$455,155Average Value$220Average Price per Sq Ft62Homes For Sale
Active community on the shores of Forest Lake
Named after the expansive 2,300-acre body of water at the heart of this community, Forest Lake offers residents an established small-town feel with a water-oriented lifestyle in northwestern Washington County. Many move to Forest Lake for the lake, the area's B-rated school district and its ongoing new development. “It’s a fantastic community with a strong sense of small-town camaraderie. It also has many benefits of a larger community,” says Bob Muske, broker at Re/Max Synergy. “We have amazing lakes, parks and golf courses, making it a popular destination for active families.” Forest Lake's first residents were the Ojibwe and Dakota people, who lived off the land. Later, in the 1860s, with the expansion of the railroad, Forest Lake became a known stop between St. Paul and Duluth. And while initially a summer vacation spot, once U.S. Interstate 35 was completed, the city transitioned once again into a year-round residential township. Today, Forest Lake is home to more than 20,000 residents and its top employers include the Forest Lake Public School District, which provides the local economy with over 1,000 jobs. For those who commute, Minneapolis and Saint Paul are both less than a 30-mile drive away along Interstate-35. Community staples like the seasonal farmers market and the annual Fourth of July Celebration play a role in maintaining a know-your-neighbor vibe within the city.
Forest Lake's namesake body of water is more than 2,300 acres.
I-35 is what transitioned Forest Lake from a vacation spot to a thriving city.
1/2
Growing market with waterfront estates
Homes in Forest Lake are popular for their proximity to the lake and for their area's wide price range. “It’s an evolving market with high growth expectations over the next five years,” says Muske, who has over 29 years of experience in Forest Lake and expertise in waterfront homes and development properties. The median sales price here is around $380,000, which is less than the median property in the U.S. However, price points vary greatly depending on the size and location of the property. For example, a two-bedroom twin style home may cost somewhere in the low $200,000s, while an expansive multi-acre estate with lakefront views and a private dock can reach upwards of $2 million. "We are currently seeing many builders and developers looking to invest in the community to take advantage of this growth,” adds Muske. While much of the housing stock downtown and around the lakes was constructed in the late 1990s, new builds are becoming more common on the southside beginning in the low $400,000s.
Homes on the shore of Forest Lake are highly sought after.
Newly built homes can be found on the south side of Forest Lake.
1/2
Bike paths, beaches and lakefront views
Forest Lake is home to 23 parks and 12 miles of paved bike paths. Spanning 3 acres, Lakeside Park is the primary gathering space for residents, and offers beach access, a boat dock and views of Forest Lake. Tower Park is another nearby option, with two outdoor ice rinks and access to the paved Hardwood Creek Regional Trail — which runs the vertical length of the city along U.S. Route 61. Forest Lake experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and freezing winters averaging 54 inches of snowfall per year. The City of Forest Lake maintains outdoor ice rinks at two parks complete with warming houses during the coldest months. The public Tanners Brook Golf Course is located on Forest Lake's southside and is a PGA regulated 18-hole course with indoor golf simulators for year-round play.
Lake Side Park in Isanti Northern Suburbs.
Tower Park is the place for outdoor hockey in Forest Lake.
1/2
The annual Fourth of July Celebration
In July, residents can attend the annual Fourth of July Celebration at Lakeside Park. This four-day festival is hosted by the Forest Lake American Legion Post 225. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, a parade and a fireworks display on July fourth. Festivities like bingo, karaoke and carnival rides area a part of this event. “It’s rumored to be the largest Fourth of July parade celebration in Minnesota,” says Muske. “It’s an amazing time of year to visit downtown and take in all the festivities.” It’s highly anticipated and has been a staple within the city for over a century.
Name-brand grocers and local bites downtown
Most residents do their shopping on the west side along Broadway Avenue. There’s also a selection of name-brand grocery stores here, like Walmart, Cub Foods and Aldi. Big-box retailers, like Target, Home Depot and Menards are also available. For fresh produce, the Forest Lake Farmers Market is held at Lakeside Park and takes place seasonally on Tuesdays from June through August. Locally owned shops like Mainstream Boutique and Sweet Liberty offer a curated selection of home goods and clothing options; and dining options range from fast-food chains to family-owned eateries in downtown Forest Lake. The Forest Lake City Council began a redevelopment project in 2022 with plans to expand the downtown area to attract new businesses, investors and to make it more pedestrian friendly. The timeline is expected to extend into 2025 with redesigns of the Forest Lake shoreline.
Aldi is a popular grocery option in Forest Lake.
Mainstream Boutique is a fasionable clothing store along hwy 61.
