Retiring in the St. Croix Valley: A 2026 Guide

If you’ve spent any time in the St. Croix Valley, you know that Stillwater is much more than just a weekend tourist destination. While visitors come for the ice cream and the Lift Bridge, locals know it as a vibrant, tight-knit community that feels just as lively on a Tuesday morning as it does on a Saturday night. As we settle into 2026, we are seeing a significant shift in the local housing market: Stillwater has quietly become a premier hub for retirement.

It makes perfect sense. The area offers a rare blend of historic charm and modern convenience that appeals to a wide spectrum of residents. We are seeing active adults looking for luxury condos near the river, as well as families seeking high-quality continuum of care campuses for aging parents. Whether you are looking to downsize yourself or you are helping a loved one navigate their care options, the choices here are robust.

In this guide, we’re going to walk through the landscape of retirement communities in Stillwater, MN. We will break down the costs, explain the different living models—from co-ops to campuses—and look at why so many seniors are choosing to plant their roots right here in Washington County.

When people ask me why they should retire here rather than heading south, the answer usually comes down to "lifestyle density." You simply get a lot of life packed into a small, accessible area. Stillwater strikes a balance that is hard to find elsewhere in Minnesota.

First, consider the walkability and scenery. The St. Croix River crossing loop trail has changed the game for active seniors. You can go for a morning walk across the bridge into Wisconsin and back, all on a paved, pedestrian-friendly path. The historic Main Street isn't just for tourists; it’s a place where locals grab coffee, visit the library, or sit by the water.

Healthcare is another massive factor. As we age, proximity to good medical care moves from a "nice-to-have" to a "must-have." Stillwater is home to Lakeview Hospital, part of the HealthPartners system, which provides excellent emergency and specialist care right in town. You don't have to drive into St. Paul for every appointment, though the Twin Cities are only 20 to 30 minutes away if you need university-level specialists.

Finally, there is the community feel. You have the small-town charm, but you haven't sacrificed convenience. With Oak Park Heights bordering us, you have immediate access to Target, Cub Foods, and other big-box necessities without having to deal with highway congestion. It’s the sweet spot between suburban convenience and river town character.

Before we jump into specific buildings, it is helpful to clarify the terminology. The industry uses a lot of jargon, and knowing the difference between "active adult" and "independent living" can save you a lot of time on tours.

55+ Active Adult Communities: These are essentially standard apartments, condos, or co-ops restricted to residents over a certain age. There is no medical care included and usually no dining plan. The focus here is on lifestyle, low-maintenance living, and peer connection. You handle your own cooking and life, just without the lawn care.

Independent Living (IL): This is the next step up. You are still living independently in an apartment, but the monthly rent usually includes a service package. This often covers housekeeping, linen service, transportation, and one or two meals a day. It’s for people who can manage their own health but want to shed the chores of daily life.

Assisted Living (AL): In an assisted living setting, care is brought to you. Residents have their own apartments, but staff is available 24/7 to help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), such as medication management, bathing, or dressing.

Memory Care: These are specialized, secure environments designed for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. The staffing ratios are higher, and the programming is specifically tailored to support cognitive health and safety.

Continuum of Care (CCRC): You might hear this term regarding large campuses. It means the community offers all the above options in one location. The idea is that you move into Independent Living, and if your health needs change, you can transition to Assisted Living or Memory Care without having to move to a new address.

Stillwater and its immediate neighbor, Oak Park Heights, offer some of the most highly regarded senior living campuses in the metro. Here is a look at the major players in the market as of 2026.

If you drive down Highway 36, you can’t miss Boutwells Landing. Located technically in Oak Park Heights but serving the Stillwater community, this is one of the largest and most comprehensive campuses in the area.

Boutwells feels less like a "facility" and more like a "town within a town." The grounds are extensive, featuring ponds, walking paths, and beautiful landscaping. Because it is a large campus, the amenity list is long. Residents here have access to a hobby shop, a swimming pool, a movie theater, a chapel, and even a general store for small necessities.

This is a true Continuum of Care campus. They offer everything from terraced apartments for independent living to townhomes, assisted living, memory care, and a transitional care unit for post-surgery rehab. It is a popular choice for couples who may have different care needs; one spouse can live independently while the other receives assisted living support, all within the same community.

The Lakes at Stillwater has made a name for itself by offering a modern, resort-style atmosphere. The campus is split into different lifestyle sections: "The Lodge" houses Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care, while "Sandhill Shores" is dedicated to 55+ active adult living.

The setting is fantastic, tucked away near Long Lake with forest surroundings that make it feel like a retreat. The vibe here leans heavily toward hospitality. The culinary programs are often a highlight, with dining rooms that feel more like restaurants than cafeterias.

A unique feature of The Lakes is its focus on intergenerational connection and modern design. The apartments tend to have high-end finishes, and the social calendar is robust. It appeals to those who want to feel like they are moving into a luxury apartment rather than a care facility.

Zvago offers something completely different: ownership. This is a cooperative tailored for those 62 and older. Unlike the rental models mentioned above, joining a co-op involves buying a share in the corporation that owns the building.

