Thinking about moving to Edina, Minnesota? You’re asking the right questions. As the leader of The HōM Group, I’ve helped hundreds of families relocate to or upsize within this incredible community. People always want to know the “real deal” about the schools, the commute, and the lifestyle. I’m putting all the answers right here.
Here is the straightforward, no-fluff guide to living in Edina, from the local expert you can trust.
What is Edina, Minnesota known for?
The short answer is: Edina is best known for its nationally-ranked public schools, beautiful upscale neighborhoods, and premier luxury shopping. It’s widely considered one of Minnesota’s most desirable “first-ring” suburbs, offering an exceptionally high quality of life just minutes from Minneapolis.
Here’s what you need to know. For decades, Edina has maintained a reputation for prestige and community. You’ll find meticulously maintained homes on quiet, tree-lined streets, a powerful sense of community, and top-tier public amenities. It’s also famous for being the home of Southdale Center, the first-ever fully enclosed, climate-controlled shopping mall in the United States. But it’s not just classic suburbs; the city has a robust park system, including the popular Centennial Lakes Park, and a strong local economy. It perfectly blends that stable, suburban feel with sophisticated, modern convenience.
Is Edina a good city for families?
Yes, Edina is consistently ranked as one of the absolute best places in Minnesota to raise a family. The two biggest reasons for this are its exceptionally strong public school system and its high level of public safety.
But it goes beyond that. The entire city is structured around family life. The Edina Parks & Recreation department is incredible, running leagues, camps, and classes year-round. You are never more than a few minutes from a clean, safe park, playground, or skating rink. In the winter, the massive indoor playground at Edinborough Park is a true lifesaver for parents. The community is highly engaged, crime rates are very low, and there’s an overwhelming feeling of security and stability. For families relocating or looking for more space, Edina delivers the “total package.”
What are the schools like in Edina?
The schools are, without a doubt, the number one reason many people choose to buy a home in Edina. Edina Public Schools (ISD 273) are a powerhouse, consistently ranked among the best in the state and the entire nation. They are known for exceptional academic achievement, extensive Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and championship-level arts and athletics.
The district includes six elementary schools (including popular choices like Concord, Cornelia, and the Normandale’s French Immersion program), two middle schools (South View and Valley View), and one acclaimed Edina High School. The commitment to education here is deep, supported by high levels of community funding and parental involvement. Test scores are stellar, the graduation rate is consistently above 95%, and the vast majority of graduates proceed to four-year colleges. If top-tier public education is your highest priority, Edina is the benchmark.
What is the commute like from Edina to downtown Minneapolis?
The commute from Edina to downtown Minneapolis is excellent, typically taking only 15 to 25 minutes by car.
This convenient location is one of Edina’s biggest advantages. The city is perfectly positioned, bordered by major highways like Highway 100, Highway 62 (the “Crosstown”), and I-494. From almost anywhere in Edina, you can be on a main artery in 5 to 10 minutes. Your primary route downtown will likely be Highway 100 North, which flows directly into I-394 and right into the city. Even during peak rush hour, this drive rarely exceeds 30-35 minutes, which is far more manageable than commutes from second- or third-ring suburbs. As a bonus, it’s also a simple 15-minute drive to the Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) International Airport, a huge perk for business or personal travel.
What is the Edina real estate market like right now?
The Edina real estate market is highly competitive, defined by strong, stable demand, historically low inventory, and robust property values. The median sales price for a single-family home in Edina typically hovers in the $750,000 to $950,000 range, though this varies significantly by neighborhood.
Here’s the trend our team at The HōM Group is seeing: updated properties in prime locations (like the Country Club district, Morningside, or near the Edina Country Club) are attracting multiple offers and selling very quickly, often over the asking price. Edina’s housing stock is diverse; you’ll find 1950s ramblers (perfect for renovation), classic two-story homes, and multi-million-dollar new constructions. There is also a strong luxury condo and townhome market, especially around 50th & France and Centennial Lakes. For buyers, this means you must be prepared to act decisively. For sellers, it means your property is a highly valued asset. Edina real estate has proven to be one of the most resilient and solid long-term investments in the entire state.
What are the best things to do in Edina? (Parks, Shopping, Dining)
The best things to do in Edina revolve around its outstanding parks, walkable upscale shopping districts, and a surprisingly diverse dining scene. The two most famous destinations are the 50th & France shopping area and the beautiful Centennial Lakes Park.
Here’s what you need to know. 50th & France, which Edina shares with Minneapolis, is a charming, walkable district filled with local boutiques, national retailers (like lululemon, Warby Parker, and Anthropologie), and fantastic restaurants. For dining, you have everything from local mainstays like Salut Bar Americain to high-end spots like Mr. Paul’s Supper Club. For recreation, Centennial Lakes Park is a 24-acre urban oasis with paddleboats, mini-golf, and a 1.5-mile walking path in the summer, which transforms into one of the area’s most popular ice-skating rinks in the winter. You also have the massive Braemar Park, which features a public golf course, sports domes, and miles of trails, not to mention the recently re-imagined Southdale Center for all your major retail needs.
Quick Facts: Living in Edina, MN
- Location: First-ring suburb, southwest of Minneapolis.
- Population: Approximately 53,000
- Median Single-Family Home Price: ~$850,000 (Varies greatly by size and neighborhood)
- Main Highways: Highway 100, Highway 62, I-494, Highway 169
- Commute to Downtown Mpls: 15-25 minutes
- Commute to MSP Airport: 15-20 minutes
- School District: Edina Public Schools (ISD 273)
- Key Parks: Centennial Lakes Park, Braemar Park, Edinborough Park (indoor), Arneson Acres
- Key Shopping: 50th & France, Southdale Center, Galleria Edina
What’s the next step if I’m thinking of moving to Edina?
The best next step is to talk to a true local expert who understands the specific nuances of each Edina neighborhood.
A website can give you data, but an expert can provide context. Why is one street in the Morningside neighborhood valued differently than another just three blocks away? What are the pros and cons of living near the Southdale-area redevelopment versus the quiet streets near Braemar Golf Course? My team at The HōM Group and I don’t just sell homes; we serve as strategic consultants for your entire move. We’ve guided countless families—just like yours—through the exact process you’re considering.
If you want to go from “just browsing” to finding the perfect home in Edina, send me a text or an email. I’m Nicoli Holm, and my team is ready to help.
