With a population of 86,239 as of 2021 according to Wikipedia, Duluth is the fourth largest city in Minnesota and is the county seat of St. Louis County. This vibrant city sits at the westernmost point of the Great Lakes, at the head of Lake Superior and near the junction of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
History and Early Economy
The area was originally inhabited by the Ojibwe, Sioux, and other Native American tribes. French fur traders visited the area in the 1600s, followed by European settlers in the mid-1800s once copper deposits were discovered. Duluth was officially incorporated as a town in 1857 and saw massive growth as lumber harvesting took off in the surrounding forests. By the late 1800s, Duluth had established itself as a major seaport for transporting lumber, iron ore, and grain.
Modern Duluth
Today, Duluth has transitioned to a more diverse economy centered around healthcare, education, tourism, and professional services. Some of the major employers include St. Luke’s Hospital, Essentia Health, the University of Minnesota Duluth, Cirrus Aircraft, and Lake Superior College. The city has revitalized its downtown area along Lake Superior and the Duluth Harbor, creating green spaces, public art, and attractions like the Great Lakes Aquarium.
Population and Demographics
According to 2020 census data, Duluth has a population of about 86,000 residents, making it the second largest city in Minnesota after Minneapolis. The population is predominantly white at about 85%, with Native Americans making up the largest minority group at around 5% of the population. Other ethnicities include black or African American (3%), Asian (3%), and Hispanic or Latino (2%).
The median age in Duluth is 34.5 years old. 21% of the population is under age 18 and 13% is age 65 or older. Over 91% of residents have a high school diploma and 35% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median household income is $55,000.
Climate and Geography
Duluth has a humid continental climate with cool summers and long, cold winters. It’s located 14 miles from the Wisconsin border, at an elevation of 610 feet above Lake Superior. Winters average 19°F and summers 68°F. Lake Superior moderates temperatures, keeping summers cooler and delaying the onset of spring warmth.
Duluth’s iconic Aerial Lift Bridge spans the Duluth Ship Canal and leads to Park Point. The city has 92 miles of shoreline along Lake Superior and the Saint Louis River flows through parts of Duluth on its way to Lake Superior.
Economy and Major Employers
Once focused on lumber and shipping along the Great Lakes, Duluth’s economy today revolves around transportation, healthcare, education, tourism, and financial services. According to the Duluth Economic Development Corporation, major local employers include:
- St. Luke’s Hospital
- Essentia Health-St. Mary’s Medical Center
- University of Minnesota Duluth
- Cirrus Design Corporation
- Lake Superior College
- Benedictine Health System
- ALLETE (Minnesota Power)
- St. Louis County
- City of Duluth
- Maurices Corporate Headquarters
Other large employers are in aviation manufacturing, healthcare, education, financial services, retail, and tourism.
Attractions and Landmarks
Some of Duluth’s top attractions include:
Canal Park
This lively district along Lake Superior and the Duluth Harbor has shops, restaurants, museums, and hotels. Attractions include the Great Lakes Aquarium, Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, and Vista Fleet sightseeing cruises.
Glensheen Historic Estate
This sprawling 39-room mansion was built in 1905 by wealthy businessman Chester Adgate Congdon. The mansion is situated on 7.6 acres and features original furnishings and decor. Guided tours are available.
Enger Park and Tower
This scenic city park features gardens, hiking trails, and the Enger Tower overlook, offering panoramic views over Duluth and Lake Superior. The stone Observation Tower was built in 1939.
Lakewalk
Stretching over 7 miles along Lake Superior, this paved pedestrian and bike path connects Canal Park to Brighton Beach. Take in views of the lake, harbor, and ships.
Aerial Lift Bridge
An iconic Duluth landmark, this bridge was built in 1905 and raises vertically to allow ships to pass below. Visitors can watch the bridge lift from an observation deck.
Sports Teams
Duluth supports several professional and college sports teams, including:
Duluth Huskies Baseball
Part of the collegiate Northwoods League, the Huskies play at Wade Stadium in downtown Duluth from May through August. See the team’s website.
Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs Hockey
The Bulldogs ice hockey teams representing the University of Minnesota Duluth compete in NCAA Division I. The men’s team has won multiple NCAA championships.
Other Teams
Other Duluth teams include the Duluth Curling Club, Duluth FC soccer, the Duluth Roller Derby team, and more.
Events and Things to Do
Some of the top annual events in Duluth include:
- Grandma’s Marathon in June
- Tall Ships Duluth early August
- Bayfront Blues Festival in August
- John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon in January
- Bentleyville “Tour of Lights” November-December
Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and more take advantage of the city’s natural setting along Lake Superior. Museums, galleries, performing arts venues, craft breweries, and a vibrant local music scene provide plenty of cultural attractions.
Education
For higher education, Duluth is home to four-year institutions the University of Minnesota Duluth and the College of St. Scholastica, as well as two-year Lake Superior College. The Duluth Public School District serves K-12 students with six high schools, nine middle schools, and 16 elementary schools.
In addition to traditional public schools, Duluth has over 20 public charter schools plus private schools and homeschooling options.
Transportation
Duluth International Airport offers nonstop flights to major hubs plus air cargo services. Major highways include Interstate 35, U.S. Highway 53, and Minnesota State Highway 61. The Duluth harbor remains an important Great Lakes Port. Public transportation is provided by the Duluth Transit Authority.
Living in Duluth
Known for its natural beauty and small town feel on Lake Superior, Duluth offers an excellent quality of life. Residents take full advantage of the outdoor recreational opportunities, arts and cultural scene, historic neighborhoods, and strong local economy. To learn more, visit the city’s Facebook page or official website.