Here is what Big Stone County has to offer for those looking to move and live there:
1. Housing & Cost of Living
- Affordable Housing: Known as one of the most affordable counties in Minnesota, featuring a high percentage of owner-occupied homes.
- Small Towns: Key communities include the county seat Ortonville (known for its “sparse suburban feel”), Graceville, Clinton, and Beardsley.
- Senior Housing Investment: Local communities have actively invested in senior housing to support an aging population
2. Natural Beauty & Outdoor Recreation
- Big Stone Lake: A 26-mile-long lake known for excellent walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch fishing, as well as ice fishing in the winter.
- Parks & Wildlife: The area hosts Big Stone Lake State Park (including a Scientific and Natural Area), Toqua Park on Toqua Lake, and the Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge.
- Activities: Residents enjoy hiking, birding, camping, 18-hole golf in Ortonville, and boating.
3. Community & Lifestyle
- Small Town Atmosphere: Known for safe communities and a quiet, relaxed pace of life, often described as “living rural and loving it”.
- Annual Events: The area is famous for Corn Fest in Ortonville (held annually for over 75 years) and the Upper Minnesota Valley Art Crawl (Meander).
- Community Amenities: Includes local dining (such as the Lakewood Supper Club), unique shopping like “Let’em Buck” clothing, and a community museum.
Western Minnesota Prairie Waters – +3
4. Infrastructure & Services
- Broadband Internet: Despite being rural, many areas have wired broadband, making it suitable for remote work.
- Healthcare: Two medical centers/clinics are located in the county (Ortonville Hospital & Northside Medical Clinic).
- Education: There are two main public school districts, with high school graduation rates exceeding the national average.
5. Job & Business Environment
- Agriculture & Industry: A strong agriculture base (corn, soybeans, wheat) and local granite quarrying.
- Remote Work & Small Business: The area supports small businesses, artists, and remote workers looking to escape larger city centers.