Is Ely, MN Safe to Buy? Home Safety Score 78/100
Score 78/100 · Risk: moderate-high · Water Grade B · Updated 2026-05-03
Ely has moderate-to-high risk. Several risk factors require careful evaluation.
Data: EPA SDWIS, FEMA NFIP, Census ACS, EPA Radon Zones Last verified: 2026-05-03
Based on current cost data for Ely, remediation budgets fall toward the lower tier of the equity-share scale — a figure that positions safety upgrades as a manageable planning item rather than a significant financial burden for most homeowners.
What is a home safety score?
The home safety score (0-100) combines multiple environmental risk factors into a single number: water quality grade, lead contamination levels, flood zone exposure, radon risk, and air quality. A higher score means lower overall risk. The score helps homebuyers compare neighborhoods at a glance. Ely scores 78/100 with a "moderate-high" risk level.
Remediation Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Ely:
Cost ranges are estimates based on national averages. Actual costs vary by property. Get 3 quotes before proceeding.
Per-ZIP Home Safety Scores
Safety scores vary across Ely's 1 ZIP codes.
| ZIP Code | Score | Grade | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55731 | 78 | B | View report → |
Home Safety Overview
Ely, Minnesota has moderate-to-high risk for homebuyers. The average home safety score is 78/100 across 1 ZIP codes. Several risk factors require careful evaluation during due diligence.
Safety Score Card
A composite view of Ely's key risk indicators:
| Risk Factor | Value | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Water Quality | Grade B (78/100) | Low risk |
| Lead Risk | 0.0050 mg/L | Low risk |
| Flood Risk | 1% in flood zones | Low risk |
| Radon | Zone 2 (Moderate) | Moderate risk |
| Air Quality | AQI 0 (Unknown) | Low risk |
Cost to Fix: Remediation Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Ely:
| Component | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Radon | $400 |
| Filtration | $300 |
| Flood Insurance | $1K |
| Total (low estimate) | $950 |
| Total (mid estimate) | $2K |
| Total (high estimate) | $3K |
Cost ranges are estimates based on national averages and local data. Actual costs vary by property condition, contractor, and scope of work. Get 3 quotes before proceeding.
Ely vs. Nearby Minnesota Cities
How Ely's overall risk compares to similar cities in Minnesota:
| City | Water Grade | Lead ZIPs Over Limit | Flood Claims | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ely | B | 0 | 2 | 3,258 |
| Milaca | B | 0 | 8 | 3,263 |
| Eagle Lake | C | 0 | 0 | 3,268 |
| Saint Clair | D | 0 | 8 | 3,268 |
Homebuyer Safety Checklist for Ely
Before purchasing a home in Ely, Minnesota, complete these checks:
Water Quality
- Request the latest Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from the water utility
- Test tap water for lead, bacteria, and nitrates ($20-$50 for DIY kit)
Radon
- Conduct a radon test ($15-$30 for short-term kit, $150-$300 for professional)
- Ely is in Radon Zone 2 (Moderate risk) — testing is strongly recommended
Flood Risk
- Check the property's FEMA flood zone at msc.fema.gov
- Ask about flood history and past insurance claims
Lead Paint & Pipes
- For homes built before 1978: request lead paint disclosure
- For homes built before 1986: inspect plumbing for lead solder and pipes
- 72% of Ely homes built before 1986 — pipe inspection recommended
General
- Check for carbon monoxide detectors on every level
- Inspect for visible mold, water stains, or musty odors
- Verify the home's connection to a regulated public water system
Data Sources
- Water quality: EPA SDWIS
- Lead: EPA Lead and Copper Rule
- Flood: FEMA NFIP
- Radon: EPA Radon Zones
- Air quality: EPA AirNow
- Home values: U.S. Census Bureau ACS B25077
- Remediation costs: National cost model (EPA, Census, FEMA data)
Updated daily.
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