An "Energy City" with a promising future on the outskirts of Minneapolis
Standing tall above train tracks, old-fashioned Main Street pubs and riverfront parks in Elk River, Minnesota, is the city's 1920s-era water tower. It was repainted and restored to its former glory in 2021, red top and all. Today, its one of the area's most famous landmarks, a relic of a time when Elk River's economy was dominated by gravel mining, dairy farming and grist milling alongside the Mississippi and Elk Rivers. Over the last 40 years, the city has grown from a population of 6,000 to 26,000; and families move-in to brand-new subdivisions, with custom designed homes or restored early 20th-century farmhouses. "It's really booming out there," says Nicole Johnson of Realty Group, Inc. At the turn of the millennium, Elk River was nicknamed "Energy City," lauded for its sustainable living practices and emphasis on renewable energy technology. Solar installations, electric car charging stations and a wind turbine can be found throughout town, modern innovations that contrast with Elk River's historic shopping district. "If you're looking for country living with access to amenities, it's the place to be," says Johnson.
Elk River's historic, red-capped water tower stands as a sentinel at the heart of the city.
New subdivisions continue to grow as a sign of Elk River's thriving economic development.
A wind turbine towers over southern Elk River as a sign of its renewable energy goals.
Quaint shops and cozy diners wrapped in murals make their home in downtown Elk River.
1/4
New subdivisions, mid-century homes and restored farmhouses
Elk River spans nearly 44 square miles, and housing is concentrated in the southern half of the city. Prospective buyers will find split-levels, ranch-styles and undeveloped plots of land beside Orono Lake. There are also post-2000s subdivisions with Traditional single-family homes and old farmhouses shaded by trees. "I've sold everything from brand new construction to properties from the early 1900s," says Johnson. With the exception of tightly-packed townhouses in new developments like the Marshes of Trott Brook Farms, lots in the city tend to fall on the larger size. "A lot of my buyers are looking for at least an acre lot," notes Johnson, adding, "They want enough room for their toys—snowmobiles and motorcycles—a lot of people here get toys before kids." When it comes to owning chickens in town, "the City doesn't have any rules," and it's relatively common to find backyard coops. Prices tend to hover between $275,000 and $550,000 for a single-family home, although large-scale custom-built estates on multiple acres can sometimes sell for around $700,000. Elk River, in general, is coveted for its comparative affordability. "You can still get fairly priced houses out here, and you're still getting a little bit more bang for your buck," says Johnson.
Classic split-level homes are a common house type in Elk River's older neighborhoods.
Charming ranch-style homes adorn the streets near downtown Elk River.
Many developments and subdivisions in Elk River have townhomes as residential options.
Custom homes with large driveways and expansive lots make up new development in Elk River.
1/4
Over 14,000 students in Independent School District 728
Kids are incorporated into Independent School District 728, which—with a student enrollment of over 14,000—is one of Minnesota's largest. The district earns an overall B-plus grade from Niche, and its ranked number one in the state for math education. Students also have the option to enroll in German language classes, a reflection of the state's sizeable German population. Residents over the age of 17 can enroll in free classes at the Elk River Learning Lab, which offers ESL and ABE—Adult Basic Education—classes.
Elk River Senior High School ranks second best high school in Sherburne County.
Elk River's Vandenberge Middle School boasts a B- Niche grade.
Elk River's Lincoln Elementary School serves students in grades K-5.
St. Andrew Catholic School in Elk River provides faith-based learning in preschool and K-5.
1/4
Winter weather activities in local parks
Elk River is home to more than 40 public parks and walking trails, some encompassing less than an acre at the center of subdivisions and some spanning several hundred. Beginning in November, folks gather for weekly "Winter Walks" in the Woodlands Trails Regional Park, meeting up to explore the wetlands. At more than 420 acres, it's the city's largest park and it also features an archery range, a natural play area and a golf club. According to Johnson, Minnesotans know how to take advantage of winter weather. "If you live in Elk River, you're either a snowmobiler or you have some kind of winter activity going on. There's ice fishing on the lake…Most Minnesotans, if there's water, there's ice fishing." Furniture and Things Community Event Center has an indoor ice arena, a senior activity center and turf fields for indoor athletic practice, which are especially popular when snow covers the fields at Oak Knoll Athletic Complex and Dave Anderson Athletic Complex. Orono Park, meanwhile, has a splash pad, boat launches and fishing piers used during the warm weather season. It also hosts an event called Elk RiverFest in July.
