As the Twin Cities metro area continues to expand, more people are seeking space, family-friendly amenities, and modern conveniences in the surrounding suburbs. For those considering building or investing in a home in Minnesota, understanding these trends can help pinpoint the best location for long-term living. Here, we explore the fastest-growing cities in the Greater Minneapolis area and highlight what makes each an ideal choice for new homebuilders.
The Shift from Urban Centers to Suburbs in the Fastest-Growing Cities in Minneapolis
In recent years, the Twin Cities region has seen a notable shift, with growth slowing in the urban core of Minneapolis and St. Paul and picking up speed in outlying suburbs. According to the Metropolitan Council’s 2023 estimates, the seven-county metro area saw a net gain of nearly 60,000 new residents between 2020 and 2023, reaching a total population of 3.22 million. Much of this growth is happening in cities that offer more space, family-friendly environments, and easy access to amenities and nature. Let’s explore the top fastest-growing cities in the greater Minneapolis metro area.
These ten suburbs lead the way in the Twin Cities area, experiencing rapid growth due to their blend of family-friendly amenities, accessible commutes, and quality schools. Let’s dive into each city’s unique appeal, starting with the fastest-growing areas.
Top 10 Fastest-Growing Cities in the Twin Cities Metro for Building Your Dream Home
-
Corcoran
Population (2023): 8,019
Growth Rate (since 2020): +29.7% (+1,834 residents)Corcoran is a rapidly expanding city located about 20 miles northwest of Minneapolis. The city’s rolling hills, active local businesses, and blend of rural and suburban living make it an attractive place for those seeking tranquility close to urban amenities. Corcoran’s attractive growth is partly driven by affordable housing options, making it accessible to new families and first-time homeowners.
-
Dayton
Population (2023): 10,037
Growth Rate (since 2020) +39.2% (+2,825 residents)Dayton is experiencing significant growth, driven by its scenic beauty, rural charm, and increased housing developments. Located in Hennepin County, Dayton offers residents a peaceful retreat from city life while remaining within close proximity to key metro amenities.
-
Rogers
Population (2023): 14,934
Growth Rate (since 2020) +12.3% (+1,639 residents)Rogers is one of the fastest-growing cities in Minnesota, attracting families and professionals with its small-town charm and modern convenience. Rogers’ appeal lies in its strategic location near major highways, which allows residents quick access to Minneapolis and St. Paul, while still enjoying the peace of suburban living.
-
Lakeville
Population (2023): 75,217
Growth Rate (since 2020) +8.2% (+5,727 residents)Lakeville consistently ranks as the fastest-growing city in the Greater Minneapolis area. Known for its scenic parks, vibrant arts scene, and family-friendly atmosphere, Lakeville offers an attractive blend of suburban charm and modern amenities. Residents enjoy outdoor activities at Lakeville’s numerous parks like Steve Michaud Park and Ritter Farm Park. Lakeville’s Lakeville Area Arts Center and expansive community spaces cater to residents of all ages, with a focus on family-friendly events and gatherings.
-
Woodbury
Population (2023): 78,740
Growth Rate (since 2020) +4.8% (+3,638 residents)Woodbury is renowned for its high quality of life and upscale suburban living. This city draws residents with its excellent schools, ample shopping, and dining options, and proximity to both Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Woodbury’s parks and trails, such as Carver Lake Park, offer plenty of opportunities for recreation and outdoor adventures.
-
Chanhassen
Population (2023): 27,558
Growth Rate (since 2020) +12.6% (+3,081 residents)Chanhassen is known for its family-friendly environment, abundant parks, and vibrant cultural scene. Home to the renowned Chanhassen Dinner Theatres and scenic lakes, Chanhassen offers an ideal blend of suburban comfort and community events that appeal to families and professionals alike.
