Welcome to Roseau, Minnesota USA Message-
Roseau is a welcoming and safe community where members are actively working to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong. As the city reaches a tipping point in becoming a more ethnically diverse community, the presence of New Americans has brought positive change and much-needed diversity. Major employers like Polaris, a Fortune 500 powersports company founded in Roseau, and LifeCare Medical Center have successfully filled job openings with New Americans, contributing to the local economy and workforce. This shift is reshaping the fabric of the community in a meaningful way. Roseau takes great pride in its slogan, “Roseau Feels Like Home,” and is committed to ensuring that all who come here feel truly welcomed.Â
Meet some of our local New Americans and Black, Indigenous, People of Color
Photo Credit: Star Photography
Estrella Lopez English/ Spanish Speaking Photographer
Moved to Roseau in 2023 from Puerto Rico
Moving to a new country and community is a BIG Change.
We want to help make the decision easier and your relocation smoother.
This article will address some of the Common Concerns of New Americans Moving to Roseau and where to Find Support in Roseau County
What are some of the common concerns we hear from New Americans?
The Weather:
Roseau, MN, experiences all four seasons, each bringing its own distinct weather. Winters are long and cold, with average temperatures ranging from -2°F to 15°F in January, often accompanied by heavy snowfall. Spring brings a slow thaw, with temperatures rising to an average of 30°F to 60°F by May, though late snowfalls and chilly nights are common. Summers are warm and pleasant, with average highs between 55°F and 85°F in July, making it the perfect season for outdoor activities. Its not uncommon to see some 90 degree days with a rare 100 degree F in August. Then Fall sees a gradual cool-down, with temperatures averaging 30°F to 60°F by October, as the vibrant autumn leaves signal the approach of another winter.
Job Opportunities:
Roseau County offers a variety of employment opportunities with competitive wages across multiple industries. The Roseau Public School frequently hires paraprofessionals (teacher aides), as well as janitorial and kitchen staff. LifeCare Medical Center provides career opportunities in medical services, care providing, environmental services, and food service. Manufacturing jobs are available at Polaris and Marvin Window. Skilled trades such as plumbing and electrical work are also in high demand. Positions range from entry-level roles to leadership opportunities, ensuring job seekers of all experience levels can find meaningful work.
If you are arriving alone, being sponsored, or moving with family, please look at our business directory on this website and contact those businesses that you are interested in through their links.
Housing:
The housing market in Roseau offers a limited number of rental apartments, which are often in high demand. These well-maintained apartments come with amenities such as fitness centers, balconies, and gathering rooms. Rental prices average around $800 per month, with larger multi-bedroom units or small single-family homes reaching up to $1,500. For those looking to buy, entry-level homes start at approximately $125,000, with prices increasing from there. Most in-city housing options are conveniently located within walking or biking distance of Roseau businesses, making daily commutes easy when weather permits.
Eleven 01 Apartments
Healthcare Access:
LifeCare Medical Center provides excellent medical services to the City of Roseau and region.  Some of offerings provided at Lifecare’s state-of-the-art medical campus in Roseau include: two surgical units, full-line diagnostic unit and lab with MRI and CT scan equipment, dialysis and infusion therapy units, 24-hour Level 4 emergency room, telemedicine, rehabilitation services and wellness center, birthing center, home health care, ambulance and air ambulance services.
Co-located on the LifeCare campus is a medical clinic. The medical clinic is staffed with nine local family practice doctors with varying specialties. LifeCare also provides visiting specialists to the Roseau medical clinic on a rotation basis in the fields of Ophthalmology, Cardiology, Orthopedics, Pediatric Orthopedics, Oncology, General Surgery, Gastroenterology, Podiatry, Psychology, Dietitian, and Allergist.
Education for Children:
Transportation:
Moving to a new place comes with many challenges, and figuring out transportation is an important part of settling in. In Roseau, there is no city bus system, but there are still several ways to get around.
One option is Paul Bunyan Transit, a local transportation service that provides pick-up and drop-off rides throughout Roseau County. This can be a convenient way to travel if you don’t have a personal vehicle. Cost is enxpensive and service is dependable. passes in Roseau are $15 for a 10 ride card. Senior Citizens and children are $12.50. Single rides within the city is $1.50 each.
During the warmer months, biking and walking are great ways to get around town. Roseau has paved trails that connect much of the city, making it safe and easy to commute on foot or by bicycle.
Most residents in Roseau own a personal vehicle, and if you’re looking to buy a car, local banks offer auto loans. To make the process smoother, it helps to have:
✔ Proof of employment, such as a work contract or sponsorship letter
✔ A down payment of 10-15% of the car’s cost
✔ Proof of housing and utility contracts
Whether you choose to drive, bike, or use Paul Bunyan Transit, there are several ways to navigate life in Roseau. If you have questions about purchasing a car or setting up transportation, local community resources can help!
Drivers Licenses: State of Minnesota
If you have never had a driver’s license in the United States, you must pass a written exam to obtain an Instruction Permit. This permit allows individuals aged 18 or older to drive with a licensed driver for three months. After this period, you must pass a behind-the-wheel test to earn your full driver’s license.
Cultural Integration:
Adjusting to a new culture in Roseau, MN, is an enriching experience, as the community is warm and welcoming. Local churches and organizations are always open to new members, making it easy to get involved and build connections. Residents enjoy sharing their experiences, and community events provide a great opportunity to meet new friends. Engaging with the community can also include visiting the Roseau Public Library, volunteering at the Food Shelf or LifeCare Medical Center, and participating in fitness groups like Zumba, Taekwondo, or open swim at the school pool. These activities offer meaningful ways to connect, learn about local traditions, and feel at home in Roseau. Roseau also offers seasonal community events and festivals. Thursdays in the summer you can find a farmers market along the river and live music at the gazebo.Â
Language Barriers:
While most people in Roseau, MN, primarily speak English, language barriers can sometimes be a challenge for newcomers. Fortunately, translating phone services can be a helpful tool for communication. The GoRoseau website (www.goroseau.com) offers a translation feature that converts the site into French and Spanish, making local information more accessible. Roseau schools have bilingual staff available to assist students and families, and LifeCare Medical Center has been actively working with BIPOC and New American communities to improve onboarding, provide translation services, and support both patients and employees. These resources help ensure that language differences don’t become obstacles to fully participating in the community. Many employers are trying to find ways to help new residents feel welcome by creating special events to help locals and newcomers to meet. Getting involved is a big step in cultural integration.
Adult Education:
Safety and Crime
Crime in Roseau is low. Residence feel safe in the community. The Roseau Police Department and the Roseau Volunteer Fire Department provide 24 hour, 7 day a week public safety coverage for patrol and emergency response situations. The Roseau Police Department and the Fire Department also work cooperatively personnel from the Roseau County Sheriff’s Department, Minnesota State Patrol, Minnesota DNR, U.S. Custom’s Service and Border Patrol when necessary for the protection of the public. Many parents feel comfortable letting kids play unattended at parks and there is little to no worry about walking after dark or having something taken from you. In winter months, many locals leave their cars running in the grocery parking lot with the keys in them as they shop. Not advised, but common. There is a sense of safety here.Â
Internet and Technology:
Roseau offers several internet carriers. Here is a list of options:
- Sjoberg: AT&T Internet and AT&T Wireless Service
- Century Link: CenturyLink Internet Availability | 844-900-2040 |Â
- NorthStream Fiber: (need to call to verify if provided in location)Â
Cultural and Religious Institutions:
Recreational Activities and Parks - Open links to learn more!
We have so much to share with you! Please view our Living Local Guide
