Is Lino Lakes Safe, Pros and cons of living in Lino Lakes
Lino Lakes, Minnesota, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and accessibility to the larger metropolitan area of St. Paul. This community is known for its residential appeal, attracting those who seek a quieter lifestyle while remaining connected to urban amenities. The city’s infrastructure and natural surroundings contribute to its overall desirability for families and individuals alike.
With a population that has seen steady growth, Lino Lakes maintains a strong sense of community. The city’s commitment to providing a high quality of life is evident in its well-maintained parks, accessible public services, and family-friendly atmosphere. This focus on resident well-being makes it a compelling option for those considering a move to the greater Minneapolis-St. Paul region.
Is it Safe to Live in Lino Lakes?
Lino Lakes demonstrates a strong commitment to safety, with crime rates significantly lower than national averages. The city’s overall crime rate is 67% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents (according to AreaVibes). This translates to an average of 0.43 daily crimes, with a very small portion being violent incidents (according to AreaVibes). Residents generally perceive the eastern parts of the city as the safest (according to NeighborhoodScout).
Further analysis of crime statistics indicates that Lino Lakes has a lower violent crime rate than the national average (according to NeighborhoodScout). Specifically, there are 35 violent crimes per 100,000 people, which is 90.2% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). Property crimes also remain below the national average, with 661 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 62.4% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes).
Housing Costs and Real Estate in Lino Lakes
The housing market in Lino Lakes presents a mix of ownership and rental opportunities, with a strong preference for homeownership. Approximately 92% of residents own their homes, a figure that has seen a slight increase from the previous year (according to Niche). The median home value in Lino Lakes is around $407,200, which is higher than the national median of $332,700 (according to Niche).
For those considering renting, the median rent in Lino Lakes is approximately $1,874 per month, which is higher than the national median rent of $1,413 (according to Niche). Recent data indicates that home prices in Lino Lakes have been increasing, with median prices rising by 8.0% compared to the previous year, reaching $490,000 in March 2026 (according to Redfin). The market is described as very competitive, with homes selling in an average of 40 days on the market (according to Redfin).
Cost of Living and Economic Landscape
The overall cost of living in Lino Lakes is slightly lower than the national average, with some expenses being more affordable than the national average. Housing expenses are approximately 6% lower than the national average, and utility prices are about 5% lower (according to Payscale). Transportation costs, including gas prices and bus fares, are also about 4% lower than the national average (according to Payscale).
However, grocery prices in Lino Lakes are about 2% higher than the national average (according to Payscale). Healthcare costs are notably lower, being 9% below the national average (according to Payscale). The median household income in Lino Lakes is around $127,181 annually (according to Point2Homes), which is significantly higher than the national average, helping to offset some of the living expenses.
Employment and Job Market
Lino Lakes experiences a growing employment sector, with a slight increase in jobs over the past year. The most common employment sectors for residents include manufacturing, healthcare and social assistance, and retail trade (according to Data USA). A significant portion of the workforce, about 82.1%, is employed in professional or administrative positions (according to Point2Homes).
The average annual salary in Lino Lakes is approximately $50,373, which translates to about $24.22 per hour (according to ZipRecruiter). However, other sources indicate a higher median household income of $127,181 (according to Point2Homes), suggesting a range in earning potential. Some of the top-paying jobs in the area include Dental Hygienist, RN, and Community Service Officer (according to ZipRecruiter).
Climate and Weather Patterns
Lino Lakes experiences distinct seasonal weather patterns, characteristic of a continental climate. The warm season typically lasts from late May to mid-September, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 71°F. July is the hottest month, with highs around 82°F and lows of 63°F (according to Weather Spark).
Conversely, the cold season spans from late November to early March, with average daily high temperatures falling below 36°F. January is the coldest month, with average lows of 9°F and highs of 24°F (according to Weather Spark). The city receives an average annual rainfall of about 32 inches (according to Livability.com), with June being the wettest month, averaging 4.2 inches of rain (according to Weather Spark).
Education and School System
The public school system in Lino Lakes is generally considered to be above average. Lino Lakes Elementary School, for instance, holds a Niche grade of B and a GreatSchools Rating of 8 out of 10 (according to Homes.com). This elementary school serves students in grades PK-6 and has a student-teacher ratio of 17:1 (according to Homes.com).
Academic performance in some Lino Lakes schools is strong, with institutions like Blue Heron Elementary and Rice Lake Elementary consistently ranking among the best elementary schools in Minnesota. These schools often demonstrate math and reading proficiency rates that surpass state averages (according to SchoolDigger.com). Centennial Middle School also performs well, ranking in the top 50 in the state (according to SchoolDigger.com).
Demographics and Population Overview
Lino Lakes is home to a population of approximately 22,113 residents (according to Niche). The demographic makeup is predominantly White, accounting for about 85% of the population, followed by Asian and African American residents, each at around 4% (according to Niche). Hispanic or Latino individuals represent about 4% of the population (according to Niche).
The median age in Lino Lakes is around 41.5 years (according to Data USA), with a slightly higher male population than female. A notable characteristic is the high percentage of citizens, with 98% of residents being U.S. citizens, which is higher than the national average (according to Data USA). The poverty rate is quite low, at 2.72%, which is significantly below the national average (according to Data USA).
Major Employers and Economic Drivers
While specific lists of major employers are not readily available, the economic landscape of Lino Lakes is supported by a diverse range of industries. Key sectors that employ Lino Lakes residents include manufacturing, healthcare and social assistance, and retail trade (according to Data USA). The presence of these industries indicates a stable job market with varied opportunities for the local workforce.
The city’s proximity to the Twin Cities metropolitan area also provides residents with access to a broader range of employment options. This accessibility, combined with the local economic drivers, contributes to the overall economic health and stability of Lino Lakes. The city’s growth and development are likely supported by a mix of local businesses and larger regional employers.