1/2
High-marks at Forest Lake Public Schools
Families in Forest Lake are zoned for Forest Lake Public Schools, which earns an overall B rating from the review site, Niche. It serves over 5,000 students and is ranked among the top 50 athletic programs out of 352 districts in Minnesota. There are seven elementary schools, one middle and one high school. Most students attend Forest Lake Area High School, which also earns a B from Niche and offers nine AP courses for higher education preparation. Private options like St. Peter Catholic School are also available.
Welcome to St. Peter Catholic School, a foundation of faith and academic excellence.
Forest Lake Area High School has a large stadium.
1/2
Nearby healthcare and access to U.S. I-35
Route 61 runs north to south through the city, offering access to U.S. Interstate 35 for traveling into the Twin Cities. Public rides are provided by the Metro Transit bus or the Jefferson Lines charter bus, which both operate from the Headwaters Transit Center along Route 61. When traveling farther, the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport is 30 miles away. For healthcare, the M Health Fairview Lakes Medical Center is 4 miles north of the community.
Crime
According to FBI data, Forest Lake experiences lower violent crime rates than most cities in the United States in general. In 2023, the Forest Lake Police Department reported significantly less incidents than the national average.
Written By
Christian Slater
Photography Contributed By
Tyler McNair
Video By
Conar McDaniel
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Lisa Duffy,
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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Forest Lake, MN sell after 42 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Forest Lake, MN over the last 12 months is $429,900, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Custom-built Craftsman style walk-out Rambler with 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and 6 garage stalls on 5+ acres nestled in pristine wildlife property with duck hunting pond, deer hunting field and trails adjacent to protected wetland area in back of home. Professionally landscaped with perennial gardens, fire pit and in-ground sprinkler system with 15 zones as well as outdoor outlets to gardens for
Discover this exceptional wooded retreat set on 3.02 private wooded acres—a true Northwoods escape that feels worlds away yet sits just minutes from Forest Lake's conveniences, lakes, parks, trails, shopping, dining, and commuter routes. Spanning 4,288 finished square feet, the home welcomes you with abundant natural light streaming through numerous windows that frame serene forest views,
The Bay is calling! Come enjoy over 250 feet of Lakeshore on Forest Lake! Experience lakeside living with the bonus of being in a neighborhood on a dead-end street. Enjoy easy access to the lake and community! The Bay allows you to leave your dock in over the winter, saving you the hassle of putting it in and taking it out season after season. An expansive deck offers panoramic views. Level
Your search for the perfect lake home ends here. Nestled on a quiet, dead-end street, this meticulously cared-for property offers an idyllic lakeside lifestyle with 69 feet of pristine shoreline on 1st Lake. Step inside and be captivated by an open-concept floor plan designed for seamless entertaining. The heart of the home is a stunning two-story living room, where expansive windows frame
Meticulously maintained and bursting with pride of ownership, this beautifully finished 5-bedroom, 4-bath home offers thoughtful details throughout. The bright, south facing, open concept main level features a welcoming living room with gas fireplace and stone surround, dining area, and a stunning kitchen complete with granite countertops, tile backsplash, soft close drawers, island, enameled
Discover the perfect place to build your dream home on this beautiful lot located in the peaceful community of North Forest Lake. Tucked away on a quiet street, this property offers a rare combination of natural beauty, privacy, and convenient access to all the amenities Forest Lake has to offer. This spacious parcel provides an excellent opportunity for custom home construction, whether you
This new two-story townhome design combines comfort and convenience with a double-height foyer to welcome residents and guests into the home. Down the hall is a Great Room for shared moments, a dining room for memorable meals and a modern kitchen for adventurous cooks. Through sliding glass doors is a patio to provide serene outdoor moments. The upper level is occupied by three restful bedrooms,
This elegant new two-story townhome grants plenty of space to grow and entertain. The first floor features an open design among a Great Room for get-togethers, a dining room for meals of every occasion and a kitchen for inspired cooking. Upstairs, two secondary bedrooms and the owner’s suite with a private full-sized bathroom provide personal retreats for family members. Completing the home is a
Step inside this stunning two-story townhome and discover a spacious, open-concept main floor designed for effortless entertaining and everyday living. The Great Room welcomes gatherings of all sizes, seamlessly flowing into a dedicated dining area perfect for meals and celebrations. The modern kitchen features sleek stainless steel appliances, inspiring creativity for every home chef. Just off
This well-maintained detached townhome offers space, style, and a great location in Forest Lake—just minutes from numerous lakes and outdoor amenities. With over 2,600 finished square feet, the home features 5 bedrooms (including 3 on the same level) and 3 bathrooms, making it ideal for a variety of living arrangements. Updates such as new carpet throughout the home, refinished kitchen floors,
