$407,458Average Value$202Average Price per Sq Ft37Homes For Sale
Convenient lifestyle along the Mississippi River
Located in Minnesota’s lake country, Baxter offers a convenient lifestyle along the northern banks of the Mississippi River. “Baxter is a newer, suburban-style city,” says Noah Goedker, Realtor with eXp Realty. “It's seen significant retail, dining, and recreational development, making it a desirable place for families and professionals.” Established as a city in 1939, Baxter began as an agricultural hub and further developed as a result of railroad expansion. It was named after Luther Baxter, an attorney for the Northern Pacific Railroad. Today the city is home to over 9,000 residents and top employers like Ascensus, a financial services company, and Walmart Supercenter contribute around 1,000 jobs to the local workforce. Community go-to spots include Whipple Beach, for lakeside sunbathing during summer, or Oscar Kristofferson Park, for outdoor ice skating in winter. Aside from the annual Lakes Area Music Festival held in neighboring Brainerd, locals rarely have to leave the city limits to have fun. “The Brainerd Lakes Area spans multiple cities and townships, including Baxter,” says Goedker. "This area is a top-tier destination for second-home buyers and vacationers, drawn by the almost 500 lakes, world-class fishing, golf courses, and year-round outdoor recreation.”
The Mississippi River meanders along the southern edge of Baxter, offering a multitude of recreation.
Located in the heart of Minnesota's lake country, Baxter is a destination for homebuyers and tourists alike.
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Ranch styles and ongoing new construction
Low-cost housing, new development and a range of housing options attract buyers to Baxter. “The market in Baxter is on the rise, reflecting the city's expanding appeal,” says Goedker, a third-generation Realtor who has over 7 years of experience selling in the area. “With one in four new listings being new construction, Baxter is rapidly growing to meet demand.” Most of the housing stock here consists of single-family ranch-styles, however the area also includes a mix of condos and townhouses as well as split-levels and two-story Traditionals. With a median sales price of $350,000, homes cost around $50,000 less than the national median. Price points can range from as low as $20,000 for a vacant plot of land to $360,000 for a three-bedroom ranch-style and upwards of $600,000 for a new traditional with lakefront views. Outliers, like properties with expansive acreage, can reach up to $1 million. Multi-family condos and townhouses are primarily clustered in developments like Gracewin Living and Country Club Estates, while new construction is ongoing throughout the city.
Classic ranch-style homes are common throughout Baxter.
On the outskirts of Baxter, new construction homes with modern designs are prevalent.
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Year-round recreation at Oscar Kristofferson Park
Baxter maintains eight parks and outdoors facilities for residents to enjoy. Locals here are accustomed to all four seasons, ranging from hot humid summers to freezing winters with an annual average snowfall of 44 inches. “Whether it's boating in the summer, snowmobiling in the winter, or enjoying the local shops and restaurants year-round, the lifestyle here is second to none,” says Goedker. Oscar Kristofferson Park is centrally located and has sand volleyball courts, a batting cage and baseball fields for the warmer months. Come winter, the park has a hockey rink equipped with a warming house. Whipple Beach is another option on the north side of the city and offers a playground, picnic pavilion and a fishing pier along its sandy beaches. Three Bear Waterpark, also to the north, features waterslides, hot tubs and a lazy river that's open for families to enjoy throughout the year. On the east side, Northland Arboretum provides miles of trails for hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing and nearly 400 acres of naturally preserved land to explore. Crow Wing State Park, to the south, is home to camp sites, a fishing pier, a canoe launch and plenty of scenic views of the Mississippi River.
Three Bear Waterpark in Baxter has waterslides, hot tubs, and a lazy river.
Baxter's Oscar Kristofferson Park is fun for the whole family with an expansive playground and multiple baseball fields.
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The annual Lakes Area Music Festival
In the summer, residents can attend the annual Lakes Area Music Festival in nearby Brainerd, less than 5 miles or a 10-minutes' drive away. Held over a four-week period from July through August, the festival features over 250 musicians and plenty of classical music performances. Concert admission is free, however, donations are welcomed. The festival is highly anticipated and has been a long-standing tradition for over 16 years.
Minutes from Baxter, the annual Lakes Area Music Festival features an array of musical performances and artists every July.
