$220,525Average Value$117Average Price per Sq Ft59Homes For Sale
Lakeside living in rural southern Minnesota
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.
Written By
Liz Coughlin
Photography Contributed By
Brandon Rowell
Video By
Jason Jacot
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Heather Allen,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Fairmont, MN sell after 56 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Fairmont, MN over the last 12 months is $182,545, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Enjoy the benefits of twin-home living without association dues! Located on a quiet cul-de-sac dead-end road, this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 3-bath home offers comfortable living, beautiful open views behind the home, and plenty of space for everyday living and entertaining. The inviting open-concept main level connects the living room, dining area, and kitchen, creating a warm and functional
Full of character and timeless appeal, this cozy 2 bedroom stucco bungalow offers original weathered hardwood floors and original brick fireplace for decorative function. Enjoy an unbeatable location in this price range with just a short walk to restaraunts, the lake, parks and the walking/bike trail is conveniently located right across the street. Whether you're looking for your first home, a
Look no further! This inviting home offers the convenience of main-floor living with a spacious kitchen that opens to the dining area, creating a comfortable space for everyday living and entertaining. The cozy addition features vaulted ceilings and provides the perfect place to relax. The main level also includes three bedrooms, a full bathroom, main-floor laundry, and a primary suite with a
Enjoy peaceful country living with this charming three-bedroom home situated on approximately 3.5 acres. The main floor features a spacious living room, a galley-style kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a comfortable bedroom, a full bathroom, and an additional ¾ bathroom. Upstairs, you’ll find two more bedrooms and a large landing that offers flexible space for a home office, playroom, or
Step into comfort, space, and timeless charm with this beautifully updated four-bedroom, three-bath home. Featuring classic cedar siding, this property offers warm curb appeal and lasting durability. Inside, you’ll find all-new flooring/paint throughout, creating a fresh, modern feel in every room. Perfect for both relaxing and entertaining, the home boasts two inviting living spaces—each with
What can be better than lake life and golf? This property combines both and is in move in ready condition.Many renovations have been done on the main floor to best utilize space while offering lake views from kitchen and living room. Large open kitchen with dine at island and living room along with 2 bedrooms on the main level and large 3/4 bathroom. A spiral stair case takes you to the
Fantastic 3 bedroom 3 bath rambler located on a quiet cul-de-sac near the lake! Location awaits you in this pristine, spacious, main floor living home. Some of the great features on the main level include a spacious living room with a gas fireplace, master bedroom with a master bathroom, large formal dining room, and an eat-in kitchen. There is a spacious 2 car attached garage, and plenty of
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. The garage is deep enough to add shelving for additional storage too! 2 large bedrooms and the primary has
Attention investors, looking for your next project in the Fairmont area? This home offers a spacious layout and blank canvas ready for your creativity and renovation skills. New roof, siding, and windows have already been installed. Comesee and make this your summer project.
A rare find—double lot, huge yard, major updates, and room for everyone. This expansive 4-bedroom, 3-bath home features a generously sized primary bedroom, refreshed interiors, and multiple living spaces designed for comfort. The versatile layout includes a bonus room that can easily serve as a 5th bedroom, giving you options as your needs evolve. With so much space inside and an oversized yard
Welcome to this charming 3 bedroom, 2 bath turn-of-the-century home situated on a corner lot. The main level features newer LVP flooring, while the natural woodwork and built-in hutch in the dining room add warmth and timeless character. All three bedrooms are located on the upper level and offer spacious layouts, along with a full bath featuring newer tile in the shower. Outside, you’ll
This home sits on a large, mature lot with lots of possibilities! The main floor features a spacious kitchen, living room, and large bathroom. The upper level features one bedroom and a landing that could be used for an office space or additional storage.
This well-maintained rambler might be the charming mid-century home you've been dreaming of! Main level includes a bright, sunny living room, formal dining room with a bay window, a functional kitchen with roll-out drawers, plenty of storage, and a peninsula for your morning breakfast. Laundry room is right off the garage entry into the house.Plus you will find 3 bedrooms on the main level, a
Fully Furnished Apartment for Rent- Downtown Fairmont. Move-in ready and perfectly located! This beautifully remodeled apartment features: One large bedroom. Open-concept kitchen and living area. In-unit washer and dryer. Off-street parking and a private one-stall garage. Updated within the last 5 years. Located in the heart of downtown Fairmont- walk to shops, restaurants, and more! Perfect for
Pheasant Run Apartments has 3-bedroom apartments available. Rent is based on 30% gross monthly household income. Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment ranges from $790-1000 plus a Security Deposit of $790. Rental Assistance may be available for qualified applicants. HEAT, water, sewer, and garbage are included in the rent. Amenities include off-street parking, on-site laundry facilities, and lawn
Pheasant Run Apartments has 3-bedroom apartments available. Rent is based on 30% gross monthly household income. Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment ranges from $790-1000 plus a Security Deposit of $790. Rental Assistance may be available for qualified applicants. HEAT, water, sewer, and garbage are included in the rent. Amenities include off-street parking, on-site laundry facilities, and lawn
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