$405,756Average Value$202Average Price per Sq Ft42Homes For Sale
Living big along the lakes in Minnesota
Named after the largest lake within the community, this booming city about 40 miles northwest of Minneapolis has exploded in size since 1990, having almost doubled since 2000 alone. “We’re close enough to the cities for people who need to work or want to visit, but we’re far enough out that we still have a small-town feel,” says Mayor Paul Knier. Big Lake combines lakefront-living with a rural charm and nearby urban conveniences. Homebuyers with families will find Big Lake has a lot to offer, from sunbathing at Lakeside Park to off-leash dog areas at Lions Park. “We’re consistently voted among the top five safest cities in Minnesota,” Knier says. While many buyers are attracted to life by the lake, residents here are welcomed by a small-town feel maintained through community events like the annual Spud Festival and local farmers markets held throughout the year. The city also values veterans, with a strong sense of appreciation for them evident at Freedom Rock in Lakeside Park. And with both the Metro Transit and Northstar Commuter Rail accessible at Big Lake Station, day trips into the Twin Cities can be made in around an hour.
Big Lake and Lake Mitchell lie in the heart of the city.
Many newer homes in Big Lake feature three-car garages with two floors of living space.
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Lakefront ranch styles and new construction
The real estate market in Big Lake is very competitive, with well-priced homes getting offers within days and more than half selling over the list price. “Big Lake is a desirable city with a small town feel that offers a mix of homes from lots on acreage, lake homes and new construction” says Jessica Moren, Realtor with Keller Williams and representative with Homes for Heroes in Big Lake since 2018. Big Lake features a variety of home styles ranging from traditional ranch-styles and newly constructed craftsman to multi-family townhouses. While most of the homes were constructed after 1990, about one-third of the housing inventory was built prior, offering an entry-level price point in an otherwise tough market of newer construction. Older development can be found near the city core and newer housing is on its outskirts. Big Lake offers subdivision options from lakefront living in Shadywood Park and The Shores Of Lake Mitchell to newer construction in Pine Crest Estates and townhouses in Lake Street Cottages. With a median sales price of $311,750, homes here range from the high $100,000s for a one-bedroom rambler to upwards of $800,000 for a four-bedroom ranch-style with immediate lake access. Waterfront homes with private lake access are subject to higher price points here. Homes often feature attached garages and are fronted with well-maintained mid-sized lots.
New traditional craftsman-style homes beautify the neighborhoods of Big Lake.
Charming ranch-style homes are common in older neighborhoods in Big Lake.
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Sunbathe in the sand at Lakeside Park
When seeking time outdoors, Big Lake residents capitalize on their proximity to three named lakes and more than 20 parks featuring over 320 acres. Big Lake, the namesake and largest of the lakes features a boat launch and wooden pier. Residents often visit Lakeside Park, where children can climb on the jungle-gym, while adults sunbathe on the sandy beaches during the warmer months. Or pay respects at Big Lake Freedom Rock, which acts as a representative piece for each of the branches of the military. Attached to Big Lake by a narrow channel is Lake Mitchell, which covers about 170 acres and has a boat launch of its own. Dog owners can head to Big Lake Township’s Lions Park, which features two fenced-in areas for off-leash play separated by dog size. Baseball enthusiasts can head to Lake Ridge Park for pick-up games on the baseball field, or enjoy an on-the-go meal on the wooden picnic tables.
Hours of play can be spent at Lakeside Park on the shores of Big Lake.
Lakeside Park has an expansive sandy swimming beach on the shores of Big Lake.
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Annual events and the year-round Farmers Market
Residents of Big Lake come together for city-wide events throughout the year, particularly in the summer. Big Lake is known for Spud Fest, a four-day event held on the last full weekend of June every year. The festival has been a citywide tradition since 1972 and was created to foster a strong sense of community and provide funding for summer youth programs. “Spud Fest is our summer festival and a lot of people work really hard to make it as great as it can be,” Knier says. “We have a parade and there’s a big, huge carnival that everyone comes out for.” Or check-out the Big Lake Farmers Market, which is held at Lakeside Park on Wednesdays from June through August from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Residents can listen to live music, visit booths held by local businesses and enjoy meals from food trucks. While the Winter Farmers Market is held on the third Saturday of the month at City Hall from November through April from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Big Lake residents enjoy a sense of community in their city.
Situated minutes from the Mississippi River, this community delivers city convenience with rural charm.