Baxter residents can visit the Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts for many performances during the Lakes Area Music Festival.
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High marks at Brainerd Public Schools
Families in Baxter are zoned for the Brainerd Public School District, which earns a B-plus from Niche. The district serves over 6,000 students and is ranked 69 out of 383 for the best school district in Minnesota. There are six elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Most students attend Brainerd Senior High School, which earns a B-plus rating and offers 16 AP courses for college credit. Private options like Lake Region Christian School and Family of Christ Lutheran School are also available in Baxter. Those interested in higher education can look to Central Lakes College, which awards associate degrees in 48 programs.
Most Baxter students attend Brainerd Senior High School.
Central Lakes College, a comprehensive community and technical college, is only minutes from Baxter.
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Eastside grocers, eateries and Westgate Mall
Baxter does not have a designated downtown area, however, there’s a primary commercial hub on the east side of the city. Most residents shop along Highway 371, which features a mix of name-brand retailers like Walmart Supercenter, Costco Wholesale, Cub Foods and Target. Stores like Dunham's Sports, JoAnn Fabrics and Harbor Freight are available at Westgate Mall along Great River Road. When dining in the area, locals can choose between nationally recognized fast-food chains and locally owned eateries in the retail district. Notable restaurants include 371 Diner, which has served traditional American fare in Baxter since 1998.
Costco Wholesale is a popular shopping destination in Baxter for deals on bulk goods.
The 371 Diner is a local dining favorite in Baxter, offering classic American fare with a retro vibe.
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Nearby healthcare and access to U.S. Route 10
Highways 210 and 371 intersect on the east side of the city, connecting residents to neighboring areas and U.S. Route 10 for trips into the Twin Cities. Jefferson Lines provides public bus rides along Great River Road. When traveling farther outside of Baxter, the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport is 8 miles away. It partners with commercial airlines like Delta for connections to Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport. For healthcare, the Essentia Health-St. Joseph's Medical Center is 4 miles east of the community.
Crime
According to FBI data, the Baxter Police Department’s violent and property crime rates remain well below national figures. Violent crime rose by 60% in 2023, while property crime increased by 14%.
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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.
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On average, homes in Baxter, MN sell after 58 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Baxter, MN over the last 12 months is $359,900, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience serene waterfront living and immerse yourself in nature on sprawling grounds just 10 minutes from all the shopping, dining, and amenities that the Brainerd Lakes Area has to offer! This meticulously maintained and thoughtfully updated home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, two living spaces, a three-season porch, and so much more. In the kitchen, you’ll find abundant cabinet
** To Be Built Home ** Don't miss out on this one level home located in the heart of Baxter, MN!! This home is conveniently located close to walking/biking trails, several local lakes, shopping, medical facilities, schools, local parks and is an easy commute to Baxter or Brainerd. Inside this home will feature 3BR/2BA, 1,504 finished square footage, open concept living space, kitchen features
QUALITY WORKMANSHIP AND BEAUTIFUL WOOD IN THIS BUILDER'S MODEL HOME !!! ALMOST EVERYTHING IS AN UPGRADE COMPARED TO MOST BUILDERS. ALL LIVING SPACE ON ONE LEVEL. NO STAIRS! LOTS OF SPECIAL FEATURES !!!! FEATURES: huge windows, heated floors, vaulted ceilings, real wood finishes, a Kitchen To Die For -- including custom alder cabinets with soft close, granite counter-tops, under cabinet lighting,
Perfectly situated in the heart of Baxter, this beautifully finished new construction home offers the ideal blend of comfort and convenience. Ideally located just minutes from Whipple Beach, convenient shopping, scenic walking trails, and all the local amenities, this home offers the perfect blend of relaxation and everyday convenience. Step inside to a bright, spacious interior designed for
