Demographics

As of 2023, Chisago County, MN has a population of approximately 58,400. The median age is 41.3 years, with 49.7% male and 50.3% female residents. The racial composition is predominantly White (92.3%), followed by Hispanic or Latino (2.6%), Two or More Races (2.5%), Asian (0.7%), Black or African American (0.7%), and Native American (1.0%).

Elections

Chisago County, MN, had approximately 34,000 registered voters in 2022. Residents vote in federal, state, county, and local elections, including primaries and general elections. In the 2020 presidential election, 61% voted Republican, 36% Democrat. There are 16 polling locations across the county. Key issues include property taxes and school funding. Elections are administered by the Chisago County Auditor’s office, ensuring compliance and transparency. Both Republican and Democratic parties are active locally, alongside some independent candidates. Voter turnout in recent years has exceeded 80% during presidential elections, reflecting high civic engagement in the county.

Education, Employment and Housing

Chisago County, MN, has 8 public high schools and several private institutions, with an 88% high school graduation rate. About 23% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools average a GreatSchools rating of 6/10, emphasizing STEM and career-technical education. Adult education is offered through Pine Technical & Community College and community programs. School safety reports show below-average incident rates, and many schools have security measures in place. Enrichment programs include Advanced Placement, vocational training, and special education services, supporting a well-rounded educational environment for students and adults alike.

As of 2023, Chisago County, MN reported an unemployment rate of approximately 3.3%. Major employment sectors include health care and social assistance (19%), manufacturing (14%), retail trade (12%), and education services (10%). Most residents work in management, sales, office, and production roles. About 81% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 32 minutes; nearly 60% work outside the county, mainly in the Twin Cities metro area. In total, the county’s labor force is about 29,000, with steady growth in service-oriented professions.

Chisago County, MN, has a homeownership rate of about 85%, with median home values around $315,000 in 2023, reflecting steady annual increases. Median rent is approximately $1,250 per month. The housing stock features primarily single-family homes, with some townhouses and limited apartments. Popular neighborhoods include Lindstrom and North Branch, offering family-oriented communities and lakefront properties. Property taxes average 1.1% of assessed value, so homeowners typically pay $3,400 annually. The market remains competitive, driven by demand for suburban and rural living near the Twin Cities.

County Crime & Safety

Chisago County, MN, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2023, the county reported about 950 total crimes, including 74 violent crimes (such as 1 homicide, 15 sexual assaults, and 58 aggravated assaults) and 876 property crimes (650 thefts, 37 burglaries, and 15 motor vehicle thefts). The crime rate stands at approximately 17 crimes per 1,000 residents, with most incidents being property-related. Local law enforcement encourages prompt reporting, which has contributed to a 6% decrease in overall crime since 2021.