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Residential Living

The Saint Paul/East Metro area is booming and providing a wide range of choices for those looking to live in the region. With more than 1.1 million people, the community enjoys a wealth of diversity and remains one of the best places to live in the United States due to low crime, affordable housing, excellent schools and a strong economy. Nearly 75 percent of Minnesotans own their own home (more than anywhere else in the U.S.). This is due, in part, to the median home price in the Twin Cities, which is less than other major urban centers — according to the National Association of Realtors.

Set against the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers (which flow through Dakota, Washington and Ramsey counties), the area is a vibrant destination for recreation and a fine setting for a variety of housing. Long-range vision in community management is evident in the Saint Paul/ East Metro by the conservation of open space married with productive redevelopment of urban areas.

Saint Paul itself is known as a city of neighborhoods, each offering distinct amenities and having their own character. From the curving, tree-lined streets of Saint Anthony Park to the diversity and vibrancy of the West Side or the grandeur of Summit Avenue, there are housing options and prices for everyone. Downtown Saint Paul has also become a hot housing market with young educated workers snapping up new lofts in converted historic buildings to families and seniors settling in new housing along the Mississippi River.

From the quaint established neighborhoods of Saint Paul to the lively downtown area to the nearby thriving suburbs, the Saint Paul/East Metro area continues to remain energetic.

RAMSEY COUNTY COMMUNITIES
www.co.ramsey.mn.us
Ramsey County, the smallest and most densely populated of the Saint Paul/East Metro area counties, was named after Alexander Ramsey, who had a significant impact on shaping the history of the state as the first governor of the original Minnesota Territory, the second mayor of Saint Paul and the second governor of the state of Minnesota. He later served as a U.S. senator and secretary of war. Ramsey County continues to grow at a steady pace — the population increased just over five percent to more than 500,000 people in the 2000 census, but is expected to add more than 80,000 people by 2030. Ramsey County is also expected to add more than 100,000 jobs by 2030.

ARDEN HILLS
Population: 9,692
www.ci.arden-hills.mn.us
Arden Hills is a beautiful community where lakes, trails and neighborhood parks provide a backdrop for strong, active and diverse neighborhoods. The community started as a resting point for Sioux Indian families on their way north for the fall wild rice harvest. This lovely community northwest of Saint Paul has a well-blended combination of residential and business districts. Attractive residential areas of moderate to expensive homes are bounded by several parks and recreation areas including the beautiful shores of Lake Johanna and Lake Josephine. The city is home to two colleges — Bethel and Northwestern. It is also home to several major corporate headquarters, including Land O’ Lakes, Boston Scientific and Celestica. Arden Hills is currently in the midst of development plans for the former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant (TCAAP) site. The development of this 585-acre site is expected to grow the city’s population by 50 percent and double its tax base.

FALCON HEIGHTS
Population: 5,572
www.ci.falcon-heights.mn.us
Home to the Minnesota State Fair, Falcon Heights hosts nearly two million people every year in August for “The Great Minnesota Get Together.” The Fair, two glorious weeks of fun, is the second largest state fair in the U.S. The city is also the home to the University of Minnesota’s Saint Paul campus, which houses the colleges of agriculture, biological sciences, natural resources and veterinary medicine — as well as the university’s 18-hole golf course and driving range. Falcon Heights has earned the designation as a “Tree City, USA,” and the lovely tree lined streets bring grace and beauty to the city year round. It is also home to the historic Gibbs Farm Museum, which showcases a slice of Dakota Indian and pioneer life. The recent Falcon Heights Town Square mixed-use development has added new retail and more than 170 households to Falcon Heights, including apartments and townhomes.

LAUDERDALE
Population: 2,364
www.ci.lauderdale.mn.us
Tucked between Saint Paul, Roseville and Falcon Heights, the small community of Lauderdale sees itself as an “island in the metro.” This tiny city is four tenths of a square mile in size and is home to several community parks that are attractive to families. The city also has distinct neighborhoods and diversity in housing and population.

