HOW FERGUS FALLS COMPARES

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COST OF LIVING

As of January 2023, Fergus Falls’ Cost of Living Index is 73.2, which is well under the U.S. Average of 100. So how does Fergus Falls stack up against nearby metro regions? The cost of living in Fergus Falls is 22.3% more affordable than Fargo, North Dakota, 34.7% more affordable than St. Paul, Minnesota, and 43.4% more affordable than Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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AREA POPULATION

Our 2020 Census Data indicates that 14,119 individuals who reside in Fergus Fall and the surrounding area. These talented and dedicated people not only call the Fergus Falls Region home, but also support local businesses by shopping and receiving services here. With a strong population and workforce, Fergus Falls is able to maintain and grow a diverse range of businesses.

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WORKFORCE

The Fergus Falls Region employs more than 10,000 people who live in the community and surrounding area. During the day, our population increases by approximately 27% due to workforce commuters. Positions are available in a variety of industries, including retail, manufacturing, health care, and social assistance. Fergus Falls maintains an above-average unemployment rate of 3.2%, which is lower than the national average of 3.5%.

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EDUCATION

Fergus Falls is home to Minnesota State Community and Technical College, which enrolls approximately 4,800 students on the Fergus Falls campus. M State was recently ranked the top community college in Minnesota and the #6 best in the nation by WalletHub. In addition to M State’s Fergus Falls Campus, our community is located within 50 miles of five other technical colleges and universities.

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AREA ATTRACTIONS & AMENITIES

Located in the heart of Lakes Country, Fergus Falls has a little of something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of the arts or prefer to spend your free time in the great outdoors, there are plenty of things to keep you busy in the Fergus Falls Region.

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CUISINE

There are over 20 dining options located throughout the city, including healthy farm-to-table and locally sourced restaurants. Fergus Falls also features several breweries. Those who love to cook will enjoy the community’s many locally-owned and chain grocery stores, as well as the local Farmer’s Market.
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ARTS

Fergus Falls features a thriving arts community. A Center for the Arts—a vaudeville house turned Orpheum turned collective theater—presents year-round music, dance, theater, and visual arts. Meanwhile, the Lakes Region Arts Council and Kaddatz Galleries celebrate and support local artists by showcasing their work. Fergus Falls is also Minnesota's headquarters of Springboard for the Arts, focused on cultivating vibrant communities by connecting artists with the skills, information, and services they need to make a living and a life.

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BIKING AND WALKING TRAILS

What better way to truly capture all that Lakes Country has to offer than to take advantage of the area’s many trails? Visit one of the nearby state parks, enjoy downtown Fergus Falls’ Riverwalk, or take in the views from Otter Tail Scenic Byways.

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