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The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has released its latest county profile for Koochiching County, offering a data-rich snapshot of the community’s population, workforce, economy, and quality of life. Here’s what the numbers say about where we stand — and where we’re headed.
Koochiching County is the 62nd largest of Minnesota’s 87 counties — and one of the fastest shrinking. Since the 2020 Census, the population has fallen by 468 people, a 3.9% decline that ranks it 85th in growth statewide.
The population is aging significantly, with more than a third of residents (33.4%) between the ages of 55 and 74. The county recorded far more deaths than births between 2020 and 2024, and experienced net out-migration. A small bright spot: eight international immigrants chose to make Koochiching County home during this period.
505 (4.4%)
1,145 (9.9%)
1,159 (10.0%)
1,072 (9.2%)
1,245 (10.7%)
1,324 (11.4%)
1,943 (16.8%)
1,920 (16.6%)
854 (7.4%)
427 (3.7%)
Here’s how the age distribution has shifted since 2000. The Baby Boom generation’s movement through the pyramid is striking — what was once a bulge in the 35-to-54 range has now shifted to the 55-to-74 range:
Under 5
5–14
15–24
25–34
35–44
45–54
55–64
65–74
75–84
85+
The Minnesota State Demographic Center projects the county will shrink from 11,303 in 2025 to 9,625 by 2035 — a loss of 1,678 people (14.8%). That rate far outpaces the projected statewide growth of 3.7%.
Koochiching County matches the state in high school completion, with 93.2% of adults holding at least a diploma. The county outperforms the state in associate’s degree attainment — reflecting the role of Minnesota North College (formerly Rainy River Community College) — but trails in bachelor’s and advanced degrees.
The labor force has been shrinking for decades, losing an average of 81 workers per year since 2010. Looking ahead, projections show the workforce declining from 5,504 in 2025 to 4,490 by 2035.
One standout characteristic of the local workforce: Koochiching County workers overwhelmingly live and work in the same place.
The workforce is nearly evenly split by gender (3,030 men, 2,913 women) and 90.8% White. Workers here tend to start early — 13.9% leave for work between 5:00 and 5:59 a.m. compared to 9.1% statewide, and another 22% head out between 6:00 and 6:59 a.m. Most drive (82.3%), with 7.1% using alternative methods like walking or biking.
Koochiching County’s incomes are lower than the statewide average — but so is the cost of living. That gap in affordability is one of the county’s genuine strengths.
16.1%
22.5%
30.9%
47.2%
3.5%
10.5%
21.8%
31.8%
32.4%
The Northeast Minnesota region (DEED Region 3) has a median hourly wage of $23.47 — seventh among the state’s 13 economic development regions, and below the statewide median of $26.22.
$46.38/hr
$40.98/hr
$40.58/hr
$40.04/hr
$38.42/hr
$36.86/hr
$36.09/hr
$34.23/hr
$14.56/hr
$16.71/hr
$17.15/hr
$17.77/hr
Koochiching County has the 66th largest economy among Minnesota’s 87 counties. Manufacturing leads in employment — driven largely by the Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) paper mill, which has anchored the local economy since 1910.
633 jobs
582 jobs
573 jobs
441 jobs
171 jobs
141 jobs
110 jobs
99 jobs
93 jobs
66 jobs
The DEED profile confirms trends that many residents already sense: Koochiching County is getting smaller and older, with fewer young people entering the workforce than older workers leaving it. The labor market is tight — good for job seekers, but a growing challenge for employers.
At the same time, the data highlights genuine strengths. The cost of living is significantly lower than the state average, with housing that is affordable by nearly any Minnesota standard. Workers enjoy short commutes and strong ties to the local economy, with more than nine out of 10 employed right here in the county. Healthcare, manufacturing, construction, and public administration provide well-paying career opportunities, and demand for skilled workers spans every education level.
The county’s economic foundation — built on the PCA mill, Voyageurs National Park tourism, healthcare, and government services — continues to support more than 4,200 jobs and a $241 million payroll. The challenge ahead is sustaining that base as the workforce shrinks and the population ages.
Data sources: U.S. Census Bureau 2024 Population Estimates, 2019-2023 American Community Survey, Minnesota State Demographic Center population projections, DEED Local Area Unemployment Statistics, DEED Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics (Q1 2025), DEED Quarterly Census of Employment & Wages (2024), and DEED Job Vacancy Survey (2024).
Koochiching County is the second largest county in the state by land area, encompassing approximately 3,154 square miles!
Koochiching County has a government structure dedicated to meeting the needs of its rural communities. The county covers a vast area of nearly 3,100 square miles, making it one of the largest counties in the state. Its government provides essential services to residents, from public safety to land management, while also ensuring that the county’s natural beauty and resources are preserved.
Koochiching County is known for its vast forests, pristine lakes, and Rainy River. The county seat is International Falls, the “Icebox of the Nation”. Despite the cold, the area is a favorite... Read more
