I’ve analyzed the Zillow Home Value Index data to uncover Minnesota’s fastest-growing housing markets from 2016 to 2025. What’s fascinating is how these smaller communities are outperforming the Twin Cities metro area, with some properties tripling in value during this period, creating extraordinary wealth for early investors.
The most impressive growth is occurring in rural communities, lakeside retreats, and small working-class towns—places that offer affordability combined with quality of life advantages that appeal to both remote workers and retirees seeking value. This reflects a fundamental shift in Minnesota’s real estate patterns away from urban concentration.
Below I’ve ranked the 25 towns with the highest percentage growth in home values, providing year-by-year data and financial insights for each. These communities represent Minnesota’s hidden investment opportunities—places where housing demand is dramatically outpacing supply.
25. Cosmos
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 113.76%
- Home value in 2016: $76,418
- Home value in 2017: $85,709
- Home value in 2018: $92,731
- Home value in 2019: $103,589
- Home value in 2020: $119,360
- Home value in 2021: $130,166
- Home value in 2022: $154,375
- Home value in 2023: $151,413
- Home value in 2024: $152,006
- Home value in 2025: $163,353
Cosmos demonstrates remarkable investment performance with its 113.8% appreciation, more than doubling property values and generating nearly $87,000 in equity growth. The acceleration between 2019-2022 reflects the pandemic-era shift toward affordable small towns with strong community appeal. Located in Meeker County with agricultural roots and rural charm, Cosmos offers extraordinary value compared to metro areas. For buyers, the current $163K price point represents an accessible entry to a proven growth market where affordability combines with appreciation potential in a way that’s increasingly rare in today’s housing landscape.
24. West Concord
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 114.79%
- Home value in 2016: $116,642
- Home value in 2017: $122,468
- Home value in 2018: $138,110
- Home value in 2019: $151,586
- Home value in 2020: $161,999
- Home value in 2021: $188,198
- Home value in 2022: $216,476
- Home value in 2023: $230,081
- Home value in 2024: $238,492
- Home value in 2025: $250,530
West Concord’s impressive 114.8% growth rate has created substantial wealth for property owners, with values more than doubling and generating nearly $134,000 in equity. The steady year-over-year increases without volatility suggest fundamental value rather than speculation, making this market attractive for long-term investors. Situated in Dodge County with proximity to Rochester’s expanding employment base, West Concord benefits from regional economic strength while maintaining small-town affordability. For buyers seeking value beyond the Rochester metro area, West Concord offers an appealing combination of accessibility, community character, and proven appreciation potential that positions it well for continued growth.
23. Bruno
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 115.14%
- Home value in 2016: $110,298
- Home value in 2017: $115,511
- Home value in 2018: $130,677
- Home value in 2019: $138,561
- Home value in 2020: $140,245
- Home value in 2021: $170,680
- Home value in 2022: $197,618
- Home value in 2023: $218,765
- Home value in 2024: $226,330
- Home value in 2025: $237,289
Bruno’s remarkable 115.1% appreciation has transformed modest properties into significant assets, generating nearly $127,000 in equity growth since 2016. The dramatic acceleration after 2020 reflects surging demand for rural properties as remote work expanded location options for homebuyers. Nestled in Pine County with abundant natural amenities and recreational opportunities, Bruno appeals to both permanent residents and vacation home buyers. For investors, Bruno represents the sweet spot of Minnesota’s rural market revival – affordable enough to offer strong returns while demonstrating proven demand that translates to reliable appreciation in an area where buyers increasingly seek refuge from urban housing costs.
22. Waltham
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 115.17%
- Home value in 2016: $123,712
- Home value in 2017: $129,600
- Home value in 2018: $140,525
- Home value in 2019: $152,238
- Home value in 2020: $162,976
- Home value in 2021: $188,644
- Home value in 2022: $221,548
- Home value in 2023: $228,598
- Home value in 2024: $244,215
- Home value in 2025: $266,193
Waltham’s impressive 115.2% growth has created substantial financial gains for property owners, with values more than doubling and generating over $142,000 in equity. The acceleration between 2020-2022 reflects the pandemic-driven shift toward affordable communities with space and privacy advantages. Located in Mower County with good access to Austin and Rochester employment centers, Waltham combines rural tranquility with practical commuting options. For buyers seeking value in today’s market, Waltham’s price point still represents an accessible entry to a proven growth area where housing demand continues to outpace supply – suggesting continued appreciation potential in this strategically positioned community.