LITTLE CANADA
Population: 9,771
www.ci.little-canada.mn.us
Historic Little Canada is a perfect blend of old and new. First settled in 1844, it is one of the oldest communities in Minnesota. The community is centrally located on the northeast hub of the freeway system providing easy access to both Saint Paul and Minneapolis. Little Canada provides a full range of housing options — affordable single family homes, upscale executive style homes, townhomes, apartment communities, condominiums and senior housing. Little Canada has excellent public and private elementary schools and a beautiful park and trail system. The city celebrates summer and its heritage with its annual Canadian Days festival. Little Canada is home to several key employers, including St. Jude Medical and Olsen Thielen & Co. Ltd. The downtown area has been recently renovated and several new retailers have sparked growth in the community.

MAPLEWOOD
Population: 34,900
www.ci.maplewood.mn.us
Maplewood is the largest suburban community in Ramsey County and one of the fastest growing. It borders Saint Paul to the north and east, and is linked to the greater metro area by several major freeways — Interstates 94, 494, 694 and 35E and Highways 36 and 61. It is the home of the Maplewood Mall — a vibrant shopping mall that supports a large variety of retailers, including Macy’s, Kohl’s, Sears, JC Penney and specialty stores. Just west of the Maplewood Mall is the 86.8-acre Legacy Village site. The mixed-use development will include commercial/ office space, medical/office space, retail/restaurants and 850 housing units. Maplewood has an excellent school system, established city park and recreation programs and several community recreation facilities, including the Maplewood Community Center and Battle Creek Recreation areas — both of which house dynamic water parks. The community is the home to large and small employers, including 3M, Schroeder Company Inc. and St. John’s Northeast Hospital.

MOUNDS VIEW
Population: 12,500
www.ci.mounds-view.mn.us
Mounds View was named for large earthen mounds that were visible for miles, and is known for its grand oak trees and natural wetland areas. Mounds View is centrally located north of Saint Paul and offers easy access to Interstate 35E and Highway 10. Mounds View has a reputation for being a great place to locate a business and is home to the Mounds View Business Park — which continues to attract quality businesses to the area. It is also home to major restaurant supplier SYSCO Minnesota. Mounds View has nine city parks and has been awarded the distinction of a “Tree City, USA.” The city’s excellent public and private schools are known for academic excellence. The abundance of recreation, diverse businesses and excellent schools all contribute to a safe and affordable living and working environment.

NEW BRIGHTON
Population: 26,200
www.ci.new-brighton.mn.us
New Brighton enjoys a central location affording its residents easy access to freeways and the downtown areas. It has miles of recreational trails and many municipal parks, including the 200-acre Long Lake Regional Park and has been awarded the distinction of “Tree City, USA.” The city celebrates its history and shows community pride every August during the Stockyard Days Festival and the annual New London to New Brighton Antique Car Run.

NORTH OAKS
Population: 4,000
www.cityofnorth-oaks.com
North Oaks is a uniquely planned community that combines residential sites and an 18-hole golf course on the former estate of James J. Hill (a driving force in the development of the area in the late 1800s and an entrepreneur and developer of steamboat and railway transportation). The community offers an exclusive, quiet residential environment that is characterized by large lots and a high degree of privacy. North Oaks has 45 miles of private roads, which are maintained by an active homeowners association. The North Oaks lifestyle experience combines a beautiful and private natural environment with lakes, ski and nature trails, tennis courts, hockey rinks and golf courses.

NORTH SAINT PAUL
Population: 11,929
www.ci.north-saint-paul.mn.us
Founded in 1870, North Saint Paul is one of the original communities in Ramsey County. The community retains its small- town ambience even though it’s part of a bustling metropolitan community 10 miles north of Saint Paul along the shores of Silver Lake. North Saint Paul supports its own downtown area, which offers a variety of unique eateries, gathering spots, entertainment and shopping venues. More than 15 community organizations provide a wide range of social and civic activities by sponsoring events throughout the year. Lillie Suburban Newspapers Inc. is located in North Saint Paul.

