Is Windom Safe, Pros and cons of living in Windom
Windom, Minnesota, presents a compelling picture for those seeking a balance between affordability and a comfortable lifestyle. This city offers a unique blend of small-town charm with access to essential amenities, making it an attractive option for various demographics. Its location in Cottonwood County provides a gateway to the natural beauty of the region, alongside a community-focused atmosphere.
The cost of living in Windom is notably lower than both the national and state averages, contributing to its appeal. This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, from housing to everyday expenses. Residents often find that their income stretches further in Windom, allowing for a higher quality of life. The community prides itself on a welcoming environment, where neighbors often form strong bonds.
Is it Safe to Live in Windom?
Windom demonstrates a generally safe environment for its residents. The overall crime rate in Windom is reported to be lower than the national average, contributing to a sense of security for those living there. This statistic is a key factor for individuals and families considering a move to the area.
While overall crime rates are favorable, specific types of crime warrant attention. Violent crime rates in Windom are lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes data). Property crime rates also show a favorable comparison to national figures, with Windom recording lower incidents than the U.S. average (according to AreaVibes). The city has also reported zero homicides in the most recent crime year, further enhancing its safety profile (according to AreaVibes).
Violent Crime Statistics
The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Windom is relatively low. There is a 1 in 400 chance of being a victim of violent crime in Windom (according to NeighborhoodScout). This rate is comparable to the state average, indicating a consistent level of safety across Minnesota (according to NeighborhoodScout).
Violent crimes, which include offenses such as assault, robbery, rape, and murder, occur at a rate that is lower than the national average. Specifically, violent crimes are 30.3% lower than the national average in Windom (according to AreaVibes). This statistic underscores the low likelihood of experiencing such incidents within the city.
Property Crime Overview
Property crime rates in Windom are also on par with or below national averages. Property crime in Windom is 62.1% lower than the U.S. average (according to AreaVibes). The rate of property crime is 7 per 1,000 residents, which is considered average for cities of all sizes in America (according to NeighborhoodScout).
The chance of being a victim of property crime in Windom is 1 in 150. This figure is higher than the state average, suggesting that property crime is more prevalent in Windom compared to the rest of Minnesota (according to NeighborhoodScout). However, the overall crime rate in Windom is still lower than the national average, indicating a generally safe environment.
The Housing Market in Windom
Windom offers a housing market characterized by affordability, with home values significantly lower than both state and national averages. This makes it an attractive location for homebuyers looking for value and stability in their investment. The market shows a steady trend, with opportunities for both buyers and renters.
The median home value in Windom is considerably lower than the state and national averages. As of early 2026, the median home value in Windom was reported to be $171,984 (according to Zillow). This is substantially less than the national median home value of $332,700 (according to Data USA).
Home Prices and Trends
Home prices in Windom have seen some fluctuations but generally remain accessible. The median listing price for homes in Windom was $180,000 (according to Realtor.com®). This figure is well below the average home prices in many other areas, contributing to Windom’s affordability.
Recent market data indicates a slight decrease in home values year-over-year in some reports, while others show modest increases. For instance, one report showed the average home value in Windom was $171,984, down 1.0% over the past year (according to Zillow). Another source indicated a median home value of $169,700 in 2024, with a 7.41% increase from the previous year (according to Data USA).
Rental Market Insights
For those considering renting, Windom provides a range of options. The rental market is generally accessible, with a competitive vacancy rate. This availability ensures that renters can find suitable housing within their budget.
The rental market in Windom offers various types of properties. While specific average rent figures can fluctuate, the overall cost of living, which includes rent, is lower than the national average. This affordability is a significant draw for individuals and families looking to establish themselves in the area.
Cost of Living and Affordability
Windom stands out for its affordability, with a cost of living that is lower than both the U.S. national average and the state average for Minnesota. This economic advantage allows residents to enjoy a higher disposable income and a better overall quality of life.
The cost of living in Windom is approximately 5% lower than the U.S. national average (according to Salary.com). It is also noted as being 11% lower than the Minnesota average (according to AreaVibes). This makes Windom a particularly attractive option for those seeking to maximize their budget.
Key Cost Drivers
Housing is a primary driver of Windom’s affordability. Housing costs in Windom are significantly lower than the national average, making homeownership and renting more accessible. This is a key factor in the city’s overall lower cost of living.
Other expenses such as food, transportation, and utilities also contribute to the city’s affordability. These costs are generally in line with or below national averages, further enhancing Windom’s appeal as an economical place to live. The city ranks as one of the least expensive cities in America according to some analyses (according to Salary.com).
Income and Wages
The median household income in Windom provides a good benchmark for understanding the local economy. The median household income in Windom is $74,899 (according to Data USA). This figure is supported by an average salary that aligns with the cost of living, allowing residents to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
The average salary in Windom is reported around $40,000 per year, with an average hourly pay of $19.0 (according to Zippia). While this may seem lower than some urban centers, it is balanced by the significantly lower cost of living. This ensures that purchasing power is maintained, making Windom a financially sound choice.
Job Market and Major Employers
Windom boasts a stable job market with several key employers contributing to its economic vitality. The city’s economy is supported by a mix of manufacturing, education, and healthcare sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities for residents.