-
Blaine
Population (2023): 73,546
Growth Rate (since 2020) +4.7% (+3,324 residents)Blaine’s rapid transformation from a rural town to a bustling city is marked by its modern amenities and sports facilities. The city is home to the National Sports Center, the largest amateur sports facility in the country, making Blaine a paradise for sports enthusiasts. It’s a family-friendly community with growing commercial districts, beautiful parks, and outdoor spaces.
-
Maple Grove
Population (2023): 71,676
Growth Rate (since 2020) +19% (+1,423 residents)Maple Grove is a dynamic and growing suburb known for its excellent schools, parks, and shopping destinations like The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes. With an expanding commercial district and thriving neighborhoods, Maple Grove offers an ideal balance of suburban comfort and urban amenities.
-
Eden Prairie
Population (2023): 65,630
Growth Rate (since 2020) +3.9% (+2,456 residents)Eden Prairie is one of Minnesota’s best suburbs, recognized for its excellent schools, scenic parks, and modern conveniences. The city is known for its large community parks, robust shopping options, and proximity to both Minneapolis and Saint Paul, making it a top choice for new residents seeking a family-oriented lifestyle.
-
St. Louis Park
Population (2023): 50,010
Growth Rate (since 2020) +12% (+5,345 residents)St. Louis Park continues to attract new residents due to its central location, vibrant arts and culture scene, and walkable neighborhoods. The city’s proximity to downtown Minneapolis, coupled with diverse dining and shopping options, makes St. Louis Park a popular choice for those seeking a balanced urban-suburban lifestyle.
What’s Driving the Twin Cities’ Growth?
The Greater Minneapolis area is experiencing a population surge, especially in suburbs offering family-friendly environments, convenient access to nature, proximity to employment centers, and expanding real estate opportunities. Here’s a look at what’s fueling this growth and making these cities some of the best places to consider for building your dream home.
Family-Oriented Amenities and Top Minnesota Schools
Cities like Lakeville, Woodbury, and Blaine attract young families for a reason: their commitment to quality education and safe, supportive communities. Each city offers highly rated school districts, with facilities that encourage academic excellence, athletic participation, and arts education. This focus on education creates a nurturing environment that appeals to parents who prioritize their children’s growth and development.
Beyond schools, family-oriented amenities such as community centers, libraries, and recreational sports leagues foster a sense of belonging and community engagement. Woodbury’s Bielenberg Sports Center and Blaine’s National Sports Center are prime examples of large, accessible sports facilities where residents of all ages can participate in organized sports, fitness classes, and community events. These cities are perfect for families seeking a balanced, engaging lifestyle close to nature but with ample opportunities for social interaction and educational enrichment.
Access to Recreational Activities and Natural Beauty
The natural beauty surrounding these fast-growing cities is a big draw for outdoor enthusiasts. Parks, trails, lakes, and green spaces offer endless opportunities for year-round activities, from hiking and biking in the summer to ice skating and cross-country skiing in the winter. Great examples of this are Woodbury’s popular summer concert series, and Lakeville’s annual arts festival which draws locals and visitors alike, creating a strong community spirit.
- Lakeville’s Ritter Farm Park: This park is ideal for family outings and solo escapes alike. With trails winding through wetlands and forests, residents can enjoy everything from scenic hikes to wildlife observation.
- Blaine’s Aquatore Park: As a favorite spot for outdoor gatherings, Aquatore Park features picnic areas, playgrounds, and open spaces for community events and family gatherings.
- Woodbury’s Carver Lake Park: Nestled along a beautiful lake, this park offers trails, fishing, swimming, and even mountain biking – a variety of activities that attract both families and adventurous individuals.
These parks and recreational areas give residents convenient access to the outdoors, offering a balance between suburban life and nature. With many cities investing in the development and maintenance of these outdoor spaces, the quality of life for residents continues to rise.
Proximity to Employment Centers and Major Highways
While residents are moving to the suburbs, proximity to work and Twin Cities’ amenities remains essential. Cities like Lakeville and Woodbury offer quick access to major highways, making commuting to downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul relatively convenient. For example, Lakeville residents can easily access I-35, while Woodbury benefits from the direct routes offered by I-494 and I-94, providing convenient commutes to Minneapolis and St. Paul.
