North Branch spent 1861 to 1901 as a single township, but in 1901, it split into two separate townships. Starting in the 1970s, it appears as if they changed their minds, and by the end of 1994, the city of North Branch was whole again.
Although North Branch has a respectable population of over 10,000 residents, and experienced an over 300 percent population boom during the 1990s, the large land area that it represents still means that residents can have plenty of privacy from their neighbors if they so choose. In fact, the population density of the city is not even 300 people per square mile. At that point, you might as well pretend you're in London and start measuring population density by kilometer. It will look better on paper.
Moving to North Branch
Ah, North Branch, why dost thou torture us? Full disclosure, it's cold here; but if you can deal with that, moving to the city would be a great idea for just about anyone. The crime rate is only a few tenths of a percentage point away from the state's average, but since the state's average is only half of America's, the area is pretty darned safe. Add that to the perks that come along with being in the area, and you've got a great place to move. Hold your horses, though; you're going to need to be prepared if you're hoping to stay in this winter wonderland.
When to Start Looking
What were you doing at this exact time one month ago? Whatever it was, you should've been looking for places to live in North Branch. The population in the city has been growing consistently since the 1930s, and if you think about it, this is a bit strange considering the timing of the Great Depression.
Regardless of how weird it is, though, the city's population grew from under 700 in 1930 to 10,125 in 2010. Unfortunately for you, the rate of construction hasn't kept up with population growth, and so the amount of available rental homes isn't that large. Come to think of it, less than 15 percent of residents are renters in North Branch, so maybe everyone is just deciding to stay once they try the place out. Moral of the story: start looking at least two months in advance.
When to Make the Move
For the love of Pete, avoid the winter if at all possible. Average low temperatures are near or below freezing for seven months of the year. Heck, the average low temperature in January is three. No, that's not a typo and there's no missing number. It literally gets to three degrees during an average day in January. Even if you're getting movers to get all of your things into your new rental condo, that means your front door is going to be open for a large portion of the day. Just be smart about it; aim for Independence Day!
What to Bring Along
Everything. Well, everything that's going to help you get an apt for rent here. Landlords don't have to be rushed to rent a place, so even if you're the first to inquire about an apartment, it doesn't necessarily mean that they won't wait for the next prospective tenant. Just make sure to bring along a completed rental application in addition to proof of income and employment. If you really want to go the extra mile, though, have a credit check, background check and references from former landlords in tow as well.
North Branch Neighborhoods
North Branch is huge, but that doesn't mean there's a million-and-one neighborhoods. Due to the low population density, in fact, there are large chunks of the city that are simply unpopulated and undeveloped. Hey, that makes for some gorgeous scenic drives. You know, in case your power goes out and the North Pole isn't your idea of a fun afternoon.
Far North: The northernmost area of North Branch is pretty much the city's panhandle, and boy is it highly unpopulated. Seriously, Google Maps didn't even bother driving down most of the roads for a street-level view. At least Interstate 35 cuts right through it, and if you feel like hiking, Mud Lake is a perfect destination.
Harder Park: The area around Harder Park gets more populated as Interstate 35 and Route 95 converge. You'll find communities like Ashwood Apartments and Shields Plaza Apartments in this area, but be careful if you're acting bad. The police department is here too.
Southeastern North Branch: This is where you'll find the North Branch Golf Course, so get ready to practice that back swing. Unless it's winter. Just stay inside then. Most homes and units you'll come across in your apartment search will be gorgeous in this area, and you'll be able to find just about anything along Main Street.
Living in North Branch
Most cities of this size with such low population densities would just be happy to be within a 45-minute drive of Minneapolis, just like North Branch is; but that's not the case here. Well, you can still be happy, but there are plenty of things to enjoy in North Branch as well. In fact, you don't even have to look hard to find them. In fact, you don't have to look hard at all since we've already done all the work for you. We really should be getting paid for this.
Community Gatherings
North Branch often has events that the entire community can enjoy. These are often held at Central Park. Not that Central Park. New York's Central Park would probably feel like the equator compared to here.
Get Off the Grid
Kozy Oaks Kamp provides you the chance to get out into the great outdoors and spend some time away from that awesome condo for rent you found. Why anyone would sleep outdoors in the winter, though, we'll never know.
A Night on the Town
Just because the city is sparsely populated doesn't mean that there's not stuff to do here. Heck, hit up the North Branch Cinema to catch the latest flicks before heading out for a nice dinner.
Get Cultured
If you're into theater or musicals, the North Star Theater Company will undoubtedly become one of your favorite hangouts. Seriously, go check it out; and while you're there, you might as well audition. Who knows? You might be good. Break a leg! Just not literally.
