Peaceful living and small-town charm in Steele County
Named after the Dakota word for ‘Straight River,’ Owatonna offers a scenic lifestyle with urban convenience just 65 miles southwest of the Twin Cities. “It’s the perfect blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences,” says Jen Fielding, Realtor with Home Discovery Group. “I love how easy it is to enjoy the outdoors here, whether it's biking the trails, exploring Kaplan’s Woods, or just strolling through the historic downtown.” Owatonna was first occupied by the Dakota people who used the land for hunting. English settlers followed and it was later established as a city in 1865. The completion of U.S. Interstate 35 resulted in a surge of new residents. Today, the city is home to more than 26,000 residents. Steele County has the highest concentration of manufacturing jobs in Minnesota and top employers, like Viracon, a glass fabricator, and Federated Insurance contribute to Owatonna’s focus in both manufacturing and insurance. Despite its continued growth, amenities like the Village of Yesteryear and the annual Steele County Free Fair preserve local history and maintain a larger sense of community. “Plus, with its convenient location near the Twin Cities and Rochester, you get the best of both worlds—peaceful living with big-city access when you need it,” adds Fielding.
Owatonna was established as a city in 1865.
Federated Mutual Insurance Company is a major employer in the Owatonna area.
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Competitive market, empty lots and expansive estates
Homes in Owatonna are attractive for their entry-level pricing and range of housing options that appeal to many buyers. With a median sales price of around $280,000, homes cost $140,000 less than the average property in the U.S. “The Owatonna market has experienced a 5.5% increase in median home sale prices over the past year,” says Fielding, with over a decade of real estate experience in the area. “It remains somewhat competitive, with homes typically selling for about 1% below list price.” Home prices range from as low as $100,000 for a three-bedroom manufactured home to upwards of $1 million for a six-bedroom new traditional estate with expansive acreage. Homes on the east side tend to have larger lots with more acreage, while homes to the west along the interstate are more modest. Empty lots start around $40,000 for one acre, while newly constructed single-family homes go for around $400,000 and continue to develop in new subdivisions on the outskirts of the city.
Ranch and two story homes co-mingle in most Owatonna neighborhoods.
Many of the newer ranch style homes offer three car garages in Owatonna.
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City parks and the Village of Yesteryear
Owatonna has 37 parks, 17 trails and more than 867 acres to explore year-round. Owatonna experiences all four seasons, from humid summers to winters, with an average of 44 inches of snowfall yearly. Kaplan’s Woods is in the southwest corner. It spans over 200 acres and offers views of Lake Kohlmier. It’s popular no matter the weather, with summer activities like swimming, fishing and sunbathing and winter activities like ice skating and cross-country skiing. On the east side, Mineral Springs Park offers a playground, a disc golf course and access to the 2-mile Buxton Trail along Maple Creek. Morehouse Park is another option, with a jungle gym, picnic pavilion, walking trails and a fishing pond. For a contemplative time, the Village of Yesteryear is on the south side. It’s home to 19 historical structures, including the original 19th century town hall, preserved by the Steele County Historical Society. The State School Orphanage Museum is off State Avenue, offering guided tours to honor the legacy of more than 10,000 orphans. It was one of the largest state-run orphanages in the U.S.
The original Owatonna Town Hall can be found in the Village of Yesteryear.
Kaplan Woods Park spans over 200 acres and offers several trails.
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The annual Steele County Free Fair
In August, residents can attend the annual Steele County Free Fair. It’s hosted in Owatonna at the fairgrounds off Elm Avenue. This week-long event is free to attend and features live music performances, carnival rides and food vendors to enjoy. The fair is highly anticipated and attracts over 100,000 attendees every year. It is considered the largest county fair in Minnesota.
High marks at Owatonna Public Schools
Families in Owatonna are zoned for the Owatonna Public School District, which earns an overall B rating from the educational review site Niche. It serves around 5,000 students and is ranked 14th out of 321 for athletics in Minnesota. The district has four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Most students attend Owatonna Senior High School, which earns a B-plus rating and is recognized as one of the top 100 public schools in Minnesota. Private options like Owatonna Christian School and St. Mary's School are also available. Those interested in pursuing higher education degrees can look to Riverland Community College, which awards associate and bachelor’s degrees in over 100 subjects.
Owatonna High School has earned an overall grade of B+ from Niche.com.
Riverland Community College has been serving students for over 80 years.