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Shopping at Big Lake Town Square
Big Lake offers a growing downtown area along Jefferson Boulevard, which is lined with walkable shopping and dining destinations. “We’ve had some growth downtown in recent years, but it’s really just getting going,” Knier says. Residents can shop at Big Lake Town Square, which features Coborn’s Marketplace, MNW Retail Outlet and Glenbrook Building Supply. While name-brand department stores, like Target, Marshalls and The Home Depot are located in neighboring Monticello, about 5 miles away or a 10-minute drive over the Mississippi River. When dining in the area, locals can visit Willy's on the Water for daily specials, outdoor dining and scenic views of Big Lake. Or check out the family-owned Lake Cafe for a homestyle meal and a wide menu of classic American fare. For nitro cold brew coffee, IPAs and barrel-aged stouts, head to Lupulin Brewing and enjoy a variety of on-tap beer at their Big Lake Taproom. Lupulin has a comfortable area that allows people to spread out enough to bring their dogs along for the beer-centered outing.
Big Lake residents can shop at Coborn's Marketplace for all their grocery needs.
Fresh produce, baked goods, and deli items are available at Coborn's Marketplace in Big Lake.
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Education at Big Lake Public Schools
Children in the city are served by the Big Lake Public School district. Students in Big Lake can attend schools like Independence Elementary, Big Lake Middle and Big Lake Senior High School, which have received ratings of B-minus, B-minus and C-plus from the educational review site, Niche. Independence Elementary School was recognized as a STEM School of Excellence by the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA) for both the 2022 and 2023 school years. Big Lake Middle School offers The Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Program in which students use project-based learning techniques to explore a variety of Allied Arts courses, such as debate, creative writing and current events. Students conduct their secondary education at Big Lake High School, which has an award-winning college and career readiness program. “We have an apprentice partnership between our schools and our business community, so students can do an apprenticeship in their high school their junior or senior year,” Knier says. “They’ll work during the day and get credit at school.”
Big Lake Middle School serves area students in grades 6-8.
Independence Elementary School serves area students in grades 3-5.
Big Lake Senior High School serves area students in grades 9-12.
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Easy access to I-94 and CentraCare Health Hospital
Residents in Big Lake rely on Jefferson Boulevard and Lake Street South for easy access to U.S. Interstate-94 and neighboring areas like Bailey and Monticello. When seeking public transportation, locals can hop on the Metro Transit bus at the park-and-ride Big Lake Station, or grab a seat on the Northstar Commuter Rail (Route 888) to navigate into downtown Minneapolis by train. Those interested in traveling further outside the community are 45 miles or about an hour drive from Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport. For healthcare, residents are only 4 miles from CentraCare Health Hospital in Monticello.
Highway 10 is a major transportation thoroughfare that runs through Big Lake.
The Northstar Line provides commuter train service from Big Lake to downtown Minneapolis.
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Written By
Tina Davis
Photography Contributed By
Jeff Karels
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Monique Antony-Peterson,
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.
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On average, homes in Big Lake, MN sell after 36 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Big Lake, MN over the last 12 months is $361,740, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
WOW!! Check out this newly completed executive slab-on-grade rambler. Tucked away on a private 2.5-acre wooded lot in Pine Crest Estates West, offering convenient one-level living surrounded by peaceful natural beauty. The open-concept design is filled with natural light from large windows that capture serene wooded views. Architectural details include custom cabinetry, luxury vinyl plank
If you’ve been searching for a home that truly has it all, welcome home. Nestled on 2.5 beautifully landscaped acres, this custom-built rambler offers the perfect blend of comfort, function, and unforgettable character.Step inside to an open-concept floor plan filled with natural light, gorgeous hardwood floors, custom built-ins, and thoughtfully designed living spaces. The main level
Need space to build, store, and create? This 2BR/1BA home on 5.6 acres is set up for hobbyists, contractors, downsizers or anyone who needs serious workspace. The heated oversized garage is ready to go with a 10-ft door, air lines, and welding hookups, plus a loft and additional storage. A separate 30x40 pole barn with wood stove gives you even more room for projects, equipment, or a home-based
Secluded, spotless, and move-in ready—this wooded 2.5-acre split-entry offers the privacy of a country setting just minutes from Big Lake amenities.Tucked beneath a canopy of mature trees, this exceptionally well-maintained home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, fresh interior paint, updated mechanicals, and bright, comfortable living spaces. Recent improvements include a new roof, septic
Comfort, convenience, and carefree living come together in this beautifully maintained one-level condo in Big Lake. Designed for easy, low-maintenance living, this inviting home offers an ideal combination of functional space, modern updates, and peaceful surroundings. Whether you're looking to simplify your lifestyle, downsize without compromise, or enjoy the convenience of one-level living,
