Why Perham?
Perham, Minnesota, is a charming small city nestled in the heart of Otter Tail County's "Land of 10,000 Lakes," offering a unique blend of a relaxed, resort-like lifestyle and a vibrant, progressive economy.
For those seeking a high quality of life with a strong sense of community, Perham provides an excellent alternative to big-city living without sacrificing modern amenities and opportunities.
Location and Lifestyle
Perham's most immediate appeal is its stunning location amidst Minnesota's lake country.
Recreational Paradise: The region boasts numerous lakes, providing endless opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing (especially for walleye and bass), and other water activities in the summer. The surrounding landscape is perfect for hiking, biking, and a 27-hole municipal golf course. In the winter, the area is active with snowmobiling and ice fishing.
Small-Town Charm, Big-City Amenities: Despite its small population (just over 3,000 people), Perham offers an active downtown with a variety of specialty shops, restaurants, and pubs. It also features a massive 66,000-square-foot Community Center that includes a pool, water slide, gyms, and fitness rooms, which is a major draw for residents of all ages.
Close-Knit Community: Perham is consistently described as a friendly, welcoming, and close-knit community. Annual events like the famous International Turtle Races and Turtle Fest help foster a strong local spirit and provide year-round activities for residents.
Economic Opportunity and Low Cost of Living
Perham's economy is robust and surprisingly diverse for its size, offering stability and job growth.
Major Employers: Key industries include Manufacturing, Retail Trade, and Health Care, with major employers like KLN Family Brands (a pet food and candy maker), Perham Health, Kit Masters, and Arvig providing significant local employment.
Business-Friendly Environment: The city has a progressive economic development agency that offers support and incentives, including business tax incentives and revolving loan funds, making it an attractive place for entrepreneurs and business growth.
Affordability: Perham offers a lower cost of living compared to many other Minnesota cities. The median property value is below the national average, making homeownership accessible, and the average commute time is short (around 12.5 minutes).
Education and Healthcare
The community places a high value on essential services, making it a great place to raise a family or retire.
Excellent Schools: The Perham School District is well-regarded, with high rankings within Otter Tail County. The schools are known for their strong academics and athletics, and even offer modern amenities like iPads for junior and senior high students, along with a trade-focused curriculum.
Quality Healthcare: Perham Health is the primary healthcare provider, offering comprehensive, high-quality medical services to the community, including specialized services for seniors.
Family and Senior Focus: Perham is ranked highly as one of the best places to raise a family in Otter Tail County. Furthermore, its peaceful environment, community centers, and range of assisted living and home care services also make it an ideal place for retirement.
The blend of its lakeside setting, strong economy, and supportive community services solidify Perham, Minnesota, as a genuinely great place to call home.