ROSEVILLE
Population: 35,000
www.ci.roseville.mn.us
Roseville is located just to the north of Saint Paul and is a 10-minute commute from the downtown area. Residents enjoy easy access to all major metro freeways. Roseville is the home of one of the area’s largest shopping malls, Rosedale Center, which provides a wide variety of retail options to the community. Roseville is also the home of the Harriet Alexander Nature Center (a cornerstone of an extensive park system that takes advantage of several beautiful lakes and affords access to beaches and water sports) and the John Rose Oval skating center—a year-round facility. There are more than 20 parks that provide outdoor concerts, entertainment, fishing, boating and swimming. There are several golf courses for novice and expert golfers alike. Several major corporations have operations in Roseville, including McGough Construction Co. Inc, Ecolab, Target and Xcel Energy Inc.

SAINT PAUL
Population: 287,151
www.stpaul.gov
Saint Paul, Minnesota’s capital, is
recognized as one of the most livable cities in the United States. It is a “big small town” with attractive safe neighborhoods and a forward-thinking vibrant business community. Saint Paul has several city and regional parks and has received the distinction of “Tree City, USA” for 25 years. It is home to several leading colleges and universities, including the University of Minnesota, the University of St. Thomas, Hamline University, Macalester College and the College of Saint Catherine. Its distinctive neighborhoods (like Grand Avenue, Highland Park, West Seventh Street area and Cathedral Hill) provide one-of-a-kind shopping, dining and entertainment experiences. The downtown area has a thriving arts community and several cultural venues, including the Ordway Centre for the Performing Arts — home to the world renowned Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, the Science Museum of Minnesota, the Minnesota Children’s Museum and the Minnesota Historical Society. There are also many smaller theaters and performance venues. Saint Paul is focused on being a great home to businesses large and small. Corporate headquarters that make their home here include Ecolab, Travelers, Lawson Software, Securian and 3M.

The city is also home to several professional sports teams, including the Minnesota Wild professional hockey team with home ice at Xcel Energy Center, and the Saint Paul Saints minor league baseball team, which plays home games at Midway Stadium. Saint Paul is a city that shows its pride in its history, its majestic river, its thriving downtown, its colorful and diverse neighborhoods and its caring people.

SHOREVIEW
Population: 27,000
www.ci.shoreview.mn.us
Shoreview occupies the northern border of Ramsey County. Just 10 miles north of downtown Saint Paul, Shoreview’s location allows for easy access to the greater metro area. Shoreview is known for its outdoor spaces and its 11 lakes, numerous parks and trails that provide the community with an abundance of outdoor activities. The Shoreview Community Center (located in the heart of the Shoreview Community Commons Campus) offers a fitness center, leisure activities, community education and involvement, the Tropics Indoor Water Park, meeting rooms and banquet facilities. Major employers in the city include Wells Fargo, Deluxe Corp., Rainbow Foods and Nardini Fire Equipment.

VADNAIS HEIGHTS
Population: 13,069
www.ci.vadnais-heights.mn.us
Vadnais Heights is a beautiful community that has dedicated over one-third of its land to open space. The city is appealing to residents because of its wide array of housing options and is located with easy access to Interstates 35E and 694. The city is home to 11 city parks and to Sucker Lake Park, a pristine 700-acre recreation area owned and operated by the Saint Paul Water Utility. The active community shows its civic pride with two vibrant festivals — Heritage Days and Taste of Vadnais Heights.

WHITE BEAR LAKE
Population: 28,000
www.ci.white-bear-lake.mn.us
Located 20 minutes north of Saint Paul, White Bear Lake is a warm, family-oriented community with a dynamic thriving business district, a unique downtown and beautiful residential areas. The 2,500-acre lake, which is the center of the community, offers fishing, boating and swimming and has been awarded the distinction of “Tree City, USA” 19 times. White Bear Lake is also rich in pioneer and Native American history. The area was a summer vacation destination for many, and was the summer home to F. Scott Fitzgerald. The area touched Mark Twain, who wrote of the lake’s beauty. Summer provides a backdrop for many outdoor celebrations that take advantage of the welcoming White Bear Lake atmosphere, including the annual community fair, Manitou Days (which features parades, beach dances and arts and crafts), Family Fun Day and Marketfest. The business environment thrives with many employers, including Weyerhauser Corporation, and Smart Carte Inc.

