$422,160Average Value$202Average Price per Sq Ft22Homes For Sale
Fruitful history in the Minnesota River Valley
A part of the Minnesota River Valley, the Twin Cities suburb of Apple Valley offers prospective buyers a residential lifestyle with access to nearby urban amenities. The city’s name is a nod to Apple Valley, California, which was derived from early Native American settlers who called the area 'apple orchard' in the Dakota language. One of the first developers, Orrin Thompson, also adds to the apple lore, having planted an apple tree in the front yard of every home he built throughout the late 1960s. The city was incorporated in 1969 and rapid growth followed as the city shed its agricultural roots for more industrial endeavors. Today, Apple Valley is home to nearly 60,000 people and major employers like GF Building Flow Solutions, a global trade corporation, which contributes around 1,000 jobs to the area's workforce. Despite its increase in size, Apple Valley has maintained its community-oriented atmosphere through annual traditions like the Apple Valley Freedom Days event. “Apple Valley is family-friendly and community-focused,” says Nicole Junker, Realtor with EXP Realty on the Pemberton Homes Team. “The city prioritizes safety and invests heavily into updating city wide amenities, like fire stations and ADA-accessible park equipment.” Popular attractions like the Minnesota Zoo and the Lebanon Hills Regional Park add to the area's culture, and the city's A-rated school district ensures that future generations of Apple Valley are ready to carry-on this city's fruitful legacy in the years to come.
Apple Valley's water tower overlooks Quarry Park's baseball and soccer fields.
Apple Valley Municipal Center also hosts many events such as the local farmer's market.
GF Flow Solutions is one of Apple Valley's major employers.
Apple Valley is home to the Minnesota Zoo, featuring thousands of species of animals.
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Starter homes and lakeside estates
“The real estate market in Apple Valley is stable,” says Junker, with over 13 years of selling experience in the area. “Homes are generally more affordable here, but there’s been continuous appreciation in value over the years.” Most homes were constructed in the late 1900s and range from affordable starter homes and investment properties to upscale luxury estates. The housing stock is comprised of ramblers, split-levels and two-story Traditional styles. As for new construction options, "There is not too much open land for residential development in Apple Valley." adds Junker. "Luckily, there are areas near by that have room for expansion." Established single-family homes are the primary housing type however, townhouses and condos are also available here. With a median sales price of $400,000, homes in Apple Valley cost about $40,000 less than the average property in the Minneapolis metro area. For example, prices can range from as low as $80,000 for a condo unit to upwards of a million for an expansive new Traditional with lakefront views.
Apple Valley's lakesides are lined with many ranch style homes.
Orin Thompson is credited with jump starting Apple Valley's housing boom in the 1960s.
Newer developments in Apple Valley feature numerous two story homes.
Row style townhomes are popular throughout Apple Valley.
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A-rated education at District 196
Apple Valley families are zoned to attend Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Independent School District No. 196, which earns an overall A rating from the review site Niche. The district has 19 elementary schools, six middle schools and five high schools, and is recognized by Niche as the second-best school district in Dakota County. Most students attend Apple Valley Senior High School, which earns a B-plus rating and serves more than 1800 students. Private school options like Christian Heritage Academy and Good Shepherd Lutheran School are also available here.
Apple Valley Senior High School
Falcon Ridge Middle School provides education in the neighborhood of
Apple Valley.
Greenleaf Elementary serves grades K through 5.
School of Environmental Studies
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Local parks and the Minnesota Zoo
Apple Valley has 49 neighborhood parks and over 900 acres of outdoor space. The city experiences all four seasons, with mild summers and cold winters averaging 45 inches of snow per year. The Minnesota Zoo is located on the city’s northside and features over 4,500 animals and various exhibits spanning its 485 acres. It’s also known as Minnesota's largest environmental education center and takes pride in offering 28% free or reduced admission. Lebanon Hills Regional Park is also located to the north in nearby Eagan and is the largest greenspace in Dakota County. The park is popular year-round and offers a range of seasonal activities, from hiking and swimming to sledding and snowshoeing. Johnny Cake Ridge Park is split into two sections — east and west — and is located at the city’s center. The east side is associated with Highland Elementary School, while the west side partners with Eastview High. Amenities include two playgrounds, soccer fields, baseball fields and tennis and pickleball courts. The outdoor Family Aquatic Center is also located here. Open seasonally, the center features lap lanes, four waterslides and a lazy river. The public Valleywood Golf Course is tucked in the northeast corner of Apple Valley and features an 18-hole course equipped with junior tees for golfers of all skill levels.
Lebanon Hills Regional Park is a popular beach and recreation area near Apple Valley..
Cobblestone Lake Park is a lakeside park in Apple Valley.
Some areas in Apple Valley have dual paths, one for walkers and another for bicycles.
You'll often find kids playing pond hockey in Apple Valley.
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Annual events and Apple Valley Freedom Days
Apple Valley hosts various events throughout the year. In September, visitors can head to the Minnesota Zoo for the annual Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, which features a costume contest, pumpkin carving and light displays. In November, locals can attend the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Apple Valley Municipal Center. Visitors can enjoy cookies, apple cider and caroling to start the holiday season. The Apple Valley Farmers’ Market is also held here on Saturdays from June through October. The annual Apple Valley Freedom Days is in June. This week-long event begins on June 28th and hosts patriotic activities until July 4th. The festival starts with a car show and concludes with a parade and fireworks display on the final day. Throughout the week, visitors enjoy carnival rides, food trucks and a marketplace of local vendors. The Freedom Days are highly anticipated and have been a longstanding tradition for over 50 years.
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is a highlight of the season.
Bask in the glow of more than 5,000 carved pumpkins at the Jack o Lantern Spectacular.
The Apple Valley farmers market is a family friendly event.
The Apple Valley farmers market also has entertainers serenading the crowd.
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Shopping in downtown Apple Valley
Most residents shop in downtown Apple Valley, which features name brand grocers like Walmart, Cub Foods and Fresh Thyme Market. “Apple Valley is unique in its land mass, which is very square and compact,” says Sheryl Petrashek, Realtor with RE/MAX Results. “The shopping district is located right in the center and along a central corridor,” making it easy to access. The area is also home to big-box retailers like Target and Home Depot. For additional shopping options, notable commercial hubs like the Mall of America and the Twin Cities Premium Outlets, are located within a 10-mile drive to the north. Dining options throughout the city range from fast-food chains to a diverse selection of locally owned eateries situated throughout the city.
Apple Valley has a large variety of shopping choices.
Osaka is Apple Valley's premiere Japanese restaurant.
The Mall of America is a giant 4-level mall with hundreds of stores.
Twin Cities Premium Outlet Center is just a short drive from Apple Valley.
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Nearby healthcare and access to I-35E
Cedar Avenue runs through the heart of Apple Valley, connecting residents to U.S. Highway 77 and U.S. Interstate-35E. Public bus routes are provided by the Metro Transit bus system, which operates from the Apple Valley Transit Station downtown. When traveling farther, the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport is 13 miles north. For healthcare, the Fairview Ridges Hospital is just 4 miles from city center.
Crime
On average, Apple Valley experiences lower crime rates than Minneapolis. In 2023, the Apple Valley Police Department reported 102 violent incidents per 100,000 individuals. Comparatively, the Minneapolis Police Department reported 182 incidents per 100,000 people during 2023.
Written By
Christian Slater
Photography Contributed By
Brandon Rowell
Video By
Adam Barkley
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Karen Schlaefer,
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 Apple Valley, MN sell after 79 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Apple Valley, MN over the last 12 months is $399,245, down 21% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This well-designed home in Apple Valley, MN offers 1150 sq. ft. of living space across two floors. The property features 3 bedrooms, including a generous 160 sq. ft. primary bedroom, and 2 bathrooms. The ground floor spans 560 sq. ft., while the upper level provides 590 sq. ft. of space. The home's layout includes an open-concept kitchen and living room, creating a spacious feel. The kitchen
Our new Nolan floorplan offers many characteristics including a spacious main level living design with an open kitchen that includes an oversized center island, staggered height cabinetry, and quartz countertops! There are 2 additional bedrooms, a flex room and a loft in the upper level. The home comes with a Stainless Steel Appliance Package featuring a counter-depth refrigerator. Luxury vinyl
Welcome to this beautifully updated property! The home boasts a neutral color paint scheme, providing a calming and modern atmosphere. The kitchen is equipped with all stainless steel appliances, offering a sleek and contemporary look. Step outside to enjoy the spacious deck, perfect for entertaining or relaxing. The fenced in backyard provides privacy and a safe space for outdoor activities. The
This is a wonderfully updated 2 bed, 2 bath townhome. New stainless steel appliances, counters, bathroom updates, flooring and paint throughout. Huge private patio in front and beautiful pond views in back. Easy commuter access to the metro, plus everything Apple Valley has to offer. It's ready to move right in. Make this one your new home.
Buyer/agent to verify all measures--------------------------Don’t miss this beautifully maintained 3 bed, 2 bath, 2-car garage home with an unfinished basement, lower level, 1 bedroom, and one bathroom. End-unit townhome located in the desirable Valley Meadows community! Featuring nearly 1,500 sq ft, this home offers a bright and open layout with a main floor bedroom, spacious loft, and
Sought-after end unit with stunning views of Cobblestone Lake. Your guests will enjoy easy access as the guest parking is conveniently located right next door! The home features new carpet and fresh paint throughout. The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, a breakfast bar, and ample cabinet space. Step out onto the balcony off the dining room to enjoy the lake view. Full-length
This stunning property sits in a beautiful wooded setting. If youre looking for serenity in your surroundings, yet convenience to major roadways, then you are looking for Palomino East Apartments to call your new home!Utilities included in the rent are Water, Sewer, and Refuse. Residents are responsible for payment of heat, electricity and optional internet or cable tv.Renter's
Fully updated and move-in ready! This spacious home features brand-new appliances, fresh paint, new carpet, and a recently cleaned HVAC system (last month). Includes a 2-car garage plus driveway parking. Bright kitchen with center island, open living spaces, and generous bedrooms. Tenant pays all utilities except garbage. Prime Apple Valley location close to parks, schools, and shopping!
Open concept living + spacious master suite - Take luxury living to the next level with a variety of different open concept floor plans to choose from, quality living, convenience, desired location, and amazing amenities to enjoy year round.**Unit availability is subject to change due to high demand. Please contact the leasing office for current availability and pricing.**
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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.
