Ely, MN

View of Ely, MN
Image credit: ShakataGaNai / CC BY-SA 3.0
Population
3,231
U.S. Census Population Estimates Program · 2025
Elevation
1,432 ft
Median Home Value
$157,300
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
Median Rent
$627/mo
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
Median Income
$43,901
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
General Quality
Overall rating out of 100

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About Ely

Set deep in northeastern Minnesota's Northwoods, Ely is famous as the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. What started as an iron mining settlement has evolved into a friendly small town built around a love for the outdoors. Downtown Sheridan Street features local outfitters, cozy diners, and gear shops, along with everyday essentials like a neighborhood hospital, public library, and local schools. Living here means having endless lakes, hiking trails, and cross-country ski routes right outside your door, plus unique local staples like the International Wolf Center. For anyone dreaming of a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by pristine nature and a supportive community, Ely is a special place to call home.

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