DAKOTA COUNTY COMMUNITIES
www.co.dakota.mn.us
Dakota County is one of the fastest growing counties in the region and expects to add more than 170,000 people by 2030. About 60,000 more jobs are expected to be added in Dakota County over the same period. Named after the Dakota people who lived in Minnesota and surrounding states, Dakota County is located south of downtown Saint Paul. The beautiful Minnesota and Mississippi rivers form the county’s northern and eastern borders. Throughout the years, Dakota County has been home to several waves of immigration. Some of the earliest immigrants to Dakota County were the French-Canadians who came to trade for furs with the Dakota people. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, people began to come from eastern European nations to work for the railroads or the packinghouses in South Saint Paul. The 20th and 21st centuries have seen immigration from Mexico, Laos and Somalia, in addition to migration from the larger metropolitan areas.

In this once predominantly agricultural county where earlier generations earned their living from the land, many of Dakota County’s residents now earn their living elsewhere. The population of the county has increased dramatically to 335,904 in recent years.

APPLE VALLEY
Population: 45,505
www.ci.apple-valley.mn.us
Apple Valley combines the best elements of modern life with the strong community orientation of an old-fashioned small town. Located 20 minutes from both downtown Saint Paul and downtown Minneapolis, and 15 minutes from the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, the city offers convenience of the larger cities while maintaining a sense of community. The main street of downtown is pedestrian friendly with extra-wide sidewalks, decorative lamps and trees. Shopping of all kinds, banking, restaurants, doctors’ offices, a movie theater and car dealerships all call this part of the city home.

Quiet residential neighborhoods surround the commercial center of the city and bump up against the campus of Apple Valley High School. Apple Valley takes its name from the development of its first neighborhoods. This friendly family- oriented community offers a variety of affordable housing options situated in wooded areas and with easy access to neighborhood lakes and parks. Apple Valley has been awarded the distinction of a “Tree City, USA.”

BURNSVILLE
Population: 60,434
www.ci.burnsville.mn.us
Initially a small Irish farming community, Burnsville has grown to become the 10th largest city in Minnesota. Located just 20 minutes south of downtown Minneapolis and Saint Paul, this city offers well-planned housing, award-winning educational opportunities, a variety of recreational facilities (including more than 1,700 acres of parks and wildlife areas) and a well-developed commercial/industrial sector — which ranks eighth in the state in number of manufacturing firms. Burnsville’s south central location puts it at around 15 minutes from the Minnesota Zoological Gardens, Valleyfair Amusement Park, Mystic Lake Casino, the Renaissance Festival and Mall of America. Major area employers include B.F. Goodrich, Fairview Ridges Hospital, Yellow Freight System, PepsiCola Co. and Rupp Industries. Ranked fourth in the state in retail sales, Burnsville offers many shopping opportunities — including Burnsville Center, a regional shopping mall that attracts more than 2.2 million people annually.

EAGAN
Population: 66,953
www.ci.eagan.mn.us
Eagan is a dynamic growing community that is home to many young families and is now the eighth largest city in Minnesota. Incorporated in 1974, the city is committed to strict land use planning, maintaining open space and a high quality of life. The city has been awarded the distinction of “Tree City, USA.” Lebanon Hills Regional Park and Cascade Bay Water Park offer unique outdoor recreation for visitors and residents. Eagan offers convenient access to Interstate 494, 35E and Cedar Avenue, and has a strong business presence with Northwest Airlines, Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Minnesota, Thomson/West Group, Midwest Coca-Cola Bottling and United Parcel Service.

FARMINGTON
Population: 19,000
www.ci.farmington.mn.us
Farmington, as its name suggests, is located in the midst of Minnesota farmland. Established in 1854, it was the second largest community in the county at the turn of the century; now its residents still enjoy the small-town ambience of its historic downtown and neighborhood streets. Only 30 minutes south of the Twin Cities, Farmington combines small-town living with big city access. Farmington is rapidly growing, and has been attracting young families with its excellent schools, local hospital, strong sports programs, miles of paved trails and variety of community activities. The city also offers many recreational opportunities— including beautiful parks, tennis courts, a bowling alley, an ice arena and two privately owned golf courses. Farmington has received the distinction of “Tree City, USA.”

