Lookout Idaho! While first settlers farmed sugar beets, potatoes quickly became East Grand Forks' main agricultural export. The fertile soil and sunny growing seasons offer great conditions for the crop.
East Grand Forks is a city in northwestern Minnesota that covers an area of just under six square miles. East Grand Forks is the largest city in Polk County. The city boasts a population of 8,601 and is about 830 feet above sea level. East Grand Forks was founded in 1887 and is located across the river from Grand Forks, North Dakota.
Moving to East Grand Forks
One of the most appealing things about life in East Grand Forks is its low cost of living compared to larger cities in the Midwest. Not to mention, its proximity to Grand Forks, North Dakota makes it an appealing place to live. There is a variety of housing options in East Grand Forks. You'll find everything from planned communities and new suburban houses to older craftsman homes and brick houses. No matter what type of residence or style of home you are generally drawn to, you're bound to find it in East Grand Forks.
There are always challenges when searching for property and a home to call your own. Whether you are looking for a house to buy or a house to rent in East Grand Forks, start off with a little bit of flexibility. By keeping an open mind, you'll be able to truly identify what is most important in your dwelling. If you find a house to rent, you'll need to be prepared to provide a deposit and, on occasion, an application fee. You'll also likely need to move quickly since most of the homes in East Grand Forks are owned and not set up as rental properties. In general, giving yourself some flexible parameters, as well as allowing yourself plenty of time will ensure that you find housing accommodations that are right for you.
If you're looking for apartments to rent in East Grand Forks, you'll certainly be able to find something that suits your requirements. There are a variety of choices (as you'll discover in your apartment search) with different layouts and amenities. The city does have private landlords, as well as apartment complexes. You should note, however, that often times an apartment complex will require you to provide a background and credit check in advance of signing the contract. Many times, complexes and agencies will run rental specials -- so make sure you ask if there are any discounts.
Neighborhoods in East Grand Forks
While it is certainly fitting to think of East Grand Forks as a suburb of Grand Forks, North Dakota, the town has quite a bit of variety in its housing options. Though there are no distinct neighborhoods, the city is divided by the Red Lake River. As you're considering neighborhoods and accessibility in East Grand Forks, it is important to keep a few things in mind. The main thoroughfares into East Grand Forks include US Route 2, US Route 2 Business, and Minnesota State Highway 220. So in order to have easy access for commuting outside of East Grand Forks, you'll want to look nearest these routes. Downtown East Grand Forks is along US Route 2 Business and 3rd Street. To get a more urban residential feel close to local shops, restaurants and the riverfront park, stick near downtown. The more rural communities are along Old Highway 220 and Rhinehart Drive. It's there you'll find more sprawling lots and parks, along with some smaller lakes as well.
Living in East Grand Forks
Though East Grand Forks sits in the shadow of Grand Forks, North Dakota, there are some things to do in the city. Make sure to visit the Heritage Village in East Grand Forks, the local restaurants along Demers and Second Street near the river, and explore some of the local parks -- including O'Leary Park, Sherlock Park, and River Heights. To get a cultural fix, you can be in Grand Forks, North Dakota in minutes. Located just across the river, it's easy to go to Grand Forks for dinner, a night out, or for a leisurely weekend. In Grand Forks, you'll find the North Dakota Museum of Art, the Historical Society's Myra Museum as well as the orchestra -- among many more things.