Welcome home to this spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath split featuring vaulted ceilings and an open, inviting layout. The oversized primary bedroom provides plenty of room to unwind and includes a generous walk-in closet. Step outside to enjoy the deck and fully fenced yard, offering great space for relaxing, entertaining, pets, or play.Car enthusiasts, hobbyists, or anyone looking for extra
Privacy for a luxury home(s), builder-development, or land-investment for the future, this unique 11.20-acre property offers beautiful opportunities. Nestled among mature woods with approximately 200 feet of frontage on Blacks Lake, the land showcases rolling terrain, mature hardwoods, abundant wildlife, and scenic water views.For those looking to build a custom home, this is an opportunity
Nestled on 3.09 densely wooded acres, this executive-style custom walkout rambler offers the rare combination of complete privacy, remarkable craftsmanship, and a setting designed for those who appreciate nature & recreation. Wooded trails meander throughout the property for walking or riding adventures.Nearly 3500SF of living space. Thoughtfully designed with all living facilities
Welcome to your brand new townhome! We only have a few units left in this development! This spacious two story townhome intersects quality and affordability. Bathed in natural light, this home has 3 bedrooms on the upper level along with laundry and primary bedroom en suite with TWO walk in closets. The main level is open concept and contemporary, with access to a pvt patio. The kitchen features
WOW!! Check out this newly completed executive slab-on-grade rambler. Tucked away on a private 2.5-acre wooded lot in Pine Crest Estates West, offering convenient one-level living surrounded by peaceful natural beauty. The open-concept design is filled with natural light from large windows that capture serene wooded views. Architectural details include custom cabinetry, luxury vinyl plank
Nestled on a wooded lot, this stunning colonial-style home offers the perfect blend of classic charm, modern upscale renovations, and an absolute paradise of an outdoor living space. The front porch acts as the welcoming face of the home. Step through the front door into a bright foyer that instantly showcases the home’s fine craftsmanship, featuring gleaming hardwood floors, soaring high
**ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COMING SOON!**Tons of space, inside and out! Extensively updated! This home offers the perfect blend of comfort, flexibility, and privacy in an incredible location just ½ mile from town!The bright, open main level offers generous living spaces, a beautiful kitchen, four bedrooms, dedicated office space, main-level laundry, and a standout primary suite with
There’s room to spread out at this spacious Big Lake home, where the .33-acre corner lot is one of its best features. Set on a no-outlet road, the fully fenced, flat backyard offers tons of usable space for play, pets, entertaining and more, surrounded by white vinyl privacy fencing and complete with a back deck. Another bonus is the proximity to Sanford Select Acres Park featuring a playground,
Vacant lot available at an affordable price of just $29,900! Located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac just one block from Big Lake.This nearly 1/4-acre lot offers westerly sunset views and two sides already fenced. Natural gas, electricity, city water and sewer are available at the street. Buyer to confirmBuyers/builders should be aware that the property is located near a wetland
Located in beautiful and lush Big Lake, MN, Goldenrod Glen will bring affordable, independent living to households with at least one adult 55 years or older. Our spacious 1 and 2-bedroom homes are designed with your comfort in mind.
Sherburne Park Estates puts you close to everything Big Lake has to offer, including shopping, restaurants, parks and more. Conveniently located near Highway 10, these updated apartments feature modern stone countertops and access to a new patio and grilling area, perfect for relaxing and entertaining. Pet-friendly and welcoming both dogs and cats, this community also offers short-term lease
Enjoy luxury living with convenience in the heart of everything you need; schools, shopping, recreational living and only blocks from the light rail. Town Square has studios, 1 & 2 bedrooms with many large open floor plans to choose from. Inside your new home are stainless steel appliances, a center island, rich interior finishes and your very own walk out patio, or screened in porch for privacy.
Thoughtfully designed 1, 2 and 3 bedroom suites * Fully equipped kitchens, including self-cleaning range, refrigerator, and dishwasher * Air Conditioner in each suite * Patio / Balcony * Garages (optional) * Laundry on-site! Ashbury Apartment Homes is conveniently located off Hwy 10 * Across the street from Big Lake Schools * Playground on-site * Walking distance to Stores * Walking distance to
Marketplace Crossing is the newest community in Big Lake, Minnesota. Newer construction one-, two-, and three-bedroom affordable and market rate apartments. We offer brand new, spacious units complete with ample storage and modern finishes. We offer many community amenities, such as on-site laundry facilities, off-street parking, garages (available for an additional fee), and a playground.
Welcome to Northern Star Apartments. We are conveniently located near the North Star Station. Our on-site management will meet your needs in a friendly and efficient manner. Northern Star has 76 apartments.
Beautiful 5 bedroom 2 bathroom 3 car garage home with an open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, and a deck off of the kitchen overlooking the backyard.This home is in a wonderful location in Big Lake just 4 minutes away from I-94, in a new housing subdivision, safe neighborhood with good schools.Link to video walkthrough:Requirements:Gross household income $7500 per month
Freshly updated 3 bedroom townhome in Big Lake with 1,400 square feet of comfortable living space.New wood look vinyl plank flooring runs through the main level, and fresh light paint keeps every room bright and clean. The kitchen has plenty of oak cabinetry, a gas range, and a breakfast bar that opens to the dining and living area, so cooking and hanging out happen in the same space.
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