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    OverviewWeatherHousingDemographicsJobsPoliticsCrimeTransportationEducationOutdoorsCulture
    1. Minnesota
    2. McLeod County

    Major cities or towns:

    Hutchinson
    Glencoe
    Winsted
    McLeod County, Minnesota is a rural county located in the central part of the state. The geography is characterized by gently rolling hills, fertile farmland, and numerous lakes and rivers. The climate is continental, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The population is around 36,000, with the largest city being Glencoe. The economy is primarily agricultural, with crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat being major industries. The cost of living is lower than the national average, and the housing market offers affordable single-family homes. The public school system is well-regarded, with several high-performing districts, but there are limited options for higher education within the county. Healthcare is accessible, with a regional hospital and several clinics. Cultural attractions are limited, but the area offers ample outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and hiking. The transportation infrastructure is adequate, with a network of state and county roads, but public transit options are limited. Crime rates are generally low, and the community is known for its small-town, family-oriented atmosphere. Overall, McLeod County provides a peaceful, rural lifestyle for those seeking an affordable cost of living and access to natural amenities, though the lack of economic and cultural diversity may be a drawback for some.

    Demographics

    Population

    36K

    Ethnicity %

    White
    91
    Black
    1
    Asian
    1
    Hispanic
    6

    Median Age

    40.7

    Density

    4 of 10

    75 / Mile²

    Avg Family Size

    3.0

    Religious

    70%

    Foreign Born

    9%

    Veterans

    6.1%

    Adult Smokers

    19%

    Adult Obesity

    37%

    Uninsured

    6%

    Excessive Drinking

    21%

    Poverty Rate

    9.3%

    Weather

    Sunlight

    4.5 hours winter dailyPartly sunny

    Summer average temp

    89°F

    Winter max temp

    26°F

    Precipitation

    28 in.

    Snowfall (inches)

    41.9 (high)

    Drought risk

    Very Low

    Earthquake risk

    Very Low

    Wildfire risk

    Very Low

    Tornado risk

    Low

    Hurricane risk

    Negligible

    Crime

    Rank: 2.1 of 10

    (crimes per 1,000 people yearly)

    Violent

    2 (0.9)

    Property

    4 (17)

    Assault

    1 (0.6)

    Larceny (theft)

    4 (14)

    Robbery

    1 (0.0)

    Burglary

    2 (2.5)

    Rape

    4 (0.34)

    Auto Theft

    2 (0.6)

    Murder

    1 (0.00)

    Arson

    2 (0.06)

    Driving deaths involving alcohol

    57%

    Politics and Law

    State politics

    Blue (Democrat)

    Abortion laws

    Legal at any stage

    Marijuana laws

    Legal for medical use

    Gun Laws

    Permit required for open and concealed carry

    Democrat

    31%

    Republican

    67%

    State Tax Burden

    9.99%

    Cigarette Tax

    $3.04

    Jobs

    Income (per capita)

    $56,689

    Unemployment

    3.5%

    Employment

    65%

    Hours worked

    41.8

    Outdoors

    Natural Amenities

    2.5 / 10

    Water Area

    2.72%

    Near park?

    63%

    Beaches

    Not near the coast

    Mountains

    Not near mountains

    Tree Area

    3%

    Housing

    Home Ownership

    73%

    Median Home Price

    $278K

    Average Rent

    $781

    Internet over 25mbps

    60%

    Transportation

    Walkability

    27

    Cycling

    30

    Public Transit

    unknown

    Major Airport

    <2 hours

    Average Commute Time

    23

    Education

    K-12 Test Scores

    10 of 10  

    (avg: 0.30)

    College graduates

    18%

    Culture

    Arts scene

    unknown

    Food awards per 100k

    unknown