$290,927Average Value$185Average Price per Sq Ft80Homes For Sale
Vacation land for the Twin Cities and beyond
A 14,000-person lake town known as Minnesota’s vacationland, Brainerd is where many Minnesotans own second homes, and where an increasing number are opting to stay full-time. With remote work leading to increased flexibility, more and more Minnesotans have moved to Brainerd. The city's outdoor lifestyle and direct access to both the Whitefish Chain of Lakes and the Gull Chain of Lakes make it appealing. As do the lake's luxury resorts which feature both fine dining options and championship golf courses. The lakes also offer some of the state’s best fishing, which is a popular year-round activity here. Lifelong resident and Realtor Adam Kalenberg says the city’s also popular with 'snowbirds' — the term used to describe people who live in the warmer southern states during the winter and who migrate to the Midwest for the summers. “If you can afford it, winter in Florida or Arizona and summer up here – that’s everyone’s dream,” he says. “I always say this is vacation land for the Twin Cities, but we have buyers coming in from all over the country,” says Realtor Michael Fish. “Over half my sales in the last few years have been to out-of-state buyers.” Despite Minnesota’s cold winters, Kalenberg wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. “I can go visit Vail or Montana, but for all-around lifestyle and affordability, I’d pick Minnesota,” he says. “It’s a great place to live and work. If I were looking at moving to Minnesota, I would definitely recommend checking out the Brainerd Lakes area.”
The Whitefish and Gull Chain of Lakes in Brainerd offers lakeside living and year-round recreation.
Luxury resorts in Brainerd reside next to scenic lakes and pristine golf courses.
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Lakefront homes in Brainerd’s growing luxury market
Brainerd’s average home value is $350,000, which is about $200,000 below the national average. Brainerd offers everything from modest bungalows and ranch-style homes to New Traditional houses and luxury lakefront mansions, which has become a growing market. “Many come here to buy their dream vacation home,” Fish says. “For us, a $1.5 million listing used to take a year, or two or three years to sell. Now, that listing will sell in 30 to 60 days,” Kalenburg says. “We’ve seen people build million-dollar garages for their toys. They build their homes, and then they want an indoor pickleball court and a golf simulator, that sort of thing. People have been investing in some large significant homes being built on the lakes, and we didn’t see that 10 or 15 years ago.” Fish goes on to explain that: “The Brainerd, Baxter, and Crosslake area in Minnesota is a magnet for real estate buyers, thanks to its stunning local economy, and safe, family-friendly environment. We have every reason to believe that between the pressure from out of state and from the growing tourism in the area that the market will only get stronger in the coming years.”
The Brainerd Lakes Area is home to many luxurious lakeshore homes with private dock access.
Classic ranch-style homes are common in older neighborhoods in Brainerd.
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Whitefish Chain of Lakes, Gull Chain of Lakes and an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course
Between the Whitefish Chain of Lakes and the Gull Chain of Lakes, Brainerd offers plenty of outdoor activity year-round. “It’s absolutely beautiful in the winter with lots of ice fishing, snowmobiling and skiing,” Kalenburg says. “There’s plenty to do in the winter, but summer is the reason why people live here. Our area is known for having wonderful fishing. It’s all freshwater, with lots of great bass fishing and panfishing. There’s a lot of muskie in the area. It’s a great outdoorsy area with deer hunting and fun game farms. There’s lots of stuff to do.” Brainerd also features several championship golf courses, including Deacon’s Lodge, designed by Arnold Palmer. “We have some of the best golf courses in Minnesota,” Kalenburg adds. “We have local designers that have put together fantastic places. It’s really become a destination for groups that want to golf and stay at all the resorts.”
The Brainerd Lake Area features a number of championship golf courses.
Brainerd is a top destination in Minnesota for fishing and water recreation.
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Brainerd Public Schools and Central Lakes College
Brainerd Public Schools gets a B-plus rating on Niche and is also ranked by the site as the top school district in all of Crow Wing County. Lowell Elementary gets an A-minus rating and ranks as the top public elementary school in Crow Wing County. Central Lakes College is a public community college with a campus in Brainerd and students who attend can pursue associates degrees or complete the Minnesota transfer curriculum for eligibility to transfer to a four-year university.
Most area students attend Brainerd Senior High School.
Central Lakes College, a comprehensive community and technical college, resides in Brainerd.
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Restaurants on the Gull Chain of Lakes
“On the Gull Chain, there are 17 restaurants on the lake, and it’s fine dining. You can get risotto, filet or bar food, and there’s great fish,” Kalenburg says. “We also have great businesses in town. We have healthcare and Costco and all the things you wouldn’t expect in a midsize town. We have all that you need, but you can still feel like you’re up north in a cabin.”
Ernie's on Gull is a Brainerd dining favorite, servicing up classic American fare with scenic lake views.