21. Le Roy
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 115.41%
- Home value in 2016: $92,658
- Home value in 2017: $95,963
- Home value in 2018: $105,590
- Home value in 2019: $119,277
- Home value in 2020: $125,056
- Home value in 2021: $142,833
- Home value in 2022: $168,557
- Home value in 2023: $174,721
- Home value in 2024: $185,884
- Home value in 2025: $199,597
Le Roy’s remarkable 115.4% appreciation rate has transformed modest investments into significant assets, with property values more than doubling and generating nearly $107,000 in equity growth. The steady upward trajectory accelerated particularly during 2021-2022, reflecting strong post-pandemic demand for affordable small-town properties. Positioned near the Minnesota-Iowa border with accessibility to regional employment centers, Le Roy offers strategic location advantages at prices well below regional averages. For buyers seeking value in today’s market, Le Roy’s sub-$200K price point presents an attractive opportunity in a proven growth market where housing costs remain reasonable despite the impressive appreciation history.
20. Brownton
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 116.40%
- Home value in 2016: $120,527
- Home value in 2017: $129,230
- Home value in 2018: $135,842
- Home value in 2019: $151,909
- Home value in 2020: $171,962
- Home value in 2021: $190,373
- Home value in 2022: $224,816
- Home value in 2023: $226,407
- Home value in 2024: $244,318
- Home value in 2025: $260,817
Brownton’s impressive 116.4% growth rate demonstrates exceptional investment performance, with property values more than doubling and generating over $140,000 in equity gains since 2016. The strongest acceleration occurred between 2019-2022, reflecting heightened demand for small-town properties during the pandemic era. Located in McLeod County with good access to the western Twin Cities metro area, Brownton offers a strategic blend of rural character and regional connectivity. For buyers seeking value beyond the immediate metro area, Brownton’s current price point represents an attractive option in a market where housing demand continues to outpace supply – suggesting continued appreciation potential as more buyers expand their search radius.
19. Hollandale
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 116.98%
- Home value in 2016: $72,868
- Home value in 2017: $83,087
- Home value in 2018: $93,424
- Home value in 2019: $102,562
- Home value in 2020: $110,300
- Home value in 2021: $126,413
- Home value in 2022: $141,843
- Home value in 2023: $149,774
- Home value in 2024: $151,719
- Home value in 2025: $158,107
Hollandale’s remarkable 117% growth rate translates to exceptional financial returns, with property values more than doubling and generating over $85,000 in equity from a modest starting point. The consistent upward trajectory without dramatic spikes suggests sustainable demand rather than speculative volatility, making this market particularly attractive for risk-averse investors. Located in Freeborn County with agricultural heritage and small-town character, Hollandale offers extraordinary value compared to regional averages. For buyers seeking affordable entry points with proven appreciation potential, Hollandale’s current price around $158K represents one of Minnesota’s most accessible growth markets with continued room for equity expansion as rural communities continue their renaissance.
18. Silver Bay
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 117.25%
- Home value in 2016: $77,514
- Home value in 2017: $76,847
- Home value in 2018: $80,499
- Home value in 2019: $85,655
- Home value in 2020: $97,076
- Home value in 2021: $105,742
- Home value in 2022: $133,019
- Home value in 2023: $145,750
- Home value in 2024: $150,530
- Home value in 2025: $168,402
Silver Bay’s impressive 117.3% growth demonstrates exceptional investment performance, with values more than doubling despite a slow start that included a slight decline in 2017. The dramatic acceleration after 2020 reflects surging demand for Lake Superior shoreline communities as remote work expanded location options for buyers. Situated along Minnesota’s North Shore with extraordinary natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Silver Bay offers lakeside living at a fraction of the cost of comparable waterfront markets. For investors seeking value in Minnesota’s recreational property market, Silver Bay’s combination of affordability and proven growth trajectory positions it as a prime opportunity in the increasingly sought-after North Shore region.