HASTINGS
Population: 20,000
www.ci.hastings.mn.us
This historic community rests on the bluffs at the junction of the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers southeast of the metro area. Victorian homes on tree-lined neighborhoods, a classic Main Street downtown and the 1871 County Courthouse maintain Hastings’ distinctive small-town character. At the same time, Hastings continues to grow with steady residential, commercial/industrial development activity and expanded use of public and institutional lands. Year-round recreational activities for all ages abound in Hastings, with more than 20 local parks and miles of trails — biking, golfing, skiing, hiking, fishing and boating are popular. Hastings has received the distinction of “Tree City, USA.” Residents also benefit from quality schools: Hastings Senior High School has been honored by the U.S. Department of Education as a National School of Excellence, and Hastings Middle School is among the few schools to earn this recognition three times.

INVER GROVE HEIGHTS
Population: 30,000
www.ci.inver-grove-heights.mn.us
Just five miles south of downtown Saint Paul, Inver Grove Heights offers a semi-rural environment that includes various types of hobby farms. Attracted by the rolling green hills of the countryside and the close proximity to the Mississippi River, Irish and German pioneers settled the area in 1852. The community celebrates with Inver Grove Heights Days every September. The area offers a full range of housing opportunities and quality public schools, and Inver Hills Community College provides additional educational opportunities. Many strong recreational programs are available in the community as well.

LAKEVILLE
Population: 46,453
www.ci.lakeville.mn.us
Located in the southeast corner of the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area, Lakeville is a fast-growing community, offering a well-balanced atmosphere of planned development and managed growth coupled with a respect for its rural history and an appreciation of the city’s beautiful environment. At one time, Lakeville was a rural community that serviced surrounding agricultural activities. In recent years, convenient access to the metropolitan area has stimulated both residential and commercial growth. The community has abundant open spaces, lakes and parks, making it especially attractive to young families. Convenient shopping can be found in downtown Lakeville, the Southfork area, Cedar Avenue and near Interstate 35 and Highway 70. With the cooperation of the city, businesses and residents, the community celebrates annually with its Panorama of Progress early in July. The weeklong celebration features activities and events for all ages. Lakeville is home to a variety of companies from Menasha Corporation to AT&T Wireless.

LILYDALE
Population: 600
lilydale.govoffice.com
Lilydale is a primarily residential town situated between Mendota and Mendota Heights, and offers access to the Mississippi River. The community continues to grow residentially and makes use of its beautiful river bluff setting for executive homes.

MENDOTA
Population: 197
www.mendotamn.org
Located at the juncture of the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers, Mendota is a Dakota word that means “meeting of the waters.” This small town was once a trading-post village and the center of the Red River fur trade in the 1830s. Sibley House Museum (the first stone house in Minnesota) was built in 1835 by Henry Sibley, a pioneer fur trader and the first governor of Minnesota.

MENDOTA HEIGHTS
Population: 11,434
www.mendota-heights.com
Mendota Heights is located at the juncture of the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers. South of Saint Paul, Mendota Heights is primarily a community of young families. Several excellent private schools are located in Mendota Heights, including Visitation and Saint Thomas Academy. Major companies that call the community home include State Farm Insurance. Area shopping centers include Signal Hills and Mendota Plaza.

ROSEMOUNT
Population: 16,800
www.ci.rosemount.mn.us
Rosemount, a town rich in Irish heritage, is located 15 miles south of the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. The city combines industry, agriculture and agricultural research with a rapidly growing residential community to provide an excellent environment in which to live and work.

Expanding residential neighborhoods offer many housing options — including single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums, affordable housing and a senior citizen center. Award-winning public and private schools provide both children and adults with superb educational opportunities. Dakota County Technical College serves area residents and is one of the largest technical colleges in the state. A strong united business community has been achieved in Rosemount with large manufacturers like Flint Hills to small businesses. Spring Lake Park Regional Preserve has 270 acres for open-space uses, and the city maintains 16 municipal parks with trails, ice rinks, ballparks and a multi-use community center. Rosemount has received the distinction of “Tree City, USA.” Residents can also enjoy a game of golf on the 27-hole public course or on a 9-hole private course.