Brainerd residents can shop Costco Wholesale for affordable deals on bulk goods.
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Weather and the Brainerd Police Department
Brainerd’s humid continental climate gives it warm summers and severely cold winters. “For buyers unfamiliar with the northern climate, it’s important to understand just how cold winters can get here,” Fish says. “Over the years, I’ve had several buyers purchase homes only to sell and move after underestimating the challenges of the winter months. The cold, snow, and ice can be intense, and adjusting to these conditions requires a certain mindset.” Regarding natural disasters, Kalenburg considers Brainerd much safer than many other parts of the country. “We get occasional tornadoes or high winds, but we don’t get the devastation that so many parts of the country get. We’re in a very safe area, which feels important right now,” he says. The Brainerd Police Department reports decreased violent crime and increased property crime in Brainerd during 2023, and Brainerd's violent and property crime rates both exceed the U.S. average.
Minnesota State Highways, Crow Wing County Public Transit and Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport
Minnesota State Highways 18, 25, 210 and 371 run through Brainerd, and Crow Wing County Public Transit offers dial-a-ride services for Brainerd residents who need transportation assistance. “We’re only two hours from Minneapolis, and we also have an airport here that will fly you to Minneapolis,” Kalenburg says. “If you want to do business from Brainerd, it’s pretty easy to run your company here. You have quick access to the airport, so you can travel. You can do business while looking out over the lake.” Kalenburg reiterates that COVID brought a population boom to Brainerd, with many Minneapolis residents opting to live at their lake cabins full-time rather than staying in the city, which was experiencing high crime at the time.
The Fourth of July and the Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza
“Brainerd is the Fourth of July capital of Minnesota,” Kalenburg says. “We have several days of fireworks. We have wonderful family-owned resorts in our area, Grand View Lodge and Madden’s. They’re incredible. We’ll anchor up on the lake for the day and then have bonfires at night. There’s no place in the country I’d rather be than Brainerd on the Fourth.” Brainerd’s winter events include an annual polar plunge and the Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza. First held in 1991, the annual ice fishing tournament has become the largest ice fishing contest in the world. It raises funds for the Brainerd Jaycees, a local youth-centric nonprofit that provides ways for young people to give back to the Brainerd community.
Grand View Lodge in Brainerd hosts their annual 'Party at the Pines' Fourth of July celebration.
Brainerd's Fourth of July celebration continues at Madden's Resort, where fireworks can be seen over Gull Lake.
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Written By
Ellen Daly
Photography Contributed By
Jeff Karels
Video By
Conar McDaniel
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Michael Fish,
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 Brainerd, MN sell after 57 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Brainerd, MN over the last 12 months is $269,999, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
***Lot size subject to new plat Nestled between Ruth Lake and Gull Lake's coveted "Gold Coast," this exceptional home combines scenic privacy with high-end finishes across three levels. Surrounded by woods and wildlife, the sunlit interior features an open living area anchored by a cozy gas fireplace, hardwood floors, a bright upper-level loft, and a main-floor laundry room. At the center of the
Welcome to easy single-level country living, just minutes from all the conveniences of Brainerd. Tucked away on a peaceful dead-end road, this 2021-built home offers the perfect mix of privacy and modern comfort. Inside, you'll love the open-concept layout and the spacious primary suite featuring a walk-in closet and private bath. One of the standout features is the second living/flex space—a
Nestled on a peaceful cul-de-sac, this beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers the perfect blend of privacy, space, and nature on 3.23 wooded acres. The thoughtfully designed floor plan features a private primary suite, open floor plan, large room sizes, walkout lower level, maintenance free deck, screened in porch, and an oversized 3-car garage with plenty of room for vehicles, toys, and
Outstanding lot location! Close to all the Brainerd area has to offer...schools, shopping, dining, and recreation. Adjacent to assisted living/memory care facility makes this an exceptional opportunity for a mixed residential development. Great topography for positioning lots around towering pine trees and wetlands. Zoned R-3 allowing 4-12 units/acre. This is truly a premier development
What a setting! Nice corner lot, large deck, detached 2 car garage. Home has 2 porches! Tons of charm and opportunity await. Bring your ideas and make this home yours!