This proximity to major highways and transit hubs also means that residents can enjoy suburban tranquility without sacrificing urban convenience. Many of these cities are also investing in public transportation options, ensuring that as they grow, they remain accessible for those who commute or need regular access to the city for work, cultural events, or shopping.
Booming Real Estate Market and New Developments
The real estate market is a vital driver of growth in these communities, with new developments popping up to meet the high demand for suburban homes. From single-family houses to townhouses and luxury estates, cities like Dayton, Lakeville, and Corcoran are expanding their residential areas with community-focused designs, featuring dedicated parks, trails, and gathering spaces that foster neighborhood connections.
Many of these developments are designed with community living in mind, featuring neighborhoods with dedicated parks, trails, and social spaces that enhance the living experience. For example:
- Dayton is seeing a transformation with new housing projects that focus on preserving green spaces while providing modern amenities.
- Lakeville continues to thrive with developments that cater to families, such as homes with larger lots, access to community parks, and neighborhood schools.
- Corcoran’s rapid expansion reflects a mix of rural charm with newer residential communities, creating an appealing setting for those who want a more tranquil environment without sacrificing modern conveniences.
For investors and new residents alike, these developments make suburbs in the Twin Cities metro area an attractive option. The dedication to sustainable growth, diverse communities, and high-quality developments makes these Twin Cities suburbs not only desirable but also a wise long-term investment.
A Balanced Lifestyle for All Ages
Whether you’re a young professional, a family with children, or a retiree, these growing suburbs offer something for everyone. With a variety of housing options, access to quality healthcare, nearby shopping and dining, and a strong sense of community, these cities provide an ideal environment for building a new home.
From Corcoran’s peaceful settings to Woodbury’s vibrant suburban life, these suburbs stand out for their livability and commitment to growth that enhances the community. With ongoing infrastructure development and a shared commitment to sustainability and family-oriented amenities, these fast-growing cities in the Twin Cities metro area present a unique opportunity for anyone looking to settle down and build a lasting home.
Why Build in These Fast-Growing Cities?
For families, professionals, and retirees alike, the fastest-growing cities in the Twin Cities metro area offer a winning combination of lifestyle benefits. With spacious properties, modern homes, excellent schools, and access to parks and outdoor activities, these suburbs are perfect for building your dream home. Moreover, the steady population growth in these cities suggests that property values are likely to appreciate, making them a smart investment choice.
Build Your Custom Home in Minnesota’s Fastest-Growing Cities
These top 10 fastest-growing cities in the Twin Cities metro area offer an appealing mix of suburban comfort, scenic beauty, and modern amenities. Whether you’re drawn to the family-friendly parks of Lakeville, the upscale living in Woodbury, or the small-town charm of Dayton and Rogers, these cities present ideal opportunities for building your dream home.
By focusing on expanding infrastructure, investing in quality schools, and offering a range of outdoor activities, these thriving communities continue to attract new residents. With the potential for steady property value appreciation, now is the perfect time to explore your options and build in one of these booming suburbs.
Explore our network of trusted home builders today and begin your journey in one of Minnesota’s fastest-growing cities!
The Twin Cities suburbs are thriving, and there’s never been a better time to build. For families, professionals, and retirees alike, the fastest-growing cities in the Twin Cities metro area offer a winning combination of lifestyle benefits, and HomeBuildersMN can connect you with builders who specialize in making your vision a reality. If you’re considering building a custom home in one of these thriving communities, HomeBuildersMN.com is your trusted resource. Our network of vetted builders specializes in these fastest-growing cities in Greater Minneapolis, ensuring a seamless experience that meets the unique demands of each market. Connect with HomeBuildersMN.com today to start building in one of the fastest-growing suburbs of the Twin Cities metro and turn your dream home into reality with a trusted local builder.
