Edina

Tucked just southwest of Minneapolis along the shores of several quiet lakes, Edina has a reputation that precedes it — and largely lives up to the hype. This inner-ring suburb has long been one of the Twin Cities’ most sought-after addresses, blending urban convenience with genuine neighborhood charm. Whether you’re relocating for work, upgrading your lifestyle, or simply searching for a place that feels both polished and livable, Edina deserves a serious look.

A City That Fits Multiple Lifestyles

Edina is compact enough to feel like a true community — home to roughly 53,000 residents — yet diverse enough in character that different buyers and renters find their niche. The Morningside neighborhood near the Minneapolis border attracts younger families drawn to its walkable streets and bungalow-style homes. Countryside and Creek Knoll offer a quieter, more established feel with mature trees and larger lots. Then there’s the area surrounding 50th & France, Edina’s beloved commercial corridor, which pulls in residents who want boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops practically at their doorstep. The city’s median age hovers around 45, which signals a mature, settled community — but that doesn’t mean it feels stagnant. New businesses, updated parks, and a steady influx of relocating professionals keep things feeling current.

Cost of Living and Housing

Here’s where honest advice matters most: Edina is not cheap. The median home price sits at approximately $624,000, which is significantly above both state and national averages. Single-family homes near top-rated schools in the Edina School District tend to command premium prices, and inventory moves quickly. Condominiums and townhomes near Centennial Lakes or along France Avenue offer entry points for buyers who want the Edina address without the full commitment of a detached home. Renters will find options, though they’re limited compared to neighboring Bloomington or Richfield. The good news is that the median household income in Edina — around $129,000 — reflects a community where many residents can genuinely sustain these housing costs. Utilities, groceries, and everyday expenses run close to typical Twin Cities averages, so the premium is largely baked into real estate.

Employment and Economy

Edina itself is home to several significant employers. Fairview Southdale Hospital is one of the largest, and the broader healthcare corridor along France Avenue supports numerous clinics and medical offices. Edina Realty has its headquarters here, and the retail concentration at Southdale Center — considered the first enclosed shopping mall in the United States — supports both corporate and service-sector jobs. Most Edina residents, however, commute into Minneapolis or to suburban employment hubs in Eden Prairie and Bloomington, both easily accessible via Interstate 494 and Highway 100. Remote workers particularly appreciate Edina’s proximity to downtown Minneapolis (about 20 minutes in normal traffic) without the density or parking challenges of city living.

Lifestyle and Recreation

Lakes define leisure in Edina. Lake Cornelia, Centennial Lakes Park, and the chain of smaller lakes throughout the city provide trails, kayaking, and winter skating. Braemar Golf Course is a well-regarded municipal facility that draws golfers from across the metro. The 50th & France district competes with Minneapolis neighborhoods for restaurant and shopping quality, featuring independent shops alongside national names. The Edina Art Center offers classes and gallery exhibits year-round, and the community’s parks system is consistently well-maintained and heavily used.

The Bottom Line

Edina rewards those who can afford it with excellent schools, safe streets, beautiful parks, and easy metro access. It’s a practical choice for established professionals and families willing to pay for quality of place. If the housing prices give you pause, explore nearby Richfield or Hopkins first — but if the numbers work, Edina tends to deliver on its promises.