Woodlands Trails Regional Park in Elk River boasts miles of trails for summer or winter use.
Furniture and Things Community Event Center features ice hockey and skating in Elk River.
Oak Knoll Athletic Complex features expansive fields for baseball and lacrosse in Elk River.
Elk River's Orono Park has an expansive playground, picnic shelter, and swimming beach.
1/4
Big box retail opportunities and a historic downtown
According to Johnson, "You don't have to drive much" to reach big-box amenities in Elk River. Recent years have seen the addition of shopping plazas like Elk Park Center along U.S. Highway 169. There are fast food chains, multiple grocery options—everything from ALDI to Coborn's—and retailers like Menards, a Walmart Supercenter and, according to Johnson, "One of the biggest" Harley Davidson stores in the area. "I've definitely gone up there to go shopping," she says. These recent developments are contrasted with Elk River's historic downtown, which Johnson calls "adorable." There's still a small-town drug store, a "hole-the-wall" community bar and diners that serve American classics. Civil War veterans are buried in Orono Cemetery, and hitching posts still stand from the days before cars.
ALDI serves Elk River as one of many affordable grocery options.
Walmart is Elk River's main big-box retailer for home goods.
Find antiques and other knickknacks at Antiques Downtown in Elk River.
McCoy's Irish Pub is an Elk River favorite for classic American bar fare.
1/4
Weekly farmers markets and outdoor concerts
Community events are year-round in Elk River. There's a downtown farmers market every week; vendors set up outside from June through October and relocate inside to the YMCA on Business Center Drive between November and May. Furniture and Things Community Events Center houses a day-long Makers Market in October, another in May and a Holiday Market closer to Christmastime. On several nights throughout the summer, families can pack lawn chairs and blankets for the free Rivers Edge Commons outdoor concert series. There's also an annual "Night to Unite" in August, an evening when households around the city set up backyard cookouts, pool parties and slip-and-slides open to neighbors.
Downtown Elk River hosts a weekly farmers market from June through October.
The Elk River farmers market relocates to the YMCA monthly from November to May.
Furniture and Things Community Events Center hosts makers markets in Elk River.
Rivers Edge Commons in downtown Elk River hosts night concerts throughout the summer.
1/4
Highway access and the Northstar Commuter Line to Minneapolis
Elk River is intersected by U.S. Highway 169, which Johnson says makes traveling to surrounding lakefront communities relatively simple. Minneapolis is approximately 33 miles from the city along Interstate 94, and some residents rely on the Northstar Commuter Line, which stops in Elk River and travels all the way to Target Field Station just outside of Downtown Minneapolis. Saint Paul is about 40 miles away via U.S. Highway 10, and the Twin Cities' international airport is accessible along Interstate 494. Elk River is home to a North Memorial Health Clinic & Urgent Care, but North Memorial Health in Maple Grove provides more comprehensive options, everything from imaging services to primary care.
Dropping crime rates in Elk River
Between 2021 and 2022, crime in Elk River fell by nearly 20%. Rates here are higher than approximately 54% of United States cities, although violent crimes are by far the least common. Most reports can be attributed to instances of fraud, disorderly conduct and vandalism, according to police department data. In 2022, the city implemented the Neighbors Public Safety Service app, which allows community members to share photos and videos related to public safety. The Police Department also partners with organizations like Neighborhood Watch and Senior Citizen Crime Prevention Awareness.