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Local grocers, boutiques and eateries in Downtown Owatonna
Most residents shop on the westside along I-35. There’s a mix of name-brand grocers like Walmart Supercenter or Aldi and big-box retailers like Target and Lowe’s Home Improvement along the thoroughfare. Local boutiques, like Hidden Rose and Urban Loft, offer a curated selection of clothing and vintage wares. Dining options vary from fast-food chains to family-owned eateries in Downtown Owatonna. Notable mentions include Torey's Restaurant & Bar, which serves all-American fare and has served the community for over 15 years.
Walmart is a major retailer in the Owatonna area.
Aldi provides Owatonna residents with plenty of healthy choices.
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Nearby healthcare and access to U.S. I-35
I-35 runs vertically on the city's west side, connecting residents to U.S. Route 14 and Hoffman Drive for trips into downtown. The Southern Minnesota Area Rural Transit (SMART) bus provides public rides throughout the city. Farther trips are accommodated by the Owatonna Degner Regional Airport, which has a flight school and is fully serviced by the city. For healthcare, the Owatonna Hospital is located in the northwest corner of the community.
Crime
According to the Owatonna Police Department, the city’s violent and property crime rates remain well below national figures. Violent crime decreased slightly in 2023, while property crimes lowered by 12%, based on FBI statistics.
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Owatonna, MN sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Owatonna, MN over the last 12 months is $280,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Discover the value this affordable 4BD, 2BD home has to offer. With three bedrooms on the main level and a finished basement featuring a fourth bedroom, there's plenty of flexible living space to fit your needs. Step outside to enjoy the spacious deck overlooking the fenced in yard, all situated on a large corner lot with a detached garage for added convenience and storage. Offering functional
This recently updated 3-bedroom, 1.75-bath home offers a modern interior with stylish finishes and a functional layout designed for comfortable everyday living. The inviting living spaces flow seamlessly into the updated kitchen and dining areas, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.Step outside to enjoy the fully fenced backyard, perfect for relaxing, entertaining, or letting pets
Well cared for and move-in ready, this 3-bedroom split-level home offers comfortable living spaces, thoughtful features, and a great outdoor setup. The main level welcomes you with a cozy fireplace in the living room, a dining area with patio doors leading to the backyard, and a functional kitchen featuring abundant cabinetry, a buffet counter, and breakfast bar. All three bedrooms are located
Discover the value this affordable 4BD, 2BD home has to offer. With three bedrooms on the main level and a finished basement featuring a fourth bedroom, there's plenty of flexible living space to fit your needs. Step outside to enjoy the spacious deck overlooking the fenced in yard, all situated on a large corner lot with a detached garage for added convenience and storage. Offering functional
Tucked away in a peaceful country setting just minutes from Owatonna, this thoughtfully cared-for rambler offers a rare opportunity to step into a home where exceptional care has been taken. With 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and main-floor laundry, this home welcomes you with a comfortable, functional layout and a sense of warmth the moment you walk through the door. The condition is truly
Escape to the peace and beauty of country living with this stunning 7-acre homestead nestled along scenic Turtle Creek.This 3-bedroom, ¾-bath home offers the perfect blend of privacy, nature, and convenience, with the soothing sounds of the creek and abundant wildlife right outside your door.The acreage features a fenced pasture for livestock, shaded by large mature trees,
Looking for a home that's truly move-in ready? This beautifully updated 3BD, 2BA home offers the charm of an established neighborhood without the long to-do list. Enjoy peace of mind with a brand new roof, new appliances, updated flooring, fresh lighting, and an updated bathroom. Main floor laundry adds everyday convenience, while the oversized attached 2 stall garage plus an additional detached
Recently remodeled 3-bedroom home. Custom knotty alder cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, updated hardware showcase the kitchen. A fully renovated bathroom includes a new vanity, linen storage, and a custom-tiled tub/shower surround with modern fixtures.Interior updates include luxury vinyl plank flooring in main areas, new carpet in bedrooms and living room, fresh paint, and updated
This classic 4-bedroom, 1.5-bath home is full of timeless charm and thoughtful updates. The property features beautiful hardwood floors, adding warmth and character to every room.Recently replaced windows enhance both energy efficiency and natural light. The home’s layout offers ample living space, perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.Outside enjoy a spacious yard,
Welcome to this beautiful 3-bedroom, 1.75-bath home located in a quiet area of Owatonna, MN. Offering a comfortable blend of charm and functionality, this inviting home is an opportunity for anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful setting while remaining close to the conveniences of Owatonna including Dartt's Park.A welcoming porch provides a great spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors, while
