Big Lake Apartment Renter's Guide
Big Lake Apartment Renter's Guide
Overview
Big Lake, MN, was named for -- surprise -- a big lake. One which was a very important part of the economy of Minnesota's Twin Cities. Before there were refrigerators, or for that matter the blue plastic ice packs you may use to keep your picnic lunches cool -- there were ice boxes. And they needed ice. And that came from Big Lake.
Big Lake had a population of 10,060 as of the last census in 2010
Big Lake, MN, was named for -- surprise -- a big lake. One which was a very important part of the economy of Minnesota's Twin Cities. Before there were refrigerators, or for that matter the blue plastic ice packs you may use to keep your picnic lunches cool -- there were ice boxes. And they needed ice. And that came from Big Lake.
Big Lake had a population of 10,060 as of the last census in 2010. Located 41 miles from Minneapolis and less than 30 miles from St. Cloud, this lovely small city is close to urban culture but offers many community activities and natural beauty within its boundaries in Sherburne County. It's convenient to both Route 10 and I-94, for easy transportation.
Moving to Big Lake
If you're looking for a home for rent in Big Lake, you need to allow plenty of time to do so. Vacancies are tight in this charming community located on the Mississippi River and the Big Lake itself. Yes, you can find city apartments and rental homes in the area, but do give yourself a month to find the single family homes or apartment complexes you want to call your own.
What to Bring
Bring your winter gloves and boots, because yes, it snows in Big Lake in the winter. You might want to go ice skating too, so heavy socks are in order. But to make your future landlord happy, you'll want to bring your W2s, bank statements, ID, and proof of employment.
Where to Look
Look for yourself by strolling or driving city streets in the area. You'd be well served by not searching in winter, unless snowy conditions are your thing. Check online resources and the West Sherburne Tribune for rental listings.
Neighborhoods in Big Lake
You're likely to need a car in any of these charming neighborhoods, at least if you are commuting, as many do for work, into Minneapolis or St. Paul.
Orrock / Santiago: Rural in feel due to population density, this area is made up mostly of single family homes and mobile homes. Many are medium sized to large and were built between 1970 and the present. Also located in this area: the beautiful pristine woods of the Sherburne National Wildlife Area. The parkland provides a great deal of green space and natural habitat in this neighborhood.
Big Lake City Center: Suburban by density, here's where you'll find many dining and shopping options, as well as medium to small single family homes and a variety of apartment complexes such as Keller Lake Commons. While there are more owner occupied properties than rentals, you can still find many rental options here. And it's worth finding them: Big Lake, Lake Mitchell, and the Mississippi River offer plenty of bucolic waterfront access.
Salida: With a tree lined suburban vibe, Salida is made up of medium to large single family homes and mobile home properties, most built between 1970 and the present. Both the Mississippi River and River Oaks Park offer recreational activities in this part of town.
Living in Big Lake
Located just about 40 miles from Minneapolis/St. Paul, Big Lake was once a popular vacation destination for the cities themselves. Summer cabins provided most of the real estate along the lake. Today, it is considered an exurb of the bigger cities, with many residents commuting in to the Twin Cities daily for work.
Naturally, beautiful Big Lake itself is a potent attraction, but you'll find Ann Lake, Mud Lake, and Rice Lake as well for exploring, not to mention the great Mississippi River itself as a part of this community.
Big Lake's residents mainly drive on their commute to work, but they wouldn't have to do so -- the Northstar Commuter Rail line connects the town to downtown Minneapolis, with plans to extend the line into even-closer St. Cloud.
What About Culture?
There's plenty of culture and community spirit in Big Lake. Local parks like Lakeside or Hidden Rivers offer great walking trails, while playgrounds and youth sports such as the Big Lake Baseball Association games are held in parks like Hudson Woods or Highline. There's a community garden and Farmer's Market too.
Big Lake is also well known for it's annual summer festival. That would be the Spud Fest. Like potatoes? Well you will after enjoying this potato themed event, with games, rides, potato based foods and live music. Pass the fries and the fun. The festival includes a large softball tournament which draws teams from across the state of Minnesota.
Park It Here
You'll find this a town quite rich in green space, in fact there are nearly 215 acres of parkland, including 20 miles of trail and sidewalk. Bike, ride, or hike -- or birdwatch. There's also three and a half miles of green way along the Big Lake. Big Lake's parks and recreation system covers parks, playgrounds, picnic areas, ball fields, and beach access at Lakeside Park. Get your rod and reel ready, there's a fishing pier and boat ramp in Lakeside Park, too.
Appetizing Town
With all the outdoor activities available in Big Lake, you'll still have to stop to eat sometime, and two of the favorite local locations are The Friendly Buffalo where there's live music nightly and a full service bar as well as solid dining options. Or try Russell's on the Lake for food with a view, and an elegant atmosphere right on the lake. There's a patio open in the spring and summer that overlooks the Big Lake itself.