17. Sargeant
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 121.08%
- Home value in 2016: $135,237
- Home value in 2017: $147,174
- Home value in 2018: $158,309
- Home value in 2019: $174,264
- Home value in 2020: $182,529
- Home value in 2021: $213,270
- Home value in 2022: $247,540
- Home value in 2023: $252,029
- Home value in 2024: $272,010
- Home value in 2025: $298,977
Sargeant’s impressive 121.1% growth rate has generated extraordinary financial returns, with property values more than doubling and adding nearly $164,000 in equity since 2016. The acceleration during 2021-2022 reflects heightened demand for rural properties as pandemic-era priorities shifted toward space and affordability. Located in Mower County with accessibility to Rochester’s robust employment market, Sargeant offers strategic positioning with small-town advantages. Your investment dollars stretch further here than in Rochester proper, with Sargeant’s price point still representing value despite the remarkable appreciation – suggesting continued growth potential as more buyers prioritize affordability while maintaining access to regional economic centers.
16. Henriette
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 122.16%
- Home value in 2016: $103,777
- Home value in 2017: $106,109
- Home value in 2018: $116,979
- Home value in 2019: $126,481
- Home value in 2020: $133,993
- Home value in 2021: $160,928
- Home value in 2022: $194,362
- Home value in 2023: $210,478
- Home value in 2024: $220,875
- Home value in 2025: $230,554
Henriette’s remarkable 122.2% appreciation rate translates to exceptional financial returns, with property values more than doubling and generating over $126,000 in equity growth. The dramatic acceleration after 2020 reflects surging demand for affordable rural communities as remote work expanded location options for homebuyers. Situated in Pine County with natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Henriette offers an appealing blend of rural character and regional accessibility. For investors seeking growth markets with room to run, Henriette’s current price point still represents value compared to similar communities closer to the Twin Cities – suggesting continued appreciation potential as more buyers expand their search radius for affordable housing alternatives.
15. Kerrick
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 122.36%
- Home value in 2016: $107,324
- Home value in 2017: $113,442
- Home value in 2018: $127,970
- Home value in 2019: $138,742
- Home value in 2020: $143,566
- Home value in 2021: $173,213
- Home value in 2022: $204,340
- Home value in 2023: $224,755
- Home value in 2024: $229,104
- Home value in 2025: $238,642
Kerrick’s impressive 122.4% growth rate demonstrates exceptional investment performance, with property values more than doubling and generating over $131,000 in equity since 2016. The dramatic acceleration after 2020 reflects growing appeal of northern Minnesota communities as pandemic-era priorities shifted toward space and natural amenities. Located in Pine County with abundant recreational opportunities and natural beauty, Kerrick offers accessibility to outdoor activities that command premium prices elsewhere. For buyers seeking value in recreational property markets, Kerrick’s current price point delivers significant opportunity compared to better-known destinations – positioning investors in a market with strong momentum and continued room for appreciation.
14. Saint James
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 123.31%
- Home value in 2016: $68,020
- Home value in 2017: $66,232
- Home value in 2018: $71,746
- Home value in 2019: $79,857
- Home value in 2020: $71,229
- Home value in 2021: $82,775
- Home value in 2022: $104,906
- Home value in 2023: $125,766
- Home value in 2024: $136,438
- Home value in 2025: $151,897
Saint James showcases remarkable resilience and growth with a 123.3% appreciation rate despite early volatility, including a value dip in 2020. The explosive recovery and growth after 2020 demonstrates this market’s fundamental strength, with values more than doubling over nine years. Located in Watonwan County with agricultural roots and small-town character, Saint James offers extraordinary value compared to regional averages. For investors seeking affordable entry points with proven appreciation capacity, the current $152K price point represents one of Minnesota’s most accessible growth markets – allowing acquisition of properties at a fraction of state averages while positioning in a community with momentum and continued upside potential.
