Although many Millennial couples are waiting to have their first child until their 30s, the dream of a single-family home with a yard of their own is still very much alive.
That’s because adults raised in the ‘90s have fond memories of running through sprinklers or riding their bikes down the street to the local gas station. And they want the same for their children.
Enter Pillager–a peaceful, rural town tucked under lush trees on the backroads of North Central Minnesota. Instead of big box stores, there are quiet neighborhoods and friendly faces on the corner.
Here’s why Pillager is becoming the ideal place for young families to settle down.
Dog-friendly neighbors
Wiry terrier or faithful golden retriever–family films in the 90s and early 2000s were full of dogs as “children’s best friend.” No wonder Millennial parents see them as a keystone to coming of age.
Which is why the dog-friendly neighborhoods and community of Pillager are so appealing.
Rather than settle for a subdivision with strict HOA rules about leashes and scooping, families can give aging pets free use of the yard. And their kids can take Skip on walks without snark from the neighbors.
Bikeable streets
Plywood ramps and the occasional drag race are best tackled on a clean, quiet street. For children living in Pillager, hours can be spent astride bikes, making the most of their own driveway and adjacent pavement.
That’s because the town is known for its walkable (and bikeable) roads. (Often a rarity in rural towns.) Ample hiking opportunities likewise give kids a safe space to burn off energy outdoors.
For parents looking to raise their kids with a little more independence–and a lot less screen time–quiet neighborhood streets are an amenity worth paying for.
Affordable housing
It’s not often that you can get a lot of house on a small loan. But for many young families, two to three bedrooms are a must, along with room to roam outdoors.
Thankfully, areas like Pillager Creek, Fairview Township, and Scearcyville offer manageable median home prices. With an average household income of $64K, single-family homes are highly prized in the $240k to $350k range. Meanwhile, long-term rentals give a sense of place and belonging while parents save up for something bigger.
A close-knit community spirit
At 62% homeowners, Pillager, Minnesota, is the kind of place where neighbors keep up their properties and keep an eye out for one another. That, and its very small population, give this Midwest town the kind of movie script feeling that young couples are craving.
If you are in the market to invest in a long-term rental, you’d best check out Pillager before the best properties are turned into forever homes.
This content is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. Readers should consult with licensed professionals regarding their specific circumstances.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
