abundance of outdoor activities, making it a great place to visit year-round. In the summer months, the area is home to numerous lakes, rivers, and trails, providing plenty of opportunities for fishing, hiking, and camping.

Overall, Bemidji, Minnesota experiences a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. Winters can be cold and snowy, while summers offer mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The city is a great place to visit no matter the season

6.     Culture and Community

Bemidji, Minnesota is home to a vibrant culture and community. The city is home to a diverse population, with a variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds. The community is very supportive and engaged with its citizens, offering many activities and opportunities for people to get involved.

The city is home to several museums, art galleries, and performing arts centers, making it a great place to explore and learn. Bemidji also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Bemidji Bluegrass Festival, the Northern Lights Music Festival, and the Bemidji Arts and Crafts Fair.

Bemidji is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. The community is very welcoming and has many resources for people to get involved. The city is a great place to explore and discover the culture and community of Bemidji.

7.     Healthcare

Bemidji, Minnesota is home to a variety of healthcare options. The city is serviced by the Sanford Health Bemidji Clinic, a comprehensive medical center offering a wide range of services. The clinic provides primary care, emergency care, mental health services, and other medical services. 

Additionally, the city is home to several other medical clinics, including a senior health center and a women’s health center. The city is also home to a number of hospitals and medical centers, including the Sanford Bemidji Medical Center, the Sanford Woodland Medical Center, and the North Country Regional Hospital. These medical centers provide a variety of services, including surgical procedures, laboratory tests, and emergency care.

Overall, Bemidji, Minnesota is home to a variety of healthcare options. The city has a comprehensive medical center as well as several hospitals and medical centers. Residents and visitors of Bemidji have access to quality healthcare services.

8. Job Opportunities

Bemidji, Minnesota is a vibrant city with a variety of job opportunities. Bemidji is home to a diverse range of businesses, from manufacturing and healthcare to retail, hospitality, and technology. The top employers in the city include Sanford Health, Bemidji State University, Wal-Mart, and North Country Food Bank.

Manufacturing is the largest industry in Bemidji, with Sanford Health and Bemidji State University both having a large presence. Sanford Health is one of the largest healthcare providers in the region and employs over 1,000 people in the city. Bemidji State University is a public university and employs over 500 people in Bemidji.

Healthcare is another major industry in Bemidji, with Sanford Health being the largest employer in the city. Sanford Health operates a variety of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies in the area, and employs over 2,000 people in the city. Wal-Mart is also a major employer in the city, with over 1,000 employees.

In addition to these larger employers, Bemidji is home to a variety of small businesses and startups. The city is home to many restaurants, retail stores, and professional services businesses.

Here are the Top 5 Employers in Bemidji:

1. Sanford Health
2. Bemidji State University
3. Wal-Mart
4. North Country Food Bank
5. Beltrami Electric Cooperative