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Wabasha

Wabasha

Located in Wabasha County

$287,950 Average Value
$173 Average Price per Sq Ft
18 Homes For Sale

Wabasha is a small, friendly town on the banks of the Mississippi

While it might be best known for its appearance in the 1993 comedy film "Grumpy Old Men," the southeastern Minnesota city of Wabasha is popular today for its small-town, riverfront lifestyle on the Mississippi. “It’s kind of a bed and breakfast community right next to the river,” says Donna Sylvester, an agent and team lead with Keller Williams Premier, who has 20 years of experience. “There are two marinas, and there are bike trails. A lot of businesses are established on the river, where you can sit and enjoy the views. So, there’s quite a bit with the river that brings people here.” The community is home to just under 3,000 people and offers four seasons of recreation with the water and other nearby attractions. While the laid-back, rural lifestyle appeals to homebuyers, Wabasha is also within commuting distance from Rochester and Winona, making it a convenient choice for workers in those cities.

The city of Wabasha is well known for being the setting of the 1993 film, Grumpy Old Men.
The city of Wabasha is well known for being the setting of the 1993 film, Grumpy Old Men.
Main Street West in downtown Wabasha lets residents visit local businesses along the Mississippi River.
Main Street West in downtown Wabasha lets residents visit local businesses along the Mississippi River.
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Vintage and new-build homes line the community streets

Homes cover a wide range of styles and time periods. “You have everything from new construction to homes that have been there since Wabasha started,” Sylvester says. Houses from the early 1900s include cottages, bungalows and American Foursquares. More contemporary properties like split-levels and ranch-style homes are also available. The area has a suburban feel, with leafy trees and grassy yards. Sidewalks line many of the streets, offering walkability through the community. New Traditional houses are available in several subdivisions throughout the city, typically featuring prominent attached garages with room for two or three cars. The median sales price is around $340,000, higher than in Winona but lower than in Lake City. Much of the area is prone to flooding. The city has flood maps available on its website.

Cottages from the early 1900's are seen along residential streets in Wabasha.
Cottages from the early 1900's are seen along residential streets in Wabasha.
The median home price in Wabasha is around $340,000.
The median home price in Wabasha is around $340,000.
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Boating, fishing and swimming on the Mississippi River

Water activities are the primary recreation draws in town. Izaak Walton Park has a public boat ramp for launching kayaks, canoes or motorboats. It also has 40 seasonal docks for boat storage. Boat owners can also keep their boats at the Parkside Marina or the Wabasha Marina. Spots like Izaak Walton Park and Malone Park also have public fishing docks where visitors can cast a line for crappie, walleye or bass. Rotary Beach Park offers a spot to relax in the sun or enjoy a dip in the river. Other city green spaces include athletic fields and playgrounds. Coffee Mill Ski Area has three lifts allowing skiers to access 14 trails. Coffee Mill Country Club is a nearby 18-hole golf course that is open to the public.

Izaak Walton Park has a small marina.
Izaak Walton Park has a small marina.
Beach Park is located on the Mississippi River.
Beach Park is located on the Mississippi River.
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Locally owned restaurants fill the downtown streets

Brick buildings line the streets of downtown Wabasha, housing locally owned shops and restaurants. Herb and Arrow is a bistro serving salad, sandwiches and flatbreads, with plenty of outdoor seating. Other spots include pubs, saloons and pizza joints. Slippery’s Bar & Grill is a bit outside of downtown, but it is one of the most popular spots in the city. “In 'Grumpy Old Men,' they go to Slippery’s. It’s right on the river, and on Saturdays, they have live music. There’s great food and outdoor seating,” Sylvester says. Shops downtown include a hardware store and a bookstore. Groceries are available at Wabasha Fresh Market. Winona has larger retailers like Walmart, Menards and Target.

Local World Gallery is a shop in downtown Wabasha that allows local artists to showcase and sell their work.
Local World Gallery is a shop in downtown Wabasha that allows local artists to showcase and sell their work.
Although a little further from the city center, Slippery's is a popular spot for Wabasha locals to enjoy a meal.
Although a little further from the city center, Slippery's is a popular spot for Wabasha locals to enjoy a meal.
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Events and attractions bring excitement to the riverfront town

Several events bring the community together throughout the year. The Grumpy Old Men Festival pays tribute to the movie and features an ice fishing tournament, a curling competition and a hotdish luncheon. Riverboat Days is an annual festival in July with a parade, 5K run and outdoor market. The National Eagle Center is a nonprofit organization in town with educational exhibits, rehabbing eagles and river cruises to eagle habitats.

