About Cook County

A Community Defined by Place, People, and Purpose

Welcome to Cook County, Minnesota

Cook County is a place defined by natural beauty, creative energy, and a deep sense of community. Located along the rugged shoreline of Lake Superior and extending north into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, the region offers a rare blend of outdoor adventure, cultural richness, and quiet living. From its expansive forests and trail systems to its small-town hospitality, Cook County draws residents, workers, and visitors who value connection—to nature, to creativity, and to one another.

As families, seasonal employees, retirees, and entrepreneurs continue to make Cook County their home, the need for accessible, stable, and affordable housing has grown. The Cook County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) plays a critical role in addressing these needs and ensuring that the community remains a place where people can thrive.

Grand Marais: A Harbor Town Full of Character

A Harbor Town Full of Character

Grand Marais, the county seat, is a picturesque harbor village situated where the Sawtooth Mountains meet the expansive waters of Lake Superior. Known for its iconic lighthouse, vibrant arts community, and welcoming atmosphere, Grand Marais is both a destination and a home for those who appreciate creativity and adventure.

Residents enjoy:

Direct access to hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and world-class trail systems
A thriving arts and cultural scene, including galleries, craft studios, and festivals
Locally owned dining and shopping experiences
A walkable downtown with breathtaking views in every season

Grand Marais offers a quality of life rooted in nature, connection, and community—but like much of Cook County, it faces unique housing challenges shaped by its geography, tourism-driven economy, and limited land availability.

Housing Challenges in Cook County

Cook County’s beauty and remoteness create a housing landscape unlike anywhere else in Minnesota. Several factors contribute to the limited availability and rising costs of homes across the region:

These challenges impact everything from local business staffing to school enrollment, family stability, and long-term community sustainability.

1. High Demand in a Limited Market

With a tight housing supply, workforce members, families, and seniors often compete for the same limited rental and homeownership opportunities.

2. Seasonal Workforce Needs

The county’s strong tourism economy attracts seasonal employees, increasing the need for short-term and year-round workforce housing.

3. Aging Housing Stock

Many homes require significant repairs or energy-efficiency improvements, which can be cost-prohibitive for residents.

4. Geographic Constraints

Remote landscapes, infrastructure limitations, and the preservation of natural resources reduce available land for new development.

These challenges impact everything from local business staffing to school enrollment, family stability, and long-term community sustainability.

How the Cook County HRA Supports the Community

The Cook County Housing and Redevelopment Authority is dedicated to ensuring that residents—present and future—have access to safe, stable, and attainable homes. Through planning, partnerships, funding programs, and targeted development, the HRA works to meet the county’s unique housing needs.

Our Work Includes:

Developing new housing opportunities for individuals and families across income levels
Coordinating strategic housing initiatives, such as the Countywide Housing Plan
Advancing mixed-income developments, such as the Gunflint Vue multifamily project
Partnering with local organizations to strengthen housing supports and expand resources
Facilitating community conversations around zoning, land use, and long-term housing strategy

Everything the HRA does is guided by its core values of Action, Integrity, and Inclusion, ensuring that housing solutions benefit the entire community.

A Vision for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future

The HRA’s mission is rooted in the belief that Cook County should remain a place where individuals and families can grow and flourish for generations. By focusing on attainable housing, energy efficiency, and long-term planning, the HRA aims to help preserve the unique character of Cook County while supporting the people who make this region so special.

Grand Marais and the surrounding communities are more than destinations—they are home. And the HRA is committed to ensuring that home is accessible, resilient, and welcoming to all.