Turtle Lake Public RecordsNorth Dakota

Turtle Lake, located in McLean County, North Dakota, had a population of approximately 568 in the 2020 Census. The median age was 53.6 years, with about 27% of residents aged 65 or older. The gender distribution was roughly 52% female and 48% male. Racially, the city was predominantly White (about 95%), with small representations of Native American (2%), African American, Asian, and other races (each below 1%). Hispanic or Latino ethnicity accounted for roughly 1% of the population.

Turtle Lake, in McLean County, ND, features a homeownership rate of approximately 77%, with median home values around $80,000 (as of 2022). Median gross rent is about $610 per month. The housing stock is primarily single-family homes, with some older properties and modest new builds. Property value trends remain stable, with limited fluctuations. Neighborhoods are quiet and residential, often close to local parks and amenities. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging about 1.3% of assessed home value, making Turtle Lake an affordable option for families and retirees seeking small-town living.

Turtle Lake, located in McLean County, ND, has one public school: Turtle Lake-Mercer Public School, serving K-12 with an enrollment of around 130 students. The school boasts a student-teacher ratio of approximately 8:1 and an overall GreatSchools score of 5/10. While local adult education or bachelor's degree programs are not available within the city, many adults pursue higher education in nearby towns. The district prioritizes school safety and offers academic support, career-readiness, and extracurricular programs, ensuring a well-rounded educational environment for all students.

Turtle Lake, McLean County, ND, is a small rural city where transportation primarily relies on personal vehicles—over 95% of households own at least one car. Public transit options are virtually nonexistent, with under 1% using alternatives like rideshares or carpools. Average commute times are short, typically around 15–20 minutes, as many residents work locally or in nearby towns. The city’s transportation infrastructure is centered on state highways and well-maintained local roads, with no major employment hubs; key employers include local schools, healthcare, and agriculture-related businesses within a 20-mile radius.

Turtle Lake, McLean County, ND (population ~580), has limited healthcare facilities, with the main provider being CHI St. Alexius Health Turtle Lake, a 25-bed critical access hospital offering emergency, inpatient, outpatient, clinic, and long-term care. Access to specialized care requires travel to larger cities like Bismarck (about 60 miles away). The county’s uninsured rate is approximately 8%, and about 20% of residents are aged 65+. Common health issues include chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Turtle Lake’s provider-to-population ratio is about 1 primary care physician per 2,000 residents.