The 7 Best Places to Retire in Minnesota: Discover Excelsior’s Lake Lifestyle Charm
When it comes to finding the perfect place to retire, Minnesota offers a rare combination of beauty, comfort, and community. From picturesque small towns to luxurious lakefront living, retirees can enjoy peaceful surroundings while staying close to modern conveniences.
Whether you dream of waterfront mornings, walkable neighborhoods, or a friendly downtown filled with charm, Minnesota delivers. In this guide, Excelsior Real Estate highlights the best places to retire in Minnesota, and why Excelsior and the Lake Minnetonka area stand out as the ultimate destination for lakeside living.
1. Excelsior, MN: The Jewel of Lake Minnetonka
If there’s one town that captures Minnesota’s lakeside charm and sophistication, it’s Excelsior. Nestled along Lake Minnetonka, this historic yet vibrant community perfectly balances serenity with energy.
Why retirees love Excelsior:
- Scenic Lakeside Living: Enjoy peaceful morning walks along the shoreline and evenings spent boating or watching the sunset over the lake.
- Charming Downtown: Explore boutique shops, cozy cafés, and waterfront dining, all within walking distance.
- Engaged Community: From summer concerts to seasonal festivals like Apple Day and Art on the Lake, Excelsior thrives year-round.
- Diverse Housing Options: Choose from elegant townhomes, lakeside estates, or modern condos close to the marina.
Lifestyle Highlight:
Imagine sipping coffee on your balcony overlooking Lake Minnetonka, meeting neighbors at the farmers market, and ending your day with dinner at Maynards on the waterfront, that’s everyday life in Excelsior.
2. Wayzata: Sophisticated and Scenic
Located just across the lake, Wayzata combines urban convenience with natural beauty. Known for its upscale shopping, gourmet dining, and proximity to Minneapolis, it’s ideal for retirees who want elegance and accessibility.
Why retirees choose Wayzata:
- Waterfront condos and luxury apartments with panoramic views.
- Premier restaurants and boutique stores along Lake Street.
- Quick access to healthcare facilities and major highways.
- A thriving local arts and dining scene.
Perfect for:
Those seeking a balance between high-end living and a laid-back lakeside lifestyle.
3. Minnetonka: Peaceful and Connected
Minnetonka offers everything retirees love about suburban life: quiet neighborhoods, spacious parks, and easy access to Minneapolis. It’s also one of the most well-connected areas near Lake Minnetonka.
Why it stands out:
- Miles of scenic trails and parklands for biking or walking.
- Variety of homes, from single-family residences to maintenance-free townhomes.
- Strong sense of community and safety.
- Excellent healthcare and shopping options nearby.
Perfect for:
Retirees who want serenity without sacrificing proximity to amenities.
4. Chanhassen: Green, Friendly, and Convenient
Consistently ranked among Minnesota’s best cities to live in, Chanhassen offers family-friendly charm and abundant green spaces. It’s a short drive from Excelsior and ideal for those who love peaceful surroundings and outdoor recreation.
Top perks:
- Dozens of parks and walking trails.
- Nearby lakes, Lake Minnewashta and Lotus Lake.
- Local farmers markets and community festivals.
- Easy access to Excelsior’s shopping and dining.
Perfect for:
Nature-loving retirees who want quiet living with community connection.
5. Edina: Urban Comfort with Suburban Serenity
Just 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, Edina provides retirees with a mix of upscale city amenities and small-town tranquility. Its walkable neighborhoods and access to premium healthcare make it a popular choice.
Why retirees love Edina:
- Excellent healthcare and senior services.
- Trendy restaurants and boutique shopping at Edina Galleria.
- Beautiful parks and fitness programs for active seniors.
- Safe, well-maintained communities.
Perfect for:
Retirees who prefer city conveniences but want a slower pace of life.
6. Stillwater: Historic Charm by the St. Croix River
On the eastern edge of the Twin Cities lies Stillwater, one of the most picturesque and historic towns in Minnesota. Overlooking the St. Croix River, it’s a haven for retirees who appreciate culture, art, and community.
Why retirees choose Stillwater:
- Riverside walking paths and scenic overlooks.
- Affordable homes with vintage charm.
- Vibrant arts and dining culture.
- Relaxed, small-town feel with easy access to the metro area.
Perfect for:
Those who want to retire in a storybook town with a strong sense of history and warmth.
7. Duluth: Lake Superior’s Majestic Escape
If you crave adventure and fresh air, Duluth is one of the best retirement communities in Minnesota. Perched on the shores of Lake Superior, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
What makes Duluth unique:
- Breathtaking lake views and scenic trails.
- Active arts scene and cultural festivals.
- Lower cost of living compared to metro areas.
- Strong sense of community and volunteerism.
Perfect for:
Retirees seeking affordability, outdoor adventure, and natural beauty.
Is Excelsior a Good Place to Retire? Absolutely.
Beyond its beauty, Excelsior is built for community and connection. It offers a sophisticated, small-town experience with big-city access, making it one of the best small towns in Minnesota to retire.
Pros of Retiring in Excelsior:
- Close-knit community and friendly locals.
- Waterfront recreation and lakeside dining.
- Quick access to medical care and Minneapolis (25 minutes away).
- Strong property appreciation and investment potential.
- Walkable streets and year-round cultural events.
Bottom line: Excelsior isn’t just a place to retire, it’s a place to belong.
Planning Your Move? Let Excelsior Real Estate Guide You
Retirement is about living life on your terms, and at Excelsior Real Estate, we help you find the perfect home to do just that. From luxurious lakefront estates to cozy downtown condos, our team of Lake Minnetonka experts ensures every step of your move is seamless, transparent, and tailored to your goals.
FAQs
Q1. Is there a mandated retirement age in Minnesota?
No, Minnesota doesn’t have a mandatory retirement age. You can choose to retire, or keep working, whenever it suits your lifestyle.
Q2. What makes Lake Minnetonka ideal for retirees?
Its serene environment, upscale neighborhoods, recreational opportunities, and proximity to the Twin Cities make Lake Minnetonka a premier retirement destination.
Q3. Are homes near Excelsior and Lake Minnetonka expensive?
Prices vary widely depending on property type and location, from charming downtown condos to luxurious multi-million-dollar lakefront homes. Excelsior Real Estate can help match your goals and budget.
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to Excelsior’s lakeside sophistication, Wayzata’s elegance, or Stillwater’s historic charm, Minnesota offers endless opportunities for an inspiring retirement.
The perfect balance of nature, community, and comfort awaits, and no place captures that better than Excelsior.