Written By
Sara Caskey
Photography Contributed By
Jeff Karels
Video By
Jason Jacot
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Farhiya Ali,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Elk River, MN sell after 45 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Elk River, MN over the last 12 months is $410,439, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
IMMEDIATE OCCUPANCY!!! Check out this gorgeous one level home that is ready and waiting for its new Owners. It offers all the features you have come to expect in a new home. Granite countertops, upgraded LVP flooring, ceramic tile master shower with freestanding tub and beautiful knotty alder cabinetry. Enjoy an open concept floorplan with 9’ Ceilings, main vault, 3 bedrooms one level, 2 baths
Immaculate two story set on a stunning 2 acre property with deeded access to the Mississippi River and direct connection to nearby hiking and biking trails. This custom built home showcases pride of ownership and thoughtful detail throughout. The open kitchen features solid surface countertops and stainless steel appliances, flowing into a spacious great room with hardwood floors. The mudroom
Charming, well-maintained 3BR/2BA/1Car rambler on a quaint city lot with fenced backyard—an excellent opportunity for homeownership! Main level features 2 bedrooms, a full bath, bright living/dining area, and an efficient kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Lower level offers a 3rd bedroom, spacious family room, 3⁄4 bath, and separate laundry. Enjoy a covered front veranda and oversized
Welcome to 7097 Quail Ave NE this 3 Bedroom 2 bath desirable end unit offers almost 1300 square feet finished and has been well maintained. New easy care luxurious vinyl plank flooring on most of the main level. Spacious living room with gas fireplace. There is an adjoining dining area plus a dinette in the kitchen. Trendy barn door on the mechanical room for easy access. Nice kitchen with lots
Welcome to easy living in this generously sized detached one-story townhome with a full finished basement. Freshly updated with all new paint and carpet throughout, this home feels clean, bright, and move-in ready from the moment you step inside. The living room features tall, vaulted ceilings and an open, welcoming layout ideal for relaxing or entertaining. The large kitchen is a cook’s delight,
IMMEDIATE OCCUPANCY!!! Check out this gorgeous one level home that is ready and waiting for its new Owners. It offers all the features you have come to expect in a new home. Granite countertops, upgraded LVP flooring, ceramic tile master shower with freestanding tub and beautiful knotty alder cabinetry. Enjoy an open concept floorplan with 9’ Ceilings, main vault, 3 bedrooms one level, 2 baths
This beautifully maintained five-bedroom, four-bathroom home offers a perfect blend of comfort, space, and functionality. From the moment you step inside, you’ll notice the abundance of natural light flowing throughout the home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in every room.The spacious kitchen is designed with both everyday living and entertaining in mind, featuring stainless steel
Affordable opportunity in a fantastic location! Tucked into a peaceful setting with wooded views, this 3-bedroom (non-conforming 3rd bedroom), 2-bath townhouse offers a great opportunity to create a space that truly feels like your own. The main floor walkout living room opens to private green space, adding a sense of calm and privacy. With 2nd floor laundry (featuring a NEW dryer), a 1-car
Rare opportunity to have 75' of level shoreline on Birch Lake, minutes to Elk River-an easy weekend commute from the Twin Cities. Renovated from the studs (in and out), everything is NEW! From pulling into the lot on your Truegrid driveway, to walking up the Trek steps, it's year round living at it's finest. High end appliances and wood stove to an outdoor sauna! 4' black chain link fencing to
Tucked away on a serene .59-acre wooded lot, this stunning 5-bedroom, 4-bath home offers a rare blend of privacy, comfort, and elevated living in the highly sought-after Lafayette Woods neighborhood. The private backyard is a true retreat, surrounded by mature trees and best enjoyed from the charming 3-season porch—perfect for quiet mornings or relaxing evenings. Step onto the inviting front
Looking for a quiet place to call home? You have found it in 10493 182nd Ave so come take a tour. This spacious home has it all! The main floor has everything you need including a primary bedroom suite, a second bedroom, a massive living room and informal dining room space, the family room leading to a large private deck, a full bath and even a laundry closet if stairs are not in your plans for
Welcome to the well maintained, move in ready 4BR, 2BA home on acreage offering space, privacy, and versatility. Features include a newer roof, granite and quartz countertops, flooring upper level and six-panel doors throughout. Remodeled tub and shower upper level. Enjoy the outdoor entertainment area with firepit—perfect for gatherings. Attached 2-car garage plus a 2-car detached garage with
Welcome to your own private escape in the heart of Elk River.Set on over an acre of peaceful, tree-lined serenity, this one-owner home offers the rare combination of space, privacy, and everyday convenience. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the calm, wide-open skies, natural surroundings, and the kind of quiet that’s hard to come by.Inside, you’ll find approximately 2,300 finished
Beautiful traditional two-story home features a welcoming front porch and perfectly situated on a spacious corner lot. The exterior offers minimal maintenance with vinyl siding, irrigation. Backyard includes full vinyl and chain-link fencing, storage shed for lawn equipment, woods. Completely Irrigated garden area ~ with Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and Concord Grapes. Inside, you are
Great opportunity to build some quick equity here! Handyman/Investor Special! This split level home is situated on a great cul-de-sac. It has a nicely sized yard that is partially fenced. Large two tiered deck. 12x14 storage shed is on concrete slab. Extra parking spaces along the side of the garage. The heated garage is perfect for working on vehicles, and having a workshop space. Lower level
Newly remodeled home in Otsego on over 2 acres. Single main level, 2 bedroom 2 bath home. New carpet. Newly painted interior with new kitchen sink and appliances. Main floor laundry. Living room with fireplace. New painted exterior deck and ramp. New carpeted screened in patio area between the deck and house entrance. Large 30x40garage included. No pets allowed. Rent includes the home and garage.
