Living in Stillwater, MN: The Gem of the St. Croix Valley

It’s one thing to spend a sunny Saturday afternoon eating ice cream by the Historic Lift Bridge, but it is an entirely different experience to call this river town home. Known as the "Birthplace of Minnesota," Stillwater manages to balance being a major tourist destination with being a functioning, grounded community.

For many buyers, the appeal here is the ability to live in a place that feels like a permanent vacation spot while still having a reasonable commute to the Twin Cities. It sits right on the St. Croix River, bordering Wisconsin, and serves as a gateway between the metro area and the western Wisconsin woodlands. 

If you are looking for that small-town "Hallmark movie" vibe but don't want to sacrifice Target, high-speed internet, or access to St. Paul, living in Stillwater might be your perfect middle ground.

The St. Croix River isn't just a backdrop here; it dictates the lifestyle. For residents, the river culture is central to daily life, whether that means keeping a pontoon at a local marina, kayaking on quiet mornings, or just enjoying the view during a dinner downtown.

Speaking of downtown, there is a common misconception that Main Street is only for tourists. While summer weekends get busy, locals know the rhythm of the town. We enjoy the walkable antique shops, the diverse coffee spots, and the dining scene on Tuesday nights or crisp autumn mornings before the crowds arrive.

There is also a fierce sense of local pride here. This is a town that shows up for its community. From the massive 4th of July fireworks and Lumberjack Days to the Winter Ice Castles, the calendar is packed. It’s a place where neighbors tend to know each other, and there is a high level of engagement in local preservation and events.

Let’s talk numbers. Because of its scenery, history, and distinct character, Stillwater is generally a premium market compared to your standard Twin Cities suburb. You are paying for the "River Town" label and the lifestyle that comes with it.

Housing prices here typically sit higher than the Minnesota average. You will find that demand is consistent, keeping values strong. While the market fluctuates, you can generally expect median home prices to hover in the mid-$400s to high-$400s range. If you are looking for river views or historic mansions, the price tag goes up significantly from there.

The rental market can be a bit tricky. Inventory for apartments—especially ones that are updated and affordable—can be tight. However, we are seeing more luxury apartment buildings popping up near downtown and on the west side, with rents often landing between $1,600 and $1,800 a month depending on the unit size and amenities.

When budgeting, keep in mind that general expenses like groceries and utilities are comparable to the rest of the metro. However, you should keep an eye on property taxes in Washington County, which can vary based on the school district levies and recent assessments.

Stillwater isn't just one single neighborhood; it has three very distinct "personalities" depending on where you look.

This is the Stillwater you see on postcards. These neighborhoods are perched on the steep bluffs overlooking the river and downtown. Here, you will find stunning Victorian mansions, narrow streets, and incredible character.

Once you move west away from the river, the town feels more like an established, comfortable suburb. Neighborhoods like Croixwood feature builds from the 1970s through the 1990s.

If you keep heading west toward Lake Elmo, you hit the newer construction. Communities like Liberty on the Lake offer a completely different experience with master-planned amenities.

For many households, the local schools are a primary driver for moving here. The Stillwater Area Public Schools (ISD 834), widely known as the "Ponies," cover a large geographic area and are a focal point of community identity.

Stillwater Area High School is the hub of the district. It is known for offering a massive variety of AP courses, arts programs, and a very strong athletic tradition. Friday night football games are a genuine community event here.

Beyond the public system, there are several charter schools and private options in the area, such as St. Croix Catholic School, giving parents distinct choices. Generally speaking, parental involvement is high across the board, and support for school levies and events is strong.

If you are commuting for work, your relationship with Stillwater will depend entirely on Highway 36. This is the main artery connecting the town to the rest of the world.

For those who prefer two wheels over four, the Gateway State Trail is a massive perk. It’s a paved multi-use trail that connects Stillwater all the way to St. Paul. We see plenty of residents who actually bike commute to the city or use it for long weekend rides.

Every town has its quirks, and it is important to go into a purchase with your eyes open. Here is an honest look at the trade-offs.

The Pros:

The Cons:

The best part about living here is that you don't really need to leave town to find something to do. The outdoor access is immediate.

The completion of the St. Croix Crossing (the new bridge) created a fantastic "loop trail." You can walk or bike across the historic Lift Bridge, go down the Wisconsin side, cross back over the new high bridge, and return to downtown. It’s a roughly 5-mile loop that has become a favorite daily ritual for residents.

For nature lovers, the Brown's Creek State Trail offers miles of wooded biking and walking paths. In the winter, you don't have to hibernate. Afton Alps is just down the road for skiing and snowboarding, and the town embraces the cold with seasonal events that utilize the riverfront parks.

Dining is another recreational sport here. You aren't limited to chain restaurants; the town is full of breweries, speakeasies, and upscale chef-driven restaurants that rival what you’d find in the North Loop of Minneapolis.

Yes, it is widely considered one of the most desirable cities in Minnesota due to its unique combination of natural beauty, historic character, and high-quality amenities. It offers a small-town community feel while remaining within commuting distance of the Twin Cities metro.

Stillwater is roughly 20 to 25 minutes east of downtown St. Paul via Highway 36. Reaching downtown Minneapolis takes a bit longer, usually around 35 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Compared to many outer-ring suburbs, Stillwater is considered a premium market. Home prices and rents tend to be higher than average because of the high demand for river access, historic charm, and the quality of the school district.