Fairmont offers a lakeside lifestyle in southern Minnesota. This rural city is known for its connected lake system, where waterfront recreation and real estate are a main attraction. Located in the state's top pork-producing county, Fairmont's economy is based mainlyon agriculture and manufacturers such as Fairmont Foods and 3M. With a strong economic footing, the city is moving into the future with downtown revitalization efforts. "If you're someone looking for a small-town lifestyle and good opportunity, we're economically sound with great amenities and quality of life," says Economic Development Coordinator Ned Koppen, who has lived in Fairmont since 1986.
With five lakes, waterfront property is abundant in Fairmont.
Fairmont Foods dates back to the late 19th century and is known for pork production.
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Variety of homes and prices on the lakes
Lake homes are Fairmont's most popular real estate, according to Paul Determan, a Realtor with Re/Max and a lifelong Fairmont resident. "Compared with other lakeside communities, our prices are appealing," he says. The median price is around $175,000 — less than half of the national median. There are various styles from the early 20th century through the early '00s, including ranch-style properties and Minimal Traditional properties. Development is rare, but the White Ridge Trail development is bringing new twin homes to the southern end of the city.
Tudor style homes can be found in more established areas of Fairmont.
Split level homes are common in newer areas of Fairmont.
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Swimming, boating and water skiing on the weekends
The Fairmont lifestyle includes weekends on the water. Four of the five lakes connect so that boats can travel in between. Kayaks, flat-bottom fishing boats and performance boats are common sights on the lakes, dropping in at public launches or floating out from private docks and yacht clubs. "There is a lot of water skiing, fishing, and just people out enjoying time with their friends and taking in the sun," Determan says. Besides the lakes, Fairmont maintains 400 acres of parkland with playgrounds, sports fields and disc golf courses. In the winter, residents also head to city parks for sledding and ice skating.
Gomsrud Park offers a modern playground near the shores of Budd Lake.
Gomsrud Park has public beach access for swimming in Budd Lake.
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Burgers by the water at Channel Inn
Like many Fairmont activities, dining revolves around the lakes. Channel Inn is a local favorite that serves burgers, tater tots and beer on an outdoor patio overlooking Hall Lake. Downtown Fairmont is rebounding after a period of decline, Koppen says. "Over the last three and a half years, we've seen an upswing, and now it's hard to find a vacancy," he says. "Business owners have made a lot of investments in new signage and storefronts." Consignment shops, jewelry stores and diverse hometown restaurants are found across downtown Fairmont, along with the Fairmont Opera House. Chain restaurants and a Hy-Vee Grocery Store sit along State Route 15.
HyVee is one of the few big box stores in the Fairmont area.
The Channel Inn is a popular lakeside restaurant in Fairmont, offering boat parking in the summer.
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STEM learning at Fairmont schools
The Fairmont Area School District earns an overall B from Niche. It encompasses Fairmont Elementary School, which serves early childhood through sixth grade, and Fairmont Junior/Senior High School, which serves seventh through twelfth. The district recently revised its curriculum to incorporate more Science, Technology, Engineering and Math instruction, from technology activities in early childhood to career and technical education courses in high school.
Minnesota's second-largest county fair
The Martin County Fair is an annual highlight featuring big-name artists, a rodeo, carnival games and livestock shows. It's Minnesota's second-largest county fair. "Every county has a county fair, but I think ours is truly special by comparison," Koppen says. "It's the size, the entertainment and the commitment from the fair board to make it a big deal." Interlaken Heritage Days features rubber duck races, vendors and a car show. Other annual highlights include a fishing tournament, a triathlon and a Fourth of July fireworks show over the water.
Prairie Lakes Transit travels around town
Fairmont is somewhat walkable, with a network of sidewalks around the downtown area, although the lakes and outskirts require travel by car and public transportation. Prairie Lakes Transit operates a few fixed bus routes throughout the center of the city. Interstate 90 and Route 15 are the primary routes across the region, intersecting at the top of Fairmont. I-90 is the primary way to get to Mason City Municipal Airport, about 100 miles southeast, the closest airport with commercial service, offering daily service to Chicago. The Mayo Clinic Fairmont Hospital features primary and specialty care services, including around-the-clock emergency care.
Crime rates are trending down
In its 2023 annual report, the Fairmont Police Department noted that its overall crime rate decreased significantly, about 36%, from 2018. It also noted a significant drop in narcotic-related offenses due in part to community initiatives such as the Martin County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition.
Located just west of Northrop MN on Martin Lake this 13.85 +/- acre recreational parcel of land is secluded from roads and is a private retreat. Property access has just been created off 175th St and runs north then east to main parcel. This is the sportsman's jackpot for hunting! Deer, waterfowl, turkey, pheasant and small game. This land has about 2100' of lake shore on Martin Lake. There
This is main floor living at it's best! These patio homes were completed in February of 2025 and are ready for occupancy. No HOA fees so you are free to arrange your own lawn & snow services or do your own. There is a laundry room as you enter the house from the garage with storage space. 2 large bedrooms and the primary has it's own 3/4 bath. The kitchen is open with a vaulted ceiling and
This is main floor living at it's best! These patio homes were completed in February of 2025 and are ready for occupancy. No HOA fees so you are free to arrange your own lawn & snow services or do your own. There is a laundry room as you enter the house from the garage with storage space. 2 large bedrooms and the primary has it's own 3/4 bath. The kitchen is open with a vaulted ceiling and
Property Id: 2429183BR Townhome in a 12 unit community. Available February 1, 2025. This town home has all flooring. East Side Estates offers two level townhome living. Each townhome has a private entrance and backyard. The upper level offers 3 carpeted bedrooms and a full bath. The main level has a 1/2 bath, carpeted living room, eat-in kitchen and laundry room. Kitchens feature oak
Fairmont Square Apartments received a stunning remodel and will have a 2-bedroom apartment available for rent mid-June. Rent for a 2-bedroom is $825. The Security Deposit is equal to 1 full month's rent. Heat, electricity, water, sewer, and garbage are included in the rent. There is an A/C charge during the months of May-September of $40/month for 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. This property
Listed by Renters Warehouse Mankato is this spacious 1 bedroom / 1 bathroom side-by-side duplex with single attached garage. The unit is available June 1st or sooner. $800 + electric & gas (water/sewer/trash included). Free shared washer/dryer with other unit. Sorry no smoking. Cats okay with refundable pet deposit. Credit/background check required. Please contact Dawn with any questions, or to
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Source: Public RecordsDisclaimer: 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.