The National Eagle Center in downtown Wabasha gives locals and visitors an opportunity to learn about eagles up close.
The National Eagle Center in downtown Wabasha gives locals and visitors an opportunity to learn about eagles up close.
The Wabasha Farmer's Market offers up fresh produce from local farmers from June to October.
The Wabasha Farmer's Market offers up fresh produce from local farmers from June to October.
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Wabasha-Kellogg schools offer several activities for students

Wabasha-Kellogg School District serves the community. Wabasha-Kellogg Elementary School serves prekindergarten through sixth grade and gets a B-minus from Niche. Wabasha-Kellogg High School also earns a B-minus and serves seventh through 12th grades. High school students can participate in clubs and activities like the National Honor Society, alpine skiing and trap shooting teams. The school also offers several dual credit programs, allowing students to earn college credit in high school.

Wabasha-Kellogg Schools is rated a B- overall by Niche.
Wabasha-Kellogg Schools is rated a B- overall by Niche.
Wabasha-Kellogg Schools houses their elementary, middle, and high schools.
Wabasha-Kellogg Schools houses their elementary, middle, and high schools.
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U.S. and state highways offer commutes through southeastern Minnesota

U.S. Route 61 passes through Wabasha, connecting to Winona about 32 miles south. Rochester is about 42 miles away via state Highway 42. Hiawathaland Transit offers on-demand service in the community, but there is no fixed-route public transit. Medical care is available at Gundersen St. Elizabeth’s Hospital on Grant Boulevard.

Matthew Atkins
Written By
Matthew Atkins
Charlie Lingner
Photography Contributed By
Charlie Lingner
Vladislav Sedykh
Video By
Vladislav Sedykh

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Sally Fischer, an experienced agent in this area.

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Wabasha Housing Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$275,000
Median Sale Price
$259,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$279,950
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$160,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
0%
Last 12 months Home Sales
43
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
8%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$173

Area Facts

Number of Homes
929
Number of Homes for Sale
18
Median Year Built
1963
Months of Supply
5.00
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
2,082
Above the national average
1,926
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
697
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,189
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
685
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
8,712

Open Houses

  • Saturday, Oct 25
    Open Sat 11AM - 12:15PM

    65911 144th Ave, Wabasha, MN 55981

    $365,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,344 Sq Ft
    • 65911 144th Ave
    • New 27 days ago

    Welcome to your dream home! This beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home sits on a spacious half-acre lot in a quiet, peaceful neighborhood — offering the perfect blend of comfort, style, and privacy. Step inside to discover a completely updated interior, featuring all-new finishes, flooring, fixtures, and appliances. The open floor plan creates a bright and welcoming atmosphere, ideal

    Vicki Nelson Elcor Realty of Rochester Inc.

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  • Friday, Oct 24
    Open Fri 4:30PM - 6PM

    1049 Talon Ave, Wabasha, MN 55981

    $299,000

    • 2 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 1,012 Sq Ft
    • 1049 Talon Ave

    This 3 year old home has been well maintained. It has a 12x16 deck with pergola and sunshade that stays with the home. The deck has beautiful views of a city park and the bluffs of Wisconsin. It has 2 bedrooms with the potential for a 4th bedroom home. It has 3 bathrooms, 2 on the upper level (one with a tub) and one lower level. There is a walk-in closet with the primary bedrooms. White

    Robin Gwaltney Re/Max Results

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  • Saturday, Oct 25
    Open Sat 10:30AM - 12PM

    717 Broadway Ave, Wabasha, MN 55981

    $284,900

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,396 Sq Ft
    • 717 Broadway Ave

    Charming and well maintained, this 1.5-story home offers timeless appeal with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a spacious 2-car detached garage and a brand new roof (Sept 2025). Mature trees frame the front walkway, creating a storybook entrance to a home filled with warmth and character. Inside, you'll find original hardwood floors, arched doorways, and rich wood trim that enhance the inviting living

    Beth Biever Re/Max Results

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Homes for Sale

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

Wabasha Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
2,922
Median Age
55
Population Density
7 ppl/acre
Population under 18
17.3%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
34.6%
Above the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$58,257
Below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$77,977

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
92.6%
College Graduates
29.2%
On par with the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
11%
% Population in Labor Force
54.1%
Below the national average
65.1%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
35''
Average Winter Low Temperature
11°F
Average Summer High Temperature
84°F
Annual Snowfall
42''

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®®

32 / 100

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®®

31 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the 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.
Wabasha