If you are in search of exceptional apartment living with luxurious amenities in a superb location, we welcome you to learn more about Granite Shores.Located on the beautiful Mississippi River in Elk River, MN, Granite Shores is convenient to both St. Cloud and Maple Grove. Our controlled access community has living space with options that include over-sized granite countertops, stainless
Conveniently located near 101 & Highway 10 close to Albertville/St. Michael/Elk River/Monticello. 1 bedroom/ 1 bath apartment & 2 bedroom/2 bath apartment with open concept living area, individual heating/cooling system, in-unit washer/dryer, and covered balcony. Community room with public restroom and well-equipped fitness room.Animal Policy: $300 Non-refundable Pet Fee per cat, $400
The Delta Apartments opening Summer of 2023! Great value! Pricing includes an underground parking spot per unit and high speed internet! Units feature stainless steel appliances, LED lighting, quartz countertops, central air, LVP hardwood flooring, spacious floor plans and 9' ceilings. Building features include secured access through a cell phone application, underground parking, building camera
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Elk River, Dove Tree Apartments places you just minutes from an exciting variety of restaurants, shops, and everything this charming community has to offer. Our award-winning apartment homes are thoughtfully designed, well-maintained, and available in studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom layouts all at a price that fits your lifestyle.As a resident of Dove Tree, youll
We cant wait to welcome you home! Heres what you can expect at Evans Meadows. Our community and all our townhome-style apartments are smoke-free. We allow cats, dogs, and other small animals. We have no breed restrictions upon an approved pet application. Required Fees - Move-in: application fee - $50 per applicant, deposit - $400, & administration Fee - $150. Monthly: rent - fixed cost dependent
The Ridgewood Manor Community offers quality living in a quiet, residential setting. Designed & well-built with space & convenience in mind, you will find Ridgewood Manor fits your needs & lifestyle!1 Garage stall is included with the rent.Utilities included in the rent are Heat, Water, Sewer, and Refuse. Residents are responsible for payment of electricity and optional internet
Welcome to Clear Sky, a newly built affordable rental community in Elk River, MN and a new standard in clean, comfortable and quality apartment living. Enjoy a modern lifestyle with convenient amenities, including underground parking, a spacious party room, community sky deck and laundry rooms on every floor. Clear Sky Apartments boast spacious rooms, big windows, individually controlled heat and
Spacious 1BR, and 2BR apartments featuring a very clean space with carpet flooring. Extra large apartments in a small and quiet building. We are located just off of highway 10 on Proctor Avenue and School Street. Lions Park is just a few steps away and features playground equipment, ball fields, skating, tennis and volley ball, and lighted trails. These spacious floor plans offer lots of
Jackson Hills is an apartment building located in Elk River, an area known for its variety of outdoor and indoor activities, as well as its vibrant art scene. The property is situated next to Elk River High School and is within walking distance of dining and shopping options. Lions Park, a 34-acre space with ball fields, grilling stations, disc golf, picnic areas, and a playground, is also
Huge 2 bedroom 1 bath next to Park! - One of the largest apartments you will find anywhere in Minnesota is available in an updated apartment unit and building complete with elevators, underground parking nestled next to a park. You will enjoy your large living space complete with central air, fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher! Lots of closet space and a balcony. Laundry rooms are
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
