According to City-Data, Blaine, Minn., grew in population by 27.2 percent between 2000 and 2010. Now home to approximately 57, 200 residents, this growing Twin Cities suburb has become a great place to live for those looking for a further-out metro location. Located about 20 miles north of Minneapolis, this semi-rural city has seen significant growth over the past half-century.
Those searching for Blaine apartments for rent will love the city's family-friendly, semi-rural vibe and established neighborhoods. It doesn't hurt that the Twin Cities are just a stone's throw away, making them perfect options for day trips or weekend excursions.
Blaine was part of Anoka, Minn., until 1877. Though surrounding areas gave way to farmland, Blaine's wetlands made it inhospitable for farming, and its growth was slow until after World War II when suburban living became fashionable. Between 1950 and 1970, Blaine's population skyrocketed, giving the city many of the mid-century homes it still enjoys today.
Blaine residents enjoy numerous small-town benefits, including a first-rate recreation department. A variety of year-round activities make it possible for residents to enjoy a charming and community-oriented lifestyle. A dynamic senior citizen program helps seniors meet new friends with similar interests, while playgrounds and athletics allow youth and adults alike to participate in good, old-fashioned community competition.
Blaine residents may choose to participate in one of the city's organized activities, such as the Get Fit Health and Fitness Challenge, Computer Explorers, Youth Dance or Preschool programs. Residents also benefit from more than 70 miles of trails and sidewalks, more than 60 parks and a variety of golf courses, ice rinks, beaches and open space. Four-legged Blaine residents are happy to romp at one of the city's two off-leash dog parks.
Blaine is home to the Minnesota School of Business and a campus of the Regency Beauty Institute. Additionally, numerous colleges and universities are located within commutable distance of the city. Anoka-Ramsey Community College, Bethel University, North Hennepin Community College, Northwestern College, Hennepin Technical College, Walden University and University of Minnesota - Twin Cities are all located less than 15 miles from Blaine.
Many Blaine residents commute to larger suburbs or the Twin Cities for work. As a result, Blaine sees its population decline by about 19 percent during workdays. However, numerous employment opportunities are located within the immediate area. According to Blaine's 2011 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the top employers in the city are Aveda Corporation, Target Corporation, Cub Foods, Infinite Campus, PTC, Carley Foundry, National Sports Center, Walmart Stores, Home Depot and Burmo.
According to City-Data, Blaine's cost of living index is 112.8, which is 12.8 percent higher than the U.S. average. Those searching for Blaine apartments should also consider commuting costs when planning their monthly budgets if they plan to work outside of the city itself. New residents will want to note that the majority of homes in Blaine are owned rather than renter-occupied. The median gross rent in the city is $986 per month.
Blaine is home to the National Sports Center, which boasts the title of "World's Largest Amateur Sports and Meeting Facility." The center offers a PGA Tour-designed public golf course, a super rink, 52 athletic fields, a large stadium, a velodrome and numerous other halls, meeting places and sports facilities. Various sports-related events are held at the National Sports Center throughout the year.
To find your next rental apartment or house in Blaine, take a look at our listings on Rent.com®.