SOUTH SAINT PAUL
Population: 20,197
www.southstpaul.org
South Saint Paul is conveniently located near Interstate 494 with easy access to the entire metro area. South Saint Paul offers recreational and cultural activities to build community pride, and a good local school system adds to the appeal of small-town living near the Twin Cities. Many businesses are attracted to the city’s industrial area because of its proximity to downtown Saint Paul.

SUNFISH LAKE
Population: 525
www.sunfishlake.org
Located five miles south of Saint Paul, Sunfish Lake is a residential neighborhood with preserved open spaces and large homes on wooded lots. First incorporated as a village in 1958, Sunfish Lake has maintained its rural atmosphere with large lot size and as little disturbance to the natural environment as possible.

WEST SAINT PAUL
Population: 19,496
www.ci.west-saint-paul.mn.us
Adjacent to the cities of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, West Saint Paul offers the tranquility and beauty of the country and the diverse amenities of the city. Lush green fields, lakes and wildlife are minutes from a variety of stores, restaurants, theaters and educational institutions. The public school system is highly regarded, and the community is home to several excellent private schools as well. West Saint Paul has more than 600 businesses. The West Saint Paul community offers many recreation opportunities, including biking, cross-country skiing, hiking and golfing at public and private courses.

It is also home to the Dodge Nature Center and a number of city parks. South Robert Street offers many shopping venues and restaurants.

WASHINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITIES
www.co.washington.mn.us
Washington County is one of the fastest growing residential centers in Minnesota. Located on the eastern edge of the state, Washington County’s quality of life has spurred a steady growth of single and multi-family housing, unsurpassed retail growth, low crime rates and affordable tax rates. Incorporated in 1849, Washington County’s 423-square miles is now home to more than 201,000 people and expects another 160,000 to join by 2030. One of the fastest growing parts of the Twin Cities, Washington County will double its employment base between 2000 and 2030. With its high-quality lakes, woodlands, wetlands, historical sites and two nationally significant river valleys, Washington County attracts a variety of employers and a skilled workforce.

AFTON
Population: 2,919
www.cityofafton.net
A quaint, historical, residential community on the St. Croix River, Afton is home to charming residences and shops. It is the home of Afton Alps, a diverse recreation area that affords quick access to affordable skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking and golfing just minutes from the metro area. Afton’s convenient access to the river brings fun for residents and visitors in the summer months. The downtown area is home to quaint shops that provide a wonderful place to stop during a summer drive.

BAYPORT
Population: 3,156
www.bayport.govoffice.com
Bayport is a small river town located southeast of Saint Paul on the St. Croix River. The city values its friendly, safe, family-oriented community life. Bayport has much to offer residents, businesses and visitors. Its Lakeside Park on the St. Croix River has a swimming beach and pavilions that can be rented from city hall. Bayport is also home to major window manufacturer, Andersen Corporation.

COTTAGE GROVE
Population: 30,582
www.cottage-grove.org
First settled in the 1840s, Cottage Grove has a booming manufacturing and retail economy and is one of the fastest-growing communities in Minnesota. Located eight miles southeast of the Twin Cities, Cottage Grove is conveniently located for industry, commercial activities and housing. The Cottage Grove community offers various recreational activities, including golf courses, area parks and swimming pools.

FOREST LAKE
Population: 15,800
www.ci.forest-lake.mn.us
Spread across three counties, Forest Lake is located 25 miles north on Interstate 35. Forest Lake is a family-oriented, fast- growing residential community that features excellent schools, community sports and recreational activities. The city holds one of the state’s oldest and largest July Fourth celebrations each summer, and winter months are filled with events — including a local ice fishing contest and snowmobile speed run. The community’s motto — “A city for all Seasons” — fits the breadth of opportunities available for residents and visitors to the area.

HUGO
Population: 8,000
www.ci.hugo.mn.us
Located 20 miles north of downtown Saint Paul, Hugo is a growing community where residents enjoy excellent schools and a variety of housing options. Like many communities in the Saint Paul/East Metro area, Hugo enjoys a small-town atmosphere with the benefits and resources of the large metro area. The nearby Tamarack Nature Center is a great destination for outdoor recreation. The city’s combination of open space, lakes and attractive residential neighborhoods continue to be a magnet for new residents and businesses.