Some homes take a while to win you over. This one takes about 30 seconds. Step inside this charming cottage, make your way to the expansive deck, look toward the woods, and you’ll understand why. Morning coffee with the birds, evenings listening to the trees. Deer and owls passing through are all part of the setting. Situated on approximately half an acre, the backyard connects you to Kaplans
This recently updated 3-bedroom, 1.75-bath home offers a modern interior with stylish finishes and a functional layout designed for comfortable everyday living. The inviting living spaces flow seamlessly into the updated kitchen and dining areas, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.Step outside to enjoy the fully fenced backyard, perfect for relaxing, entertaining, or letting pets
Charming and affordable home on a spacious lot in a quiet Owatonna neighborhood! This move in ready property features numerous updates including newer windows, fresh paint, updated flooring, refreshed kitchen improvements, and a newer garage roof. The oversized heated 2 car garage offers excellent storage and workspace potential year round. Enjoy the peaceful setting, usable yard space, and a
The Apartments at West Lake Meadows feature open concept living areas with studio, one and two-bedroom Apartments. An outdoor pool with a sundeck, dishwashers, stacked washer/dryer and many more amenities are found in each apartment. Each building offers a community room, fitness room, elevator and library for tenant use. Property features a clubhouse with a conference room and lobby. Community
One Month Free on Select Units - Contact us for more details!South Pointe Apartments opened their doors on August 1, 2018 in Owatonna, MN! It's a 37 unit, market rate property. Phase II opened July 2020 with another 28 units!It's conveniently located close to daycares, shopping, convenience store, great restaurants, hospital, parks and Steele County Fairgrounds.South Pointe offers
Find Your Perfect Home at the Cedar View Apartments – Modern Living with Exceptional Comfort!Welcome to Cedar View Apartments, where contemporary design meets everyday convenience in Owatonna. Whether you're looking for a spacious studio, 1, 2, or 3-bedroom home, our modern apartments are designed to elevate your lifestyle.Special Offer: $750 Rent Credit! Get a $750 credit applied
Cooper's Court Apartments in Owatonna, Minnesota, boasts newly renovated units with spacious walk-in closets in select units, private balconies or patios, on-site laundry, a large dining area and stainless steels appliances including a dishwasher.
Park Plaza is designed for today's tenants wanting modern construction and amenities, easy access to a variety of jobs, services, a nature reserve, entertainment and no maintenance. Maximum space has been dedicated to your independent unit. Outdoor grills and picnic area available to all tenants.Relax and enjoy your favorite meal time on your patio.Make the most of having a washer & dryer
The Pearl in Owatonna, consists of 22-one bedroom units, 9-one bedroom with den, and 12-two bedroom/two bath units.All 43 units have 9 foot ceilings and the 4th floor units have popular vaulted ceilings.Each unit has a private balcony or patio, individually controlled heat and air conditioning, private washer and dryer, high speed internet, and stainless steel appliances.The building
Ideally located on East Vine Street near downtown Owatonna, MN. 111 Vine offers comfortable apartment living with the convenience of being close to local shopping, dining, entertainment, and everyday essentials. With studio, one, one + den, and two bedroom apartment homes ranging from 617 to 1,027 square feet, there's room to find a home that fits your lifestyle.Apartments here feature
South Pointe II Apartments is a 28 unit, market rate property. It's conveniently located close to daycare, shopping, Hy-Vee store, great restaurants, hospital, parks and Steele County Fairgrounds.South Pointe offers individually controlled heat and air conditioning, fitness center, in-home washer/dryers, stainless steel appliances and flat top stoves in every apartment. South Pointe I Apartments
This new development marks the exciting beginning of a critical revitalization of Owatonna’s riverway. ASCEND has an attractive combination of luxury apartments on the upper levels and main-floor retail and commercial space. The site sits adjacent to the east bank of the Straight River on Vine Street with multimodal connections to the Downtown District. Mineral Springs Brewery and Olmsted Medical
The Pointe @ Merchant Square welcomes you to a modern feel home with the ease of maintenance free apartment living. We offer 6 month, 9 month, 12 month, 15 month and 18 month lease terms to best fit your housing needs. The Pointe @ Merchant Square consists of 1 and 2 bedroom open floorplan units with a spacious kitchen including stainless steel appliances and large living area with hardwood style
Welcome to Aire—Owatonna’s newest multifamily community, thoughtfully designed for comfort, convenience, and connection. Tucked along the quiet east edge of the city, Aire offers a peaceful residential setting with quick and easy access to Highway 14 and close proximity to the area’s newest high school.Surrounded by charming single-family homes, scenic woodlands, walking trails, parks, and
This meticulously well-kept property is located blocks away from beautiful downtown Owatonna and across from Jaycee Park. Chambers Avenue Apartments offers spacious updated two-bedroom apartments. There is on site coin operated laundry and private entrances to each unit. 6-month, and 1-year leases are available. Rent special!!! Sign a 13-month lease and receive one month free plus a
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