ExoRoadExoRoadExoRoad
CountiesStatesHidden GemsCompareMap

Footer

Problem?  Give feedback

Features

  • Explore counties
  • Explore states
  • Compare areas
  • Heatmaps
  • Hidden Gems

More

  • About
  • Blog
  • Data Sources
  • Premium Pricing
Contact: eric@exoroad.com
Problem?  Give feedback

Subscribe to our newsletter

For updates and notifications on new features

DiscordDiscord Twitter

© 2025 ExoRoad, Inc. All rights reserved.

    OverviewWeatherHousingDemographicsJobsPoliticsCrimeTransportationEducationOutdoorsCulture
    1. Minnesota
    2. Pennington County

    Major cities or towns:

    Thief River Falls
    St. Hilaire
    Goodridge
    Pennington County, Minnesota is a rural county located in the northwestern part of the state. The geography is characterized by flat, fertile farmland with few notable natural features. The climate is continental, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The population is around 15,000, with a median age of 40 and a predominantly white demographic. The economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, with some manufacturing and healthcare also present. The cost of living is below the national average, and the housing market offers affordable single-family homes. The K-12 education system has average performance, while higher education options are limited. Healthcare facilities are basic, with the nearest major hospital about 45 minutes away. Cultural attractions are sparse, though there are some outdoor recreation opportunities like fishing and hunting. The transportation infrastructure is adequate, with the county served by a few state highways. Crime rates are generally low, and the community has a traditional, small-town vibe. Overall, Pennington County provides a quiet, affordable rural lifestyle, but with limited amenities and job prospects compared to more urban areas.

    Demographics

    Population

    14K

    Ethnicity %

    White
    91
    Black
    1
    Asian
    1
    Hispanic
    4

    Median Age

    39.6

    Density

    2 of 10

    23 / Mile²

    Avg Family Size

    3.0

    Religious

    61%

    Foreign Born

    9%

    Veterans

    6.1%

    Adult Smokers

    19%

    Adult Obesity

    31%

    Uninsured

    5%

    Excessive Drinking

    23%

    Poverty Rate

    9.3%

    Weather

    Sunlight

    4.5 hours winter dailyLeast sunny

    Summer average temp

    87°F

    Winter max temp

    21°F

    Precipitation

    21 in.

    Snowfall (inches)

    35.2 (high)

    Drought risk

    Moderate

    Earthquake risk

    Very Low

    Wildfire risk

    Low

    Tornado risk

    Very Low

    Hurricane risk

    Negligible

    Crime

    Rank: 3.1 of 10

    (crimes per 1,000 people yearly)

    Violent

    2 (1.6)

    Property

    5 (24)

    Assault

    1 (0.5)

    Larceny (theft)

    5 (20)

    Robbery

    1 (0.1)

    Burglary

    3 (3.7)

    Rape

    10 (0.99)

    Auto Theft

    3 (1.1)

    Murder

    1 (0.00)

    Arson

    1 (0.00)

    Driving deaths involving alcohol

    10%

    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

    35%

    Republican

    63%

    State Tax Burden

    9.99%

    Cigarette Tax

    $3.04

    Jobs

    Income (per capita)

    $65,416

    Unemployment

    3.4%

    Employment

    65%

    Hours worked

    43.3

    Outdoors

    Natural Amenities

    1.5 / 10

    Water Area

    0.29%

    Near park?

    59%

    Beaches

    Not near the coast

    Mountains

    Not near mountains

    Tree Area

    10%

    Housing

    Home Ownership

    73%

    Median Home Price

    $202K

    Average Rent

    $1,391

    Internet over 25mbps

    98%

    Transportation

    Walkability

    23

    Cycling

    22

    Public Transit

    unknown

    Major Airport

    >2 hours

    Average Commute Time

    15

    Education

    K-12 Test Scores

    9 of 10  

    (avg: 0.19)

    College graduates

    19%

    Culture

    Arts scene

    unknown

    Food awards per 100k

    unknown