Is Big Lake a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Big Lake receives an overall livability score of 4.5 out of 5.0, earning a grade of A+. Key strengths include above-average household incomes, low unemployment, affordable housing, high health insurance coverage. Areas to be aware of include long commute times. Big Lake stands out as an excellent place to live, with strong marks across most quality-of-life indicators.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Big Lake is $120,625, which is significantly higher than the national average — 61% above $75,149. This places Big Lake among higher-income communities. The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 0.0%. 9.0% of residents live in poverty, near the national average of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 45 minutes, longer than the typical American commute of 28 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Big Lake is $216,200, 23% below the national median — offering relatively affordable homeownership. At just 1.8x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Education
Educational attainment is solid, with 33.4% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, near the national average. 96.3% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 6/10.
Climate & Weather
Big Lake experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 50°F. Winters average 24°F in January while summers reach 72°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 39.1 inches, including 21.4 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41.