13. Alden
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 123.70%
- Home value in 2016: $60,180
- Home value in 2017: $65,786
- Home value in 2018: $70,911
- Home value in 2019: $80,182
- Home value in 2020: $87,636
- Home value in 2021: $99,708
- Home value in 2022: $112,916
- Home value in 2023: $124,537
- Home value in 2024: $128,320
- Home value in 2025: $134,625
Alden’s impressive 123.7% growth rate translates to exceptional financial returns, with property values more than doubling from an extremely accessible starting point. The consistent upward trajectory without dramatic volatility suggests fundamental value rather than speculation, making this market particularly attractive for risk-averse investors. Located in Freeborn County with small-town charm and agricultural heritage, Alden offers extraordinary affordability compared to regional averages. For buyers seeking value, the current $135K price point represents one of Minnesota’s most accessible growth markets – allowing acquisition of properties at a fraction of state averages while positioning in a community with proven appreciation capacity.
12. Brook Park
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 125.02%
- Home value in 2016: $98,904
- Home value in 2017: $103,013
- Home value in 2018: $113,310
- Home value in 2019: $124,332
- Home value in 2020: $130,588
- Home value in 2021: $149,581
- Home value in 2022: $176,020
- Home value in 2023: $196,072
- Home value in 2024: $211,452
- Home value in 2025: $222,553
Brook Park’s remarkable 125% appreciation has created substantial wealth for property owners, with values more than doubling and generating nearly $124,000 in equity growth since 2016. The acceleration after 2020 reflects growing appeal of communities within commuting distance of the Twin Cities as pandemic-era priorities shifted toward space and affordability. Located in Pine County with natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Brook Park offers an attractive blend of rural character and regional accessibility. For buyers, the current price point around $223K still represents value compared to similar communities closer to the metro area – suggesting continued appreciation potential as more buyers extend their search radius.
11. Rock Creek
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 129.49%
- Home value in 2016: $140,312
- Home value in 2017: $148,658
- Home value in 2018: $160,958
- Home value in 2019: $175,442
- Home value in 2020: $189,147
- Home value in 2021: $223,335
- Home value in 2022: $268,949
- Home value in 2023: $297,666
- Home value in 2024: $311,771
- Home value in 2025: $322,009
Rock Creek’s impressive 129.5% growth rate demonstrates exceptional investment performance, with property values more than doubling despite starting from a higher baseline than many peers. The dramatic acceleration between 2020-2023 reflects strong post-pandemic demand, with values increasing by over 57% in just three years. Located in Pine County along the I-35 corridor with good access to the Twin Cities, Rock Creek offers a strategic blend of natural amenities and regional connectivity. For investors, the combination of strong appreciation history and continued growth potential makes Rock Creek an attractive option despite its higher price point – positioning buyers in a market where demand continues to outpace supply.
10. Mapleview
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 130.75%
- Home value in 2016: $40,258
- Home value in 2017: $43,399
- Home value in 2018: $46,167
- Home value in 2019: $52,457
- Home value in 2020: $51,730
- Home value in 2021: $69,242
- Home value in 2022: $74,301
- Home value in 2023: $76,665
- Home value in 2024: $88,572
- Home value in 2025: $92,896
Mapleview demonstrates exceptional investment performance with a 130.8% growth rate, more than doubling property values from an extraordinarily low starting point. Despite a slight dip in 2020, the market rebounded with dramatic 33.9% growth in 2021, showcasing fundamental resilience and demand. Located in Mower County near Austin with accessibility to regional amenities, Mapleview offers unparalleled affordability in today’s market. For investors seeking value, the current average below $93K represents perhaps the most compelling opportunity on this list – allowing acquisition of properties at a fraction of state averages while positioning in a community with proven growth capacity and continued room for appreciation as housing costs escalate elsewhere.
9. Askov
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 131.47%
- Home value in 2016: $67,544
- Home value in 2017: $61,930
- Home value in 2018: $76,407
- Home value in 2019: $81,445
- Home value in 2020: $88,807
- Home value in 2021: $116,012
- Home value in 2022: $127,737
- Home value in 2023: $143,043
- Home value in 2024: $157,860
- Home value in 2025: $156,343
Askov showcases remarkable resilience and growth with a 131.5% appreciation rate despite early volatility, including an 8.3% decline in 2017 followed by dramatic 23.4% growth in 2018. The explosive acceleration after 2020 reflects heightened demand for affordable rural communities, with values increasing by 76% in just five years. Located in Pine County with Scandinavian heritage and natural beauty, Askov offers an appealing blend of cultural character and outdoor amenities. For buyers seeking value in northern Minnesota, Askov’s price point delivers significant opportunity compared to better-known destinations – positioning investors in a market with proven momentum despite its recent slight cooling in 2025.
8. Lewisville
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 132.75%
- Home value in 2016: $60,143
- Home value in 2017: $65,019
- Home value in 2018: $68,809
- Home value in 2019: $77,942
- Home value in 2020: $70,388
- Home value in 2021: $86,758
- Home value in 2022: $111,458
- Home value in 2023: $127,278
- Home value in 2024: $130,490
- Home value in 2025: $139,986
Lewisville demonstrates exceptional resilience with a 132.8% growth rate despite significant volatility, including a 9.7% decline in 2020 followed by explosive recovery. The remarkable 58.5% growth between 2021-2023 showcases this market’s fundamental strength and appeal once discovered by buyers. Located in Watonwan County with agricultural heritage and small-town character, Lewisville offers extraordinary value compared to state averages. For investors seeking affordable entry points in proven growth markets, the current $140K price point allows acquisition of properties at a fraction of regional costs while positioning in a community where housing demand continues to outpace supply – suggesting continued appreciation potential despite historical volatility.
7. Appleton
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 133.76%
- Home value in 2016: $32,392
- Home value in 2017: $33,494
- Home value in 2018: $38,988
- Home value in 2019: $43,460
- Home value in 2020: $46,342
- Home value in 2021: $51,027
- Home value in 2022: $63,721
- Home value in 2023: $66,839
- Home value in 2024: $66,939
- Home value in 2025: $75,719
Appleton’s remarkable 133.8% growth rate represents extraordinary investment performance, with property values more than doubling from an extremely low starting point. The consistent upward trajectory accelerated particularly during 2021-2022, with values increasing by 25% in just one year. Located in Swift County with agricultural roots and small-town charm, Appleton offers unparalleled affordability in today’s market. For investors seeking value, the current average below $76K represents one of the most compelling opportunities in Minnesota – allowing acquisition of properties at a fraction of state averages while positioning in a community with proven growth capacity and continued upside potential as demand for affordable housing increases.
6. Butterfield
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 139.95%
- Home value in 2016: $42,634
- Home value in 2017: $41,102
- Home value in 2018: $43,331
- Home value in 2019: $46,321
- Home value in 2020: $41,548
- Home value in 2021: $56,187
- Home value in 2022: $63,836
- Home value in 2023: $82,121
- Home value in 2024: $85,785
- Home value in 2025: $102,300
Butterfield demonstrates exceptional resilience with a 140% growth rate despite significant early volatility, including declines in both 2017 and 2020. The explosive recovery after 2020 showcases this market’s fundamental strength, with values increasing by an extraordinary 146% in just five years. Located in Watonwan County with agricultural roots and small-town character, Butterfield offers unprecedented affordability in today’s market. For investors seeking value, the current $102K price point represents a compelling opportunity to acquire properties at a fraction of state averages while positioning in a community that has demonstrated remarkable growth capacity despite challenges – suggesting continued appreciation potential as rural revival trends strengthen.
5. Hartland
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 148.77%
- Home value in 2016: $56,743
- Home value in 2017: $67,486
- Home value in 2018: $69,696
- Home value in 2019: $77,737
- Home value in 2020: $84,228
- Home value in 2021: $100,236
- Home value in 2022: $114,546
- Home value in 2023: $133,025
- Home value in 2024: $138,502
- Home value in 2025: $141,162
Hartland’s impressive 148.8% growth rate represents extraordinary investment performance, with property values nearly 2.5 times their 2016 levels and generating over $84,000 in equity growth. The strongest acceleration occurred between 2020-2023, with values increasing by nearly 58% in just three years. Located in Freeborn County with agricultural heritage and small-town appeal, Hartland offers extraordinary value compared to regional averages. For buyers seeking affordable entry points with proven appreciation capacity, the current $141K price point represents one of Minnesota’s most compelling opportunities – allowing acquisition of properties at prices well below state averages while positioning in a community with demonstrated growth potential.