This model is ideal for active adults who want the financial benefits of homeownership—like equity appreciation and tax deductions—without the hassle of maintenance. Zvago Stillwater is located near downtown, offering high walkability to local shops and restaurants.

The amenities here focus on social living. You will find an outdoor terrace, a club room for parties, and underground parking (a massive plus during Minnesota winters). It’s a great option for those who are healthy, active, and want to build equity rather than pay rent.

While the big campuses get a lot of attention, there are other excellent options depending on your needs.

Oak Ridge Place offers a more intimate setting compared to the sprawling campuses. It focuses heavily on assisted living and is known for providing personalized, attentive care in a homelike environment.

Croixdale, located near the border of Bayport and Stillwater, is another Presbyterian Homes affiliate. It has deep roots in the community and offers a faith-based environment. It’s centrally located and often feels very familiar to locals who have lived in the St. Croix Valley their whole lives.

Raymie Johnson is another name you might hear, particularly if you are looking for independent senior rentals with a focus on affordability and community rather than heavy medical services.

Money is often the biggest source of anxiety when exploring retirement communities. It is important to remember that prices in 2026 vary significantly based on the size of the apartment, the view, and, most importantly, the level of care required.

Disclaimer: These are estimated market ranges for the St. Croix Valley area. You must consult specific communities for their current rate sheets.

Independent Living: For a standard rental model including a service package (housekeeping/meals), you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,500 per month. This covers your rent, utilities, and lifestyle amenities.

Assisted Living: This is where costs become variable. You typically pay a base rent for the apartment plus a "level of care" fee. Total monthly costs generally range from $4,500 to $7,500+. If a resident needs high-level care (like two-person transfers or medication administration multiple times a day), that number will be on the higher end.

Memory Care: Due to the higher staffing ratios and specialized security, Memory Care is the most expensive category. Expect monthly costs to fall between $7,000 and $9,000+.

Co-ops (like Zvago): These work differently. You pay a share price (or buy-in) which can range from $150,000 to $400,000+, and then you pay monthly carrying charges (similar to an HOA fee) which covers building maintenance, taxes, and reserves.

A Note on Minnesota Taxes: When budgeting, keep in mind the Minnesota tax context. While the state does tax Social Security, there are significant exemptions and subtraction limits that protect many middle-income retirees. Additionally, Minnesota offers programs like the Elderly Waiver for those who qualify, which can help offset assisted living costs.

Living in a retirement community here isn't just about what is inside the building; it is about accessing the St. Croix Valley lifestyle.

Recreation is abundant. The Brown’s Creek State Trail connects right into the downtown area, offering a flat, paved path perfect for walking or biking. In the summer, many seniors enjoy the St. Croix Boat & Packet river cruises—it’s a wonderful way to see the fall colors or enjoy a dinner on the water without doing the driving.

Culturally, the town punches above its weight. Between the summer markets, the arts fairs, and the famous Lumberjack Days, there is always an event on the calendar.

For shopping and dining, you have the best of both worlds. You can hunt for antiques or grab a boutique gift downtown, but when you just need groceries or a prescription, the commercial hub in Oak Park Heights is just a five-minute drive away. Most communities offer shuttle buses for these errands, but many residents find that keeping a car is helpful for full freedom.

Making the final decision can be overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you navigate your tours.

Visit During a Meal: Don't just tour the empty model apartment. Ask to have lunch in the dining room. This is the best way to gauge the social vibe. Are people talking and laughing? Is the food good? This will be your daily reality, so test it out.

Ask About the Fees: Transparency is key. Ask specifically about "community fees" (often a one-time charge upon moving in) and "second person fees" if you are a couple. Also, ask how much the price jumps if you move from Level 1 care to Level 2.

Think Ahead: You might be healthy now, but can the community support you if that changes? If you choose a standalone active adult condo, you may have to move again if you eventually need assisted living. If you choose a campus like Boutwells or The Lakes, you can likely age in place.

Get on a Waitlist: This is the most practical advice I can give. Popular communities, especially for specific floor plans (like two-bedroom units), often have waitlists. Even if you aren't ready to move for another year or two, putting your name down now gives you options later.

In 2026, the average total cost for assisted living in the Stillwater area typically lands between $4,500 and $7,000 per month. This total includes the rent for the apartment and the care services package. The price can vary widely depending on how much medical assistance the resident requires.

Yes, there are several distinct options for active adults who do not need care. Zvago Stillwater is a popular cooperative model for those who want to own, while The Lakes at Stillwater offers a "Sandhill Shores" section specifically for independent, active residents.

Yes, Stillwater and Oak Park Heights have excellent memory care options. Boutwells Landing and The Lakes at Stillwater both have dedicated memory care wings with specialized security and programming. There are also smaller, residential-style memory care homes in the surrounding Washington County area.

Minnesota is generally considered a higher-tax state, but it has become friendlier to retirees in recent years. There are income thresholds that allow many seniors to subtract a portion (or all) of their Social Security income from state taxes. However, it is always smart to consult a local tax professional to understand how your specific pension or IRA withdrawals will be treated.