LAKE ELMO
Population: 7,966
www.lakeelmo.org
Lake Elmo is a fast-growing residential suburb with a small downtown. Located east of Saint Paul, the community prides itself on its value and retention of lakes and woodland open space. The area is known for the Lake Elmo Park Reserve, a beautiful wooded and open area that features two large lakes. The park reserve offers archery, fishing, boating, camping (in a modern campground), picnic and swimming areas, bike and hiking trails and a fantastic play structure. The city has been designated a “Tree City, USA.” The new city hall extension adds a prominent entryway to the Main Street area, forming a distinctive landmark that links the old and new sections of the village. Lake Elmo is also the county seat and home to the Washington County Fair each August.

LAKELAND
Population: 1,937
www.lakeland.govoffice.com
The City of Lakeland is a quiet, mostly residential community nestled on 1,328 acres along the west bank of the St. Croix River. Located 16 miles east of Saint Paul, the city provides small-town living with the convenience and benefit of a large city and services nearby. The story of Lakeland begins in the early 1800s when logging interests spurred the first non-native settlements in the area. The loggers were soon followed by settlers who built supply stores, churches, a school and a saloon. By the 1850s, the loggers had moved on, leaving a small but vigorous agricultural and rural residential community. To this day, Lakeland remains a quiet residential community with the river providing summer recreation and a year-round spectacular view.

LANDFALL
Population: 734
Landfall is a small residential community east of Saint Paul near the site of the 3M campus.

MAHTOMEDI
Population: 7,977
www.ci.mahtomedi.mn.us
Mahtomedi, located on the east shore of White Bear Lake, is a short 20-minute commute to the metro area. The city covers four square miles and is home to a growing business community. Mahtomedi offers a variety of recreational opportunities, increasing home values and a quality school district. The Mahtomedi School District and Century College offer educational excellence in a wide variety of interest areas and concentrations. Residents appreciate the community’s small-town charm, lakeside ambiance and proximity.

MARINE ON ST. CROIX
Population: 700
www.marine.govoffice.com
Marine on St. Croix is a beautiful, residential community on the St. Croix River. It has a rich history of early pioneer river commerce and lumber milling. A drive along the river brings visitors to the quaint downtown area. Residents enjoy the beautiful small-town ambience with the benefits of a short drive to the metro area.

NEWPORT
Population: 3,715
www.newport.govoffice.com
Newport is a small, residential community with neighborhood streets bordered by large trees that wind their way along the river’s edge and the blufflands. Newport retains its small-town persona even though it is only a 15-minute commute to Saint Paul. Newport continues to encourage growth and development within the
community.

OAK PARK HEIGHTS
Population: 4,033
www.cityofoakparkheights.com
Oak Park Heights is located along the scenic St. Croix River approximately 20 miles east of Saint Paul. Founded in 1857, the city offers a high quality of life, excellent schools, many parks and excellent healthcare facilities. The city has received the distinction of “Tree City, USA.” Oak Park Heights is a highly diversified community and is home to a large commercial/retail area with many national corporations and local businesses — including Andersen Corporation, Xcel Energy Inc., Wal-Mart and Rainbow Foods. Recent developments in the city include Boutwell’s Landing, a multimillion-dollar senior living community; the Shoppes of Oak Park Heights, which is anchored by a Kohl’s department store; and a Kowalski’s grocery store. Two fast food restaurant buildings have recently opened on Neal Avenue, and each building houses two restaurants.

OAKDALE
Population: 27,000
www.ci.oakdale.mn.us
The community of Oakdale is located east of downtown Saint Paul off of Interstate 694. Mature neighborhoods and established retail and service areas — sprinkled with new housing developments and business districts — make Oakdale a nice place to live. Oakdale’s schools helped to pioneer education requirements for minimum achievement levels in arithmetic, reading and writing. Nearby 3M is a major force in the area, and a new industrial office space at Oakdale Crossing Business Park and Granada Business Park attracts new businesses to Oakdale. The community has more than 400 acres of parkland and a variety of recreational facilities — including a new golf course, a nature center and swimming and fishing in Tanners Lake. Oakdale has received the distinction of “Tree City, USA” several times.