The Toro Company is a significant employer in Windom, operating one of its manufacturing facilities there. Additionally, Windom Public Schools-ISD 177 and Windom Area Health are major employers, reflecting the city’s commitment to education and healthcare services. Fortune Transportation also plays a role in the local economy with a notable number of employees.
Key Industries and Companies
Manufacturing is a cornerstone of Windom’s employment landscape, with Toro being a prominent name in this sector. The company’s presence provides numerous jobs related to the production of consumer goods. Other notable employers include Ag Builders of Southern MN Inc., Fast Global Solutions, and Big Game Treestands, which is headquartered in Windom.
The public sector also offers substantial employment. Windom Public Schools-ISD 177 and Windom Area Health are vital to the community, providing essential services and numerous job opportunities. These diverse employers contribute to a resilient and varied job market.
Unemployment Rate
The unemployment rate in Windom is generally low, reflecting a healthy job market. Recent data indicates an unemployment rate of approximately 5.8% (according to Zippia). This figure is competitive and suggests that job seekers have a good chance of finding employment within the city and surrounding areas.
The labor force in Windom is robust, with a high percentage of employed individuals. With a labor force of 2,378 and 2,295 employed individuals, the city demonstrates strong economic participation (according to Wikipedia). This low unemployment rate contributes to the overall stability and attractiveness of Windom as a place to live and work.
Climate and Weather in Windom
Windom experiences a climate typical of the Upper Midwest, characterized by distinct seasons. Residents can expect warm summers, cold winters, and moderate spring and fall periods. The weather patterns are generally predictable, allowing for planning of outdoor activities throughout the year.
Temperatures in Windom range throughout the year, with average highs in the summer reaching into the mid-80s Fahrenheit and average lows in the winter dropping into the single digits Fahrenheit. The city experiences a substantial amount of snowfall during the winter months, adding to the seasonal landscape.
Temperature and Seasonal Variations
Summer in Windom is warm, with July being the hottest month, averaging a high of 84°F and a low of 63°F (according to myPerfectWeather). The winter months bring freezing temperatures, with January seeing average highs around 25°F and average lows near 8°F (according to myPerfectWeather).
The transitional seasons of spring and autumn offer milder temperatures. These periods are often ideal for enjoying the local parks and outdoor recreational opportunities. Overall, Windom offers a four-season climate that appeals to those who appreciate seasonal changes.
Precipitation and Snowfall
Windom receives a moderate amount of precipitation annually. The average annual precipitation is around 32 inches, which includes both rain and the liquid equivalent of snow (according to myPerfectWeather). June typically sees the most rainfall, with an average of 5 inches for the month.
Winter brings significant snowfall to Windom, with an average of 44 inches annually (according to myPerfectWeather). This snowfall contributes to the picturesque winter scenery and provides opportunities for winter sports and activities. The drier period of the year generally occurs from late November to early March.
Demographics and Population
Windom is a small city with a population that reflects a close-knit community. The demographics showcase a stable population with a median age that aligns with national averages, suggesting a balanced age distribution.
As of the most recent data, Windom has a population of approximately 4,797 people (according to Data Commons). The median age in Windom is 38.9 years (according to Data Commons), which is consistent with the median age across the United States. This demographic profile suggests a community with a mix of younger families and established residents.
Racial and Ethnic Composition
The racial composition of Windom is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of other racial and ethnic groups. This demographic makeup is typical for many smaller communities in the Midwest region.
White residents constitute the largest portion of the population, making up approximately 77.02% (according to Data Commons). Other significant demographic groups include those identifying as Hispanic or of two or more races. The city also has smaller populations of Black or African American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, Asian, and Native American residents.
Age and Gender Distribution
The age distribution in Windom shows a relatively even spread across different age groups. The median age of 38.9 years indicates a community that is neither predominantly young nor elderly. This balance contributes to a dynamic community life.
The gender distribution is fairly balanced, with slightly more females than males in some reports. For every 100 females, there are approximately 88.5 males (according to Data Commons). This slight imbalance is common in many populations and does not significantly impact community dynamics.
Education and School Ratings
Windom’s educational landscape is served by public schools that are generally rated as above average. The school district focuses on providing a comprehensive education to its students, preparing them for future academic and career pursuits.
Windom Public School District is recognized for its commitment to education. The district serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, with a student-teacher ratio that supports individualized attention. Schools in Windom average a “C+” grade, with proficiency rates meeting expectations (according to BestNeighborhood.org).
School District Performance
Windom Public School District is considered above average within the state of Minnesota. It ranks among the top school districts in the state for diversity and teacher quality (according to Niche). The district aims to provide a well-rounded educational experience for all its students.
The district has a student-teacher ratio of 13 to 1, indicating a favorable learning environment (according to Niche). While state test scores show that 37% of students are proficient in math and 43% in reading, the district is committed to continuous improvement and student success.
Individual School Highlights
Windom Senior High School is a notable institution within the district, offering a solid college preparatory program. It receives a “B” grade and is recognized for its college prep offerings within Minnesota (according to Niche).
Windom Area Elementary School and Windom Middle School also contribute to the educational framework of the city. These schools, along with the high school, work to foster a supportive learning environment for students from elementary through their final years of secondary education.