Thinking about “right-sizing” your life? You’re not alone. Many Minnesotans are trading large single-family homes for the freedom of a low-maintenance condo or townhome. But downsizing doesn’t mean downgrading. As a real estate strategist with The HōM Group, I see clients every day looking for vibrant, walkable communities with high-end amenities. This guide cuts through the noise to show you the exact communities people are asking about in Minneapolis, Edina, and Saint Paul.
What are the best areas in Minnesota for downsizing?
The best areas in Minnesota for downsizing depend entirely on your desired lifestyle. The short answer is that the most popular communities are concentrated in walkable urban centers like the Minneapolis North Loop and Uptown, established luxury neighborhoods like Edina’s 50th & France and Saint Paul’s Cathedral Hill, and revitalized “urban village” settings like Saint Paul’s Highland Park.
Here’s what you need to know: the key isn’t just a smaller footprint; it’s a bigger life. Down-sizers are prioritizing walkability to coffee shops and restaurants, access to parks and trails, and “lock-and-leave” convenience. The focus has shifted from yard work to lifestyle. Instead of just searching for a 2-bedroom condo, my clients ask, “Where can I walk to get coffee, see a show, and meet friends?” This guide focuses on the top 5 communities that deliver that experience.
What is the top 55+ urban condo community in Minneapolis?
The short answer is Kenwood Isles, located perfectly at the corner of Hennepin Avenue and 28th Street between Uptown and the East Isles. For buyers 55 and over who want to be in the heart of the action while maintaining a sense of community, this is the building I’m asked about most. It’s not a suburban-style campus; it’s a 132-unit community integrated right into one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
Here’s why it’s a top pick: you are literally two blocks from the Lake of the Isles loop, steps from the Midtown Greenway for biking, and across the street from staples like Isles Bun & Coffee and the Walker Library. The building itself features a 24-hour front desk, heated underground parking, and private green spaces. Best of all, it’s one of the most accessible entry points for this location, with recent listings averaging around $250,000.
Where can I find a true luxury townhome in downtown Minneapolis?
For spacious, high-end townhome living adjacent to downtown and right on the river, the top choices are The Landings and Renaissance On The River in the North Loop.
While the neighborhood is famous for its industrial lofts, The Landings is one of two luxury townhome communities in the area, making its 59 units highly sought after. These are not small condos; they are large, multi-level homes, often ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 square feet, built in 2000 with attached garages and private river access. If you’re looking for a more moderate sized floor plan, the townhomes at Renaissance on the River are a smart move. They offer luxe, multi-level living with floor plans between 1,586 to 2,210 square feet and the finishes to match—hardwood floors, gas fireplaces, large windows, private terraces, and attached garages.
Location-wise they are both gold. Sitting alongside the Mississippi River trails, a few minutes’ walk to restaurants, shops, and downtown energy, you get urban convenience without sacrificing space or privacy. For down-sizers especially, this ticks multiple boxes: less maintenance (thanks to association-managed exterior and landscaping), premium setting, walkability, and a strong resale appeal in one of Minneapolis’s most desirable neighborhoods. In short: you don’t just shrink your footprint — you upgrade your lifestyle.
This is the perfect fit for a down-sizer who still wants significant space and privacy but craves an urban, walkable lifestyle. You can leave your home and be at Boom Island Park or walk to Minneapolis’s best restaurants like Bar La Grassa, Monte Carlo, and 112 Eatery. The price point reflects this unique offering, with properties ranging from the $400,000s to well over $1,000,000.
What’s the best option for luxury “lock-and-leave” living in Edina?
The most sought-after “lock-and-leave” lifestyle is centered around the 50th & France area in Edina. While many fine buildings exist, the newer, boutique-style communities like Nolan Mains define this category. These buildings offer a “condo-grade” living experience with hotel-like amenities, including concierge services, state-of-the-art fitness centers, pet spas, and even on-site dining like The Lynhall.
This is the ultimate in convenience. Residents can walk out their door to the shops at 50th & France, grab dinner, and see a movie at the Edina Cinema without ever getting in a car. It’s a high-demand, low-inventory market. Prices for luxury condos and townhomes in this prime Edina location typically start around $600,000 and can go well over $1,500,000 for new construction and premium penthouses.
What’s the best new construction townhome community in Saint Paul?
The most exciting and talked-about new development for downsizers in Saint Paul is undoubtedly Highland Bridge. This massive 122-acre site, the former home of the Ford Motor Company, is being transformed into a vibrant, modern neighborhood in the heart of the beloved Highland Park area. The Pulte Homes townhomes here are exceptionally popular with my clients.
Here’s what you need to know: this is the first new, large-scale, walkable community built in Saint Paul in decades. It’s designed around green space, bike paths, and walkability to a new Lunds & Byerlys, restaurants, and the Mississippi River. It offers the “new” feel that’s hard to find in St. Paul, combined with the charm of an established area. New construction townhomes in Highland Bridge generally range from the $600,000s to over $1,000,000.
Is there a 55+ community focused on nature and community?
Yes. For downsizers who prioritize nature and a strong community over urban density, the most unique option is Becketwood in Minneapolis. This is not a typical condo; it’s a 55+ cooperative community set on 12 beautiful, wooded acres overlooking the Mississippi River. The Tudor-style buildings are surrounded by park-like grounds, walking paths, and community gardens.
This is a choice for those who want an active, engaged retirement. Becketwood is known for its resident-driven clubs, lifelong learning programs, and social events. It offers a “campus” feel with amenities like on-site dining and hiking trails, but it’s just minutes from both downtown Saint Paul and Minneapolis. Because it’s a co-op, the ownership and pricing structure is different, focusing on shares in the corporation rather than a traditional deed.
Quick Facts: Twin Cities Downsizing Market
- Top 5 Communities: The Landings (Mpls), Kenwood Isles (Mpls), 50th & France (Edina), Highland Bridge (St. Paul), Becketwood (Minneapolis)
- Price Range: Highly variable, from ~$250k for a 55+ urban condo to $1.5M+ for luxury new construction.
- Key Amenities: Walkability (to dining, parks, lakes), low-maintenance, attached garages, and professional management.
- Market Trend: High Demand, Low Inventory. This is the key story for 2024-2025.
What are the 2025/2026 real estate trends for Twin Cities down-sizers?
Here’s what you need to know: although the market for condos and townhomes is still active and highly competitive, you have more time to think than the single family home market. The average days on market for single family homes is 35 while the average days on market for condos and townhomes in Minneapolis is above 100 according to data from late 2025. Townhome sales in the metro are up 5.3% and condo sales are up 3.9% year-over-year.
The biggest challenge is not demand; it’s inventory. The Twin Cities metro currently has only 2.7 months of supply (5-6 months is considered a balanced market). This means that high-quality, updated, and well-located properties are still selling quicker. The good news? Downsizers who have significant equity built up in their current homes are in a powerful position to navigate this market and make a strong, compelling offer. Focus on what is important to you so when the right place pops up you can jump.
How can I find the right downsizing property in Minneapolis or Saint Paul?
The best way to find the perfect downsizing property is to partner with a local specialist who understands the nuances of these specific communities. Many of the best townhomes and condos, especially in high-demand buildings, are sold off-market before they ever hit Zillow.
As a strategist with The HōM Group of Keller Williams Integrity, I have my finger on the pulse of these top-tier communities. I know the different association (HOA) fees, which buildings have the best management, and which units have the floor plans downsizers love (like main-level primary suites). If you’re ready to explore “right-sizing,” let’s connect. I can help you find the home that lets you live the lifestyle you’ve earned.