4. Rush City
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 152.12%
- Home value in 2016: $98,030
- Home value in 2017: $116,489
- Home value in 2018: $143,202
- Home value in 2019: $166,207
- Home value in 2020: $175,651
- Home value in 2021: $193,419
- Home value in 2022: $217,448
- Home value in 2023: $221,946
- Home value in 2024: $232,294
- Home value in 2025: $247,153
Rush City’s remarkable 152.1% appreciation has created substantial wealth for property owners, with values more than 2.5 times their 2016 levels and generating nearly $150,000 in equity growth. The explosive early growth between 2016-2019 demonstrates how quickly market dynamics can shift, with values increasing by nearly 70% in just three years. Located in Chisago County along the I-35 corridor with excellent access to the Twin Cities, Rush City offers a strategic blend of small-town character and metropolitan connectivity. For investors, Rush City represents one of Minnesota’s most compelling commuter community success stories, with continued growth potential as more buyers seek affordable alternatives within commuting distance of employment centers.
3. Crosby
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 166.17%
- Home value in 2016: $70,054
- Home value in 2017: $69,343
- Home value in 2018: $70,720
- Home value in 2019: $83,578
- Home value in 2020: $100,464
- Home value in 2021: $129,422
- Home value in 2022: $152,848
- Home value in 2023: $174,253
- Home value in 2024: $184,013
- Home value in 2025: $186,466
Crosby’s extraordinary 166.2% growth rate stands among Minnesota’s most impressive investment performances, with property values more than 2.5 times their 2016 levels despite early stagnation. The dramatic inflection point came after 2019, with values more than doubling in just six years as recreational property demand surged. Located in the Cuyuna Lakes region with its transformed mining landscape and world-class mountain biking trails, Crosby exemplifies successful reinvention and recreational tourism development. For investors seeking growth markets with continued upside, Crosby’s combination of outdoor recreation appeal, lake country accessibility, and relatively affordable entry points suggests continued appreciation potential in this increasingly discovered destination.
2. Pine City
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 192.15%
- Home value in 2016: $77,537
- Home value in 2017: $80,127
- Home value in 2018: $91,413
- Home value in 2019: $113,611
- Home value in 2020: $138,020
- Home value in 2021: $166,948
- Home value in 2022: $193,952
- Home value in 2023: $216,065
- Home value in 2024: $218,936
- Home value in 2025: $226,523
Pine City’s remarkable 192.2% growth rate represents extraordinary investment performance, with property values nearly tripling over nine years and generating almost $149,000 in equity growth. The acceleration between 2018-2021 was particularly dramatic, with values increasing by 82.6% in just three years as market perception fundamentally shifted. Located in Pine County along the I-35 corridor with lakes, recreational opportunities, and good access to the Twin Cities, Pine City offers a compelling blend of natural amenities and practical connectivity. For investors, Pine City represents one of Minnesota’s most impressive commuter and recreational property success stories, with continued appreciation potential as more buyers seek affordable alternatives with lifestyle benefits.
1. Freeborn
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 223.23%
- Home value in 2016: $36,959
- Home value in 2017: $48,146
- Home value in 2018: $55,341
- Home value in 2019: $60,430
- Home value in 2020: $64,122
- Home value in 2021: $78,094
- Home value in 2022: $93,883
- Home value in 2023: $108,787
- Home value in 2024: $119,282
- Home value in 2025: $119,463
Freeborn stands as Minnesota’s top-performing housing market with an extraordinary 223.2% growth rate – more than tripling property values from an extremely low starting point. The early growth between 2016-2017 was particularly explosive at 30.3%, suggesting this market’s discovery phase began earlier than many peers. Located in Freeborn County with agricultural heritage and small-town character, this community offers exceptional affordability despite its remarkable appreciation history. For investors seeking value with proven growth potential, Freeborn’s current $119K price point represents Minnesota’s most compelling opportunity – allowing acquisition of properties in a top-performing market at prices still well below state averages while positioning for continued appreciation as affordability remains a critical market driver.
