The median sale price in Stillwater, MN recently hit the $432,000 to $452,000 range, reflecting steady demand for homes along the St. Croix River. Buyers looking at the Stillwater, MN housing market this year face a landscape shaped by moderate inventory and fast-moving listings.
Available homes spend an average of 29 days on the market before going under contract. With active listings fluctuating between 50 and 116 depending on the month, buyers should prepare their financing early to compete for well-priced properties.
Current Home Prices and Market Trends
Buyers entering the market this summer will find median home prices hovering around $440,000. This represents moderate year-over-year growth compared to the rapid price escalations seen a few years ago. Sellers continue to see strong returns, especially for updated properties in established neighborhoods.
Inventory levels remain relatively tight across Washington County. Reporting sources show active listings varying from 50 to just over 100 available homes within the city limits. This constrained supply means Stillwater leans slightly toward a seller's market, though buyers have more room to negotiate than they did in 2024.
Current mortgage interest rates also play a major role in local buyer demand. Buyers are carefully watching rates to determine their maximum purchasing power. Sellers should price their homes accurately from day one to attract these rate-conscious buyers.
Property Styles and Neighborhoods
The eastern edge of the city features historic Victorian and Queen Anne homes built during the local lumber boom. Properties in the North Hill and South Hill areas offer distinct architectural details and close proximity to downtown. Renovation projects in these older sections often command premium prices.
Western expansion zones provide a different style of living with master-planned communities and new construction builds. Developments like Liberty on the Lake feature modern layouts, attached garages, and larger lot sizes. Across all property types, buyers can expect to pay an average of $240 per square foot.
Commuting and Transportation Routes
State Highway 36 serves as the primary artery connecting Stillwater to the broader Twin Cities metropolitan area. Drivers taking this route can reach downtown St. Paul in about 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The commute to downtown Minneapolis takes closer to 40 minutes.
Residents who travel frequently for work or leisure will find the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport about 35 miles away. The drive typically takes 40 to 45 minutes via Interstate 694 and Interstate 494. Local transit options are limited, so most households rely on personal vehicles for daily transportation.
Local Schools, Parks, and Healthcare
The city of Stillwater falls within the boundaries of Independent School District 834. This district covers the immediate city limits and extends into several surrounding Washington County townships.
Access to medical care and outdoor recreation adds to the practical features of the region. Lakeview Hospital operates directly within the city, providing emergency services and specialized medical care. Buyers evaluating the area will also find extensive access to regional trails and waterways.
- Stillwater Area Public Schools (ISD 834): The district serves roughly 8,000 students across the St. Croix Valley area.
- Brown's Creek State Trail: This paved, 5.9-mile multi-use trail connects the city directly to the larger Gateway State Trail system.
- St. Croix River: The waterfront provides marinas, public boat launches, and miles of navigable water forming the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Property Tax Rates in Washington County
Homeowners in Washington County pay a median effective property tax rate of approximately 1.13%. This rate applies to the assessed market value of the property, which the county determines annually. Buyers should review the specific tax history of any home they intend to purchase.
Minnesota uses a classification system that benefits primary residents through the residential homestead class rate. For homes carrying the homestead classification, the first $500,000 of market value is taxed at a base rate of 1.00%. Value exceeding that threshold is taxed at a slightly higher percentage.
Buyers should factor these local taxes into their monthly housing budget. A complete mortgage payment includes the principal, interest, homeowner's insurance, and the combined property tax levies from the county, city, and school district.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are home prices dropping in Stillwater, MN?
Median sale prices remain stable in the $432,000 to $452,000 range for the summer of 2026. While homes are not seeing the aggressive double-digit appreciation of previous years, values are holding firm. Sellers who price to the current market are still securing strong offers.
What school district serves Stillwater?
Independent School District 834 (ISD 834) serves the city and several neighboring communities. Buyers looking for specific attendance boundaries should verify the address with the district office before making an offer.
Is Stillwater a buyer's or seller's market right now?
The area leans toward a seller's market due to limited inventory. With only 50 to 116 active listings available at any given time, buyers face steady competition. Homes priced accurately typically go under contract in about 29 days.