Beautiful home on Bluff Avenue in Brainerd’s north side neighborhood — and the inside is truly cozy and charming. This home features geothermal-assisted, highly efficient heating, making it extremely economical to operate year-round. It is also located just minutes from the hospital and everything Brainerd has to offer; it offers convenience and quick access to essential services. The home has
Enjoy the ease of one-level living in this charming patio home located in the Brainerd Oaks development. Designed for comfort and convenience, this maintenance-free home offers all the benefits of low-maintenance living—without the added expense of HOA fees. Inside, you'll find 2 bedrooms, 11⁄2 bathrooms, and a functional floor plan that's perfect for everyday living or downsizing. Lots of
LOCATION-LOCATION-LOCATION! East Pointe Association -quiet end unit- East Gull Lake. Experience the quintessential Up North lifestyle in this highly desirable end-unit townhome, perfectly positioned to capture breathtaking, panoramic views of Gull Lake and the serene pond. This thoughtfully designed residence features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a one-car detached garage. Enjoy prime
20 Acres with Heated Shop & Renovated Living Space – Endless Potential $5,000 allowance towards a drilled well installation!! Set on 20 prime acres, this exceptional property offers the perfect blend of functionality, comfort, and opportunity—ideal for hobbyists, entrepreneurs, or outdoor enthusiasts. All improvements were completed in 2026, giving you peace of mind and a truly move-in-ready
BRAND NEW 4BR, 2BA home, under construction and scheduled to be finished in September! This quality built, Lumber One, home will feature an open floor plan, large foyer entry, custom solid wood cabinets with soft close drawers, granite counters, spacious center island, stainless appliances, walk-in closets, a bright family room, and attached 3-car garage. The yard will be finished with an asphalt
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath townhome in a desirable 50+ community in Brainerd. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds, this inviting home offers comfort, convenience, and plenty of space to enjoy. The bright, open living room features vaulted ceilings and a cozy fireplace, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The well-appointed kitchen offers ample
Well constructed spacious home with park-like setting of 2.5 Acres with great location! Welcoming front porch as well as back deck and paver patio firepit area along with 2 storage sheds outside! New septic in 2019. Well maintained, huge ceiling heights, lots of storage throughout, extra large bedroom sizes, 3 full bathrooms included a primary bedroom ensuite with jetted tub plus the huge walk in
Ideally located by Gregory Park, schools, and churches, this classic 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom North Brainerd home welcomes you with a bright and cheerful ambiance. The main level is highlighted by a spacious foyer that flows into a large living room anchored by a cozy gas fireplace and gorgeous Maple floors. An updated kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring Cherry cabinetry, granite countertops, a
Luxury Living on 5+ Acres in the Heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area. Experience the perfect blend of privacy, comfort, and convenience with this exceptional 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom home situated on over 5 wooded acres. Ideally located just minutes from area lakes, scenic trails, popular restaurants, shopping, and everything the Brainerd Lakes Area has to offer, this property provides the peaceful
If you’re looking for maintenance free living in a great location, look no further. The Homes at Sanctuary Ridge is the Brainerd Lakes Area’s newest neighborhood, and is officially under construction. Nestled in the forest along the banks of the Gull River, The Homes at Sanctuary Ridge will feature 18 maintenance free townhomes, many with Gull River views. While the exterior of the home has been
Located just west of the Mississippi River, in beautiful Brainerd, MN, Colonywood Apartments is the perfect place to call home! Within our six properties we offer a great sense of community, competitive rental pricing, on-site laundry, controlled entrances and full-time on-site property manager and maintenance staff. We are centrally located and within walking distance of local shops,
Bonnywoode Arms Apartments was built in 1972 and consists of 18 residential units, 4 two bedrooms with balcony, 2 one bedrooms with den, 11 two bedrooms, and 1 one bedroom. This property is on a corner lot near Brainerd Community College and has ample parking for tenants in a private parking lot.
New remodeled 2 bedroom apartment in 4- plex. Quiet building with older adults. New appliances, carpet, flooring. No Smoking/Vaping. No pets. Garage with remote opener. All utilities paid except electric, WiFi.
Very clean non-smoking pet friendly twin house (east side for rent ). Two beds two baths 1000 finished square feet, 2000 total. Two stall attached garage. Unfinished basement with plenty of storage. Available in August. $2,500 rent plus utilities.
Brady PrinceeXp Realty
$1,245 per month
3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms Single Family Home in Brainerd, MN w/detached garage
3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms Single Family Home in Brainerd, MN w/detached garage. Washer and Dryer hookups. The tenant is responsible for utilities, snow and lawn care.Go to rentals and you can apply for pre-qualification on a rental. Must put in an application to be able to see the property. Requirements: Gross Monthly Income must be 3 times the rent; No felony convictions in the last 5
Welcome to urban comfort with hometown charm! This beautifully renovated studio apartment is a standout choice for renters looking for modern features, unbeatable convenience, and a vibrant downtown lifestyle, all at a highly competitive price point.Why You’ll Love This Unit:Modern Design & Upgraded FinishesStep inside and be impressed by a brand-new sleek kitchen complete with
3 BR, 1 bath, fenced in back yard, detached garage, living room, kitchen, plenty of storage space in the basement, laundry hook-ups. Tenant is responsible for electric, gas, water/sewer. 1 cat or 1 dog may be accepted with a one-time $300.00 non-refundable pet fee and $25.00 monthly pet rentGo to rentals to see more information on the home. Must put in an application to be able to see
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