$312,533Average Value$159Average Price per Sq Ft61Homes For Sale
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:
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 Owatonna, MN sell after 50 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Owatonna, MN over the last 12 months is $284,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Seeing is believing. A cherished home where the wood built-ins and flooring are a showstopper. Meticulous interior upkeep by owner reflects loving care. Character filled spaces are abundant. Corner lot with expansive street-facing porch.
Enjoy the ease of true main-level living in this inviting patio home located just outside city limits—offering peaceful surroundings with the comfort of nearby neighbors. This well-maintained home features 2 bedrooms, a full bath, and convenient main-floor laundry. The updated kitchen and refreshed mudroom add modern touches, while newer windows fill the home with natural light. Step out onto the
Rare 5 Bedroom Ranch with Heated Garage + Bonus Entertainment Space + Major Updates!Hard-to-find 5 bedroom, 2 bathroom ranch-style home featuring a 2-stall heated garage with floor drain and an additional insulated, heated & air-conditioned entertainment bar room behind the garage — ideal for a man cave, hobby space, home business, gym, or entertaining retreat. Buy with confidence knowing
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
Welcome to this charming home in Owatonna, MN, situated on a desirable double corner lot just steps from the park. Inside, you'll find hardwood floors, an updated bathroom, a convenient pantry, and a cozy breakfast nook. The roof is only three years old, offering peace of mind. Enjoy outdoor living with a welcoming porch and a fully fenced-in yard. This home also boasts lots of storage throughout
If you've been searching for a move-in ready home in Owatonna with room to breathe, this one checks the boxes. Set on a quiet U-shaped street, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,668 finished square feet and a flat, fenced backyard that's ready for summer gatherings, pets, or just unwinding after a long day.The updates are already done for you — fresh interior paint, updated kitchen
This classic 1959 rambler offers the layout buyers love, with 3 bedrooms on the main level and a fourth bedroom being added in the basement with a new egress window. Morning coffee on the back patio, evenings at the nearby softball diamonds, and walking distance to the Steele County Fairgrounds. This location puts you close to everything without losing that neighborhood feel.You’ll also
Experience the serenity and space of true country living on this beautiful seven-acre retreat just minutes from town. Bathed in natural light, the thoughtfully appointed home offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that blends seamlessly with its scenic surroundings. The property is well-equipped for hobby farming or rural living, featuring a wooded pasture (sheep may remain if desired), a 17x11
Steele County MN farmland for sale This highly productive 61.92 deeded-acre row crop property in Somerset Township (T106N, R20W) offers investors and farm operators an outstanding opportunity in one of southern Minnesotas top agricultural counties. With a weighted average Corn Productivity Index (CPI) of 84.0, excellent soil mix, existing drainage improvements, and current cash rent of $250 per
Jennifer BuschUnited Country Real Estate | Midwest Home & Farm Realty
welcome to this beautifully updated 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home, originally built in 1952 and thoughtfully renovated for modern living. This inviting one story home features brand new luxury plank flooring, fresh paint throughout, and new carpet downstairs. The fully updated kitchen shines with new cupboards, quartz countertops, tile backsplash and updated appliances-including a new stove,
Julie Wesely-SmitColdwell Banker River Valley, REALTORS
This well-maintained split-level home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a spacious 2-car garage. The primary bedroom features a private full bath and a walk-in closet, giving you a comfortable retreat at the end of the day. The living room is bright and inviting, highlighted by a beautiful bow bay window that brings in plenty of natural light. Step outside to enjoy a fully fenced yard, perfect
Thinking about building...This subdivision is a super place to live. Northeast edge of town offering quick access to I-35, walking path, and schools. Beautiful neighborhood. Perfect opportunity for daylight windows! Come view today!!
Coopers 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.
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
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 individually controlled heat and air conditioning, fitness center,
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.Each Apartment Features:- Pet friendly & smoke free -
South Pointe II Apartments is a 28 unit, market rate property. Its 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
111 Vine Apartments is located at 111 East Vine Street Owatonna, MN and is managed by INH Property Management Inc., a reputable property management company with verified listings on RENTCafe. 111 Vine Apartments offers Studio to 2 bedroom apartments ranging in size from 617 to 1027 sq.ft. Amenities include Air Conditioner, BBQ/Picnic Area, Cable Ready, Carpeting, Ceiling Fan and more. This rental
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
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
Apartments on Mound offers the best of both worlds! We're located with easy access to shopping, restaurants, and a theater but nestled on a quiet, residential street just a tad removed from the action. Highway I-35 exit is located just over a block away, very convenient for commuters. Enjoy spending time outside? Check out the walking trails and residential area park just steps away! Pets
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
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