Long Lake is the least expensive route into the Orono school district — comparable homes across the border can run $200,000 more. Its history as the service hub for Orono's estates left it with more shops and restaurants than its pricier neighbors. Median price is $550,000 with 22 days on market. Chris Deutsch of Lakes Area Realty calls this the west metro's best value hack.
Small Town, Practical, Connected
Long Lake is a small, hard-working town that serves as the gateway to the wealthier Orono and Medina. It has a great commercial core, access to the actual Long Lake, and offers a more affordable entry point to the highly-rated Orono school district.
The Service Hub
What is Chris Deutsch's honest take on Long Lake?
Long Lake is the value hack. You get the Orono Schools and the lake life, but you can find a normal house for a normal price. It’s unpretentious and super convenient.
Smart Money Move?
Let's look at the raw data. No sugarcoating.
Monthly "All-In"
Estimated mortgage, taxes, and insurance.
$3,650/mo
Down Payment
*Based on a 7% rate and $550,000 price. In Long Lake, taxes vary by block, but this gets you in the ballpark.
Run your own numbersBuying in Long Lake is the cheapest way to get a 'District 278 (Orono)' address. The price difference between a Long Lake rambler and an Orono rambler (same school) can be $200k.
Real Talk Warning
The traffic on Wayzata Blvd (Old Hwy 12) can be annoying at rush hour. The train runs through here too.
Living in Long Lake
It's not just about the house; it's about the Tuesday morning coffee run and the Friday night walk. Here's who thrives here.
Is Long Lake Your Match?
This neighborhood isn't for everyone. It's specifically optimized for these three lifestyles.
School Strategist
278
Buying for the Orono school district.
skier
XC
Gear West makes this a hub for cross-country skiers.
Local
Townie
A tight-knit community that supports its own.
Local Gems & Secrets
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chris Deutsch's honest take on Long Lake?
Long Lake is the value hack. You get the Orono Schools and the lake life, but you can find a normal house for a normal price. It’s unpretentious and super convenient.
What is the catch with Long Lake?
The traffic on Wayzata Blvd (Old Hwy 12) can be annoying at rush hour. The train runs through here too.
What are the best local secrets in Long Lake?
Birch's on the Lake is the best supper club vibe in the west metro. Red Rooster is where the locals grab a burger.
What makes Long Lake special?
Long Lake is known for Orono Schools, Long Lake, Birch's on the Lake, Luce Line.
What is the average home price in Long Lake?
The average home price in Long Lake is $550,000, with homes typically spending 22 days on market. 85 homes sold last year.
Sources & Data
The market, school, and walkability figures on this page for Long Lake come from these sources.
Market data as of April 2026
- NorthstarMLS — Regional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota — Median sale price ($550,000), days on market (22