** To Be Built Home ** Don't miss out on this one level home located in the heart of Baxter, MN!! This home is conveniently located close to walking/biking trails, several local lakes, shopping, medical facilities, schools, local parks and is an easy commute to Baxter or Brainerd. Inside this home will feature 3BR/2BA, 1,504 finished square footage, open concept living space, kitchen features
Welcome to this new construction home offering true main floor living with an inviting open floor plan. Featuring 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this residence combines comfort and convenience in one ideal package. The bright and airy living area is anchored by a cozy gas fireplace, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. A well-designed kitchen and dining space flow seamlessly together,
Exceptional Baxter Property on 3.65 Acres!Discover comfort, space, and convenience with this beautifully updated 5BR/2BA home, perfectly situated near parks, schools, lakes, trails, shopping, and top-tier medical facilities. Outside, enjoy: Expansive 3.65-acre lot with mature trees and beautifully landscaped grounds. Large patio area ideal for entertaining. Paved driveway and fantastic curb
HIDDEN IN THE PINES IS THIS STUNNING BUILDER"S MODEL HOME !! ALL LIVING SPACE ON ONE LEVEL. NO STAIRS! BEAUTIFUL LOT !!! FEATURES: In-floor heat, vaulted ceilings, real wood finishes, a kitchen to die for-- custom alder cabinets, under cabinet lighting, granite counter-tops, pounded copper sink, large pantry, huge island and more. Mater Bath has large soaking tub and walk-in shower. Almost 1900
Welcome to your New Home in Baxter. Presenting the "Willow," a charming 1-level home designed with convenience and comfort in mind. Say goodbye to stairs with this zero-step 2-bedroom home with a 2-stall garage. Optional 3- stall garage and sunroom, and corner gas fireplace are available all thoughtfully crafted for seamless living on the main floor. At Thomas Allen Homes, we believe that
** Finished New Construction ** Don't miss out on this one level home located in the heart of Baxter, MN!! This home is conveniently located close to walking/biking trails, several local lakes, shopping, medical facilities, schools, local parks/soccer fields and is an easy commute to Baxter or Brainerd. Inside this home will feature 3BR/2BA, 2,056 finished square footage, open concept living
Unlock the potential of this highly visible ±22 acre commercial parcel located along the thriving Hwy 371 corridor, located just north of the Brainerd International Raceway and just south of Dunmire's on the Lake. This property offers exceptional flexibility for a variety of commercial uses. Ideal for office, retail, storage, warehouse, or outdoor display, this site features outstanding highway
Great commercial sites available in growing Baxter, just off highway 371 near Jack Pine Brewery and Boulder Taphouse and Arrowwood Lodge. More land/lots available.
Looking for great visibility and access in Baxter? This lot has a fantastic location near the Arboretum, West Gate Mall and the movie theater. Call to schedule your showing today!
Lofts on Novotny Apartment Homes are nestled in the heart of Baxter, Minnesota, offering convenient access to shopping, dining, and recreational activities.Enjoy a contemporary living experience with state-of-the-art amenities, including a club house, fitness center, community spaces, and well-maintained facilities.Lofts on Novotny provides spacious and well-designed living spaces, perfect for
Pinehurst Apartments are brand new, class A apartments for rent in Baxter, Minnesota! We offer private heated attached garages, large kitchens with islands, central air conditioning and heat, luxury plank flooring, walk-in closets, in-home laundry, and a private balcony or patio!
Timberline Heights in Baxter, MN, is brand new and built for comfort, making daily life easy with in-unit laundry, elevator, and warm underground parking. Enjoy a community loaded with features, including an amazing outdoor swimming pool, a pickleball court, a private theater room, and practical perks like the on-site dog wash and car wash stations.
The apartments at Pine Grove Estates feature open concept living rooms, kitchens and dining areas with 1 and 2 bedrooms. A community room, library, fitness room and on-site laundry facilities make living at Pine Grove Estates comfortable and enjoyable.Pine Grove Townhomes feature 2 bedroom/1 bathroom, 2 bedroom/2-1/2 bathroom or 3 bedroom/2-1/2 bathroom with attached
New construction single level luxury living in prime Baxter location close to schools, shopping, trails and lakes area activities!Executive level finishes including: custom cabinetry, tons of storage, 3 car heated garage with epoxy floors, LVP floors throughout ,custom fireplace, private wooded backyard with irrigation system and privacy partition fences. Granite tops and
New construction executive leasing in Baxter! One level luxury homes close to schools, shopping, and Paul Bunyan Trail access on the same street! (Exact home color exterior is Naval blue with white trim, interior finishes are the same on each home). Available April or May!3 bed 2 bath with heated 3 car garage with epoxy floors. LVP flooring throughout with granite tops and tile baths.
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