2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Brainerd, MN vs Elk River, MN

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Highlights
Are people in Elk River older or younger than people in Brainerd?
- The Median Age in Elk River is 0.0 years older than in Brainerd.

Are housing costs cheaper in Elk River or Brainerd?
- Elk River housing costs are 35.7% more expensive than Brainerd housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Elk River or Brainerd?
- The average commute for residents of Elk River is 12.7 minutes longer than it is for residents of Brainerd.

Things to do in Brainerd?
Brainerd, MN is an inviting small city west of Minneapolis full of amazing places to explore like Brainerd International Raceway displaying its unique environment or Northland Arboretum offering fun rides and tour opportunities; they organize vivid festivals like Brainerd Jaycees Street Fest every August.

Things to do in Elk River?
Elk River, Minnesota is a charming city located in Sherburne County. With a population of around 25,000 people, the city provides plenty of attractions and activities to suit every interest. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and camping, as well as historical sites such as the Elk River School Museum and Old Town Square. The city also features numerous restaurants, shopping centers, and other amenities that make it a great place to visit for a day trip or an extended stay.

 Brainerd, MNElk River, MNUnited States
 Population  Unlock25,467329,725,481
 Median Income$41,671  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3638.4
 Avg. Home Price$266,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.81  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Brainerd    5 Reviews

Research, research, research! Personal reviews don't give you the "whole" story! Whether the opinions are "glowing" or scathing do not base your opinion on them! Some  More

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No comment since you  More

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Over 14 years ago

Small town. Everyone knows everyone else's business. No work. Located in Crow Wing County and has highest unemployment rate in the state. Poor healthcare. Essentia  More

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Reviews for Elk River    3 Reviews

The Northstar commuter rail line and the commuter rail station in Elk River (to be completed later in 2009) that will connect Elk River to Minneapolis, and a recent  More

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Over 18 years ago

good place to live and close to the  More

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Over 19 years ago

Small town but growing, nice place to live. Will be getting mass-transit soon, to  More

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