Welcome to 'Forest Hills Preserve', Forest Lake's newest premier 55+ Custom Home Association community. Craft-fully built by Guidance Homes, located just minutes from downtown Forest Lake & I-35, this beautiful "rustic elegance" home & absolutely gorgeous lot are sure to impress! Step into the open-concept living area where a cozy gas fireplace with stone surround adds warmth and charm. The
ENJOY THE SECLUDED SOUTH FACING LAKESHORE ON FOREST LAKE! GORGEOUS 4557 SQ FT WITH 5 LARGE BR'S AND 3 FULL BATHS. MAIN FLOOR 3 BEDROOMS AND FULL PRIMARY SUITE! THis HOME HAS A SUNROOM AND DECK RIGHT ON TOP OF THE WATER FOR LIFE ON THE LAKE! 75' OF PRIME SANDY SHORELINE WITH HARD SANDY BASE! OVERSIZED 4 CAR HEATED ATTACHED GARAGE (25' X 43'). WET BAR IN UPSTAIRS ENTERTAINMENT ROOM IS SPACIOUS FOR
Custom-built Craftsman style walk-out Rambler with 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and 6 garage stalls on 5+ acres nestled in pristine wildlife property with duck hunting pond, deer hunting field and trails adjacent to protected wetland area in back of home. Professionally landscaped with perennial gardens, fire pit and in-ground sprinkler system with 15 zones as well as outdoor outlets to gardens for
Exciting opportunity with Guidance Homes, Inc to live in the Forest Hills Preserve Development in Forest Lake! Enjoy low-maintenance living in a beautifully maintained 55+ association, surrounded by nature yet just minutes from Highway 35 and the charming downtown Forest Lake area. This thoughtfully crafted, custom-designed walk-out rambler home offers over 3,000 square feet of comfortable living
Spacious three bedroom nicely finished up and down. Open floor plan with vaulted ceilings. Eat-in kitchen with stainless appliances. Main floor primary bedroom with walk-in closet. Lower level offers a large family room along with two generously sized bedroom. Lower level laundry room walks out the the attached over-sized garage. This home offers a convenient in town location and is walking
Timber Ridge Luxury Apartments is the newest apartment community in Forest Lake. Construction on our first building completed in April 2019 and features 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom apartments. Since then, we added an two additional buildings across the pond, one completed in November 2022 & the last one in February 2023. Both buildings features studio to 3 bedroom apartments. The homes feature
Enjoy your maintenance-free lifestyle while taking in the scenery of the lush wooded courtyards from your private patio or balcony. Spend your summers relaxing around the only outdoor swimming pool in Forest Lake or take a short drive to the lake for boating, fishing or swimming at the public beach. Your possibilities are endless here!Forest Lake, Minnesota, is a beautiful, developing
Looking for apartments in Forest Lake, MN? Place your bets on Autumn Hills Apartments. The charming suburban setting, the selection of spacious layouts, and the resident-centered amenity package make our community a wonderful destination for a well-rounded renting experience. Bring your four-legged companions with you we're pet-friendly!
Encore is comprised of luxury apartments. It offers studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, each with its own full size washers and dryers. Enjoy the internet cafe, outdoor pool, fitness center, dog run, movie room and more when you call Encore Apartments in Forest Lake home! Residents pay water/sewer, gas, electricity, internet, cable, and $5 per month for trash service.
Welcome to Forest Creek Estates in Forest Lake, MN, where modern 1–3 bedroom apartments feature open-concept layouts and private patios or decks. Each home includes the added convenience of an in-unit washer and dryer, making daily life easier.Residents enjoy a variety of community amenities, from the outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and theater room to the community gathering
Seven Pines has recently undergone a massive interior and exterior renovation, which brings new construction to nearly every aspect of the property. Inside the property you will find a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments containing new stainless-steel front appliances, new granite kitchen countertops, beautiful new galley kitchen cabinetry, new windows, decking, paint, light fixtures, and more.
Welcome to Mill Pond Apartments in Forest Lake, Minnesota, which features large two and three bedroom apartments. Mill Pond is conveniently located, with easy access to Interstate 35, Lakeside Memorial Park, the regional Hardwood Creek Trail, and amazing shopping and dining options in every direction you go. Stay at home at you'll be able to enjoy our playground, fitness center, and heated
Forest Park II Apartments is conveniently located in a quiet neighborhood in Forest Lake, Minnesota. Just a few blocks from the lake, our residents have great access to public water access, a beach and area parks. Forest Lake is a beautiful, developing city. We are easily situated on I-35 on the way to Duluth and other northern Minnesota destinations. However, it is only a short drive to the Twin
Legacy Pointe is a beautiful building that provides all the modern conveniences you may expect. There are two and three-bedroom apartment homes. Residents here have access to a pool, fitness center, game room, playground, underground garage, and more! Legacy Pointe Apartments in Forest Lake is near many local businesses, restaurants and shops. There are two elementary schools within walking
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: 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.
