Stillwater

Stillwater is a historic St. Croix River community of approximately 19,400 residents with A-minus-rated ISD 834 schools, a walkable downtown of independent restaurants and shops, and riverfront living that draws buyers from across the Twin Cities. As a Woodbury-based Realtor with over a decade in the east metro market, I regularly help families explore what Stillwater has to offer.

What Makes Stillwater Special

Often called the "Birthplace of Minnesota," Stillwater's roots go back to 1843 when it was founded as a lumber town. That heritage shows in every brick building along Main Street — but this is far from a museum piece. The downtown is one of the most walkable in the metro, lined with independent shops like Valley Bookseller, art galleries, and restaurants that draw diners from across the region.

The Lora Hotel, housed in an 1886 former brewery building, anchors the south end of Main Street with its restaurant (Feller), coffee bar (MADE), and cocktail lounge (The Long Goodbye). Leo's Grill & Malt Shop has been a local favorite since opening in 2009. And Domacin Wine Bar, with over 600 wine selections, was named one of America's Top 25 wine bars by Travel & Leisure.

Families gather at Teddy Bear Park on weekend mornings, the annual Lumberjack Days festival draws thousands each summer, and the Lift Bridge — Stillwater's most recognizable landmark — frames the view south across the St. Croix River into Wisconsin.

Real Estate Market in Stillwater

Stillwater's housing market reflects the premium that buyers place on river access, historic charm, and strong schools. Homes range from Victorian and Craftsman properties near downtown — often listed from $600,000 to over $1 million for river views — to newer construction on the west side of the city, and condos and townhomes that offer entry points for first-time buyers.

The median sale price in Stillwater is approximately $475,000, with Zillow's typical home value at around $444,000 — reflecting a roughly 2% year-over-year increase. Homes are moving in about 22 days on average, making this one of the more competitive markets in the east metro. With approximately 49 active listings at any given time and around 38 homes selling per month, well-priced properties attract serious interest quickly. (Sources: Redfin, Zillow, as of early 2026)

Inventory in Stillwater is tighter than larger suburbs like Woodbury (~200 active listings) or Cottage Grove, so buyers who are serious about this community should be prepared to act when the right property appears.

Schools & Families

Stillwater Area Public Schools (ISD 834) carries an A-minus rating on Niche and serves approximately 8,400 students across Stillwater, Lake Elmo, Bayport, Oak Park Heights, and surrounding communities.

Stillwater Area High School has a graduation rate near 95% and offers strong AP and IB programs alongside competitive athletics and well-regarded arts programs in theater, music, and visual arts. The high school is ranked #47 in Minnesota by U.S. News & World Report (2025-26). For elementary-age children, Lily Lake Elementary (9/10 on GreatSchools) and Rutherford Elementary (7/10 on GreatSchools, Niche B+) are both popular choices.

Youth sports have a strong community following here — hockey, lacrosse, and soccer programs all benefit from an engaged parent base and well-maintained facilities.

Lifestyle & Things to Do

Life in Stillwater revolves around the river and the outdoors. The 5.9-mile Brown's Creek State Trail — a paved path along a designated trout stream — connects Stillwater to the Gateway State Trail system at Duluth Junction in Grant, giving cyclists and walkers access to an 18-mile corridor stretching all the way to St. Paul.

The St. Croix River offers boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Pioneer Park provides panoramic river views, and Lowell Park along the waterfront hosts summer concerts. In winter, Afton Alps (part of the Vail Resorts Epic Pass program) is approximately 11 miles south — about a 17-minute drive.

The craft beverage scene continues to grow. Lift Bridge Brewing Company, founded in 2008 and recognized as the oldest operating taproom in Minnesota, is a local anchor. Phil's Tara Hideaway, serving Greek-Mediterranean cuisine in a 1929 log cabin, is one of those places locals bring visitors to impress them.

Getting Around

Stillwater to downtown St. Paul is approximately 25-30 minutes via Highway 36. Downtown Minneapolis is 35-40 minutes. MSP Airport is roughly 36-44 minutes depending on traffic. These commute times are longer than inner-ring suburbs like Oakdale (11-14 minutes to St. Paul), so Stillwater works best for buyers who prioritize lifestyle over a short drive — or who work remotely part of the week.

Woodbury, with its retail centers and medical offices, is about 15 minutes west along I-94, making it convenient for day-to-day errands and appointments.

Who Thrives in Stillwater

Remote workers who want a walkable downtown with good coffee and restaurants just outside their door. Families who prioritize the ISD 834 school district and want their kids growing up with river access and community events. Empty nesters looking for character, dining, and culture within a close-knit community.

Stillwater is less ideal if a short commute or brand-new suburban construction is your top priority. But for buyers who value character, community, and location on the St. Croix, it consistently ranks among the east metro's most desirable addresses.