Increased Housing Demands Signal Positive Growth for Long Prairie

Life in Long Prairie is rural and peaceful, offering businesses and residents the opportunity to put down roots in a close-knit, supportive, and growing, friendly community.

*It’s a small town, yet has a lot to offer, job opportunity, private and public school systems, sports programs, Lake Charlotte, an 18 hole golf course, drive in movie theater, restaurants, and an active chamber of commerce, all while being close to larger cities,” said Melissa Terwey, Realtor GRI with East West Realty.

And when people can find a home here that fits their individual needs, they’re more likely to stay here, work here, and spend here; all of which represents a key investment in our town’s future.

From a variety of supportive services for parents including multiple childcare options to endless outdoor recreation activities, the area has become increasingly appealing to those looking for a high quality of life and low cost of living.

“Long Prairie is a diverse community with something to offer everyone,” said Brandon Kelly, Broker, Central MN Realty’s Long Prairie Office. “We have excellent health care available, lots of options for dining, and many lakes and lots of public land for recreational use.”

Homes in Long Prairie Are Significantly More Affordable Than Elsewhere

Also a draw? The cost of housing.

Housing in Long Prairie is significantly more affordable than the national average. According to Zillow, our median home values are around $236k, which is also well below metro areas like Minneapolis, where $380k is the median.

“We are seeing a lot of remodels, additions, new windows, new roofs etc. There’s still new houses getting built as well, so I’d say it’s 50/50 right now,” said Lee Miller of Long Prairie Lumber.

Spring also still reigns supreme as prime time for buying and selling.

“The spring market always attracts all types of buyers. It’s the perfect time for first time buyers and trade up buyers to make a move,” said Kelly. “Affordable housing that is priced under $200,000 and with a condition that can qualify for low down payment programs is the housing most in demand.”

It’s also an ideal time to start budgeting for and building your dream home.

“For the average, a 1,500 sq. ft., 3 bedroom home, slab-on-grade (no basement) with nothing extra or fancy, will cost you roughly $350k - $400k to build new, not including well or septic if outside of the city,” offered Miller. 

Positioning Long Prairie for Steady Growth 

From an economic standpoint, the increased housing demand is positioning the region for steady growth.

When workers are able to find housing easily, our businesses enjoy a better shot at employee retention.

And with more people in the area, our schools, churches, youth programs, and local businesses all benefit, creating a positive domino effect that ensures Long Prairie remains a vibrant community for years to come. 

Long Prairie Has a House You Can Call Home

With Minnesota ranking 2nd best State for Quality of Life (World Population Review 2022) as well as 3rd Best State to Raise a Family (WalletHub 2024), communities like ours have caught the attention of young professionals, families, and retirees alike.

Long Prairie offers a variety of housing options, from rental properties to a variety of senior homes for folks looking to retire in a beautiful and charming community.

“With higher interest rates, first time home buyers dropped last year but retirees downsizing left options for original first time home buyers to upgrade to something larger for their family. We also had quite a few people looking to purchase a home after relocating here,” said Terwey.

From attainably priced starter homes to opulent luxury homes built to entertain and pamper, you can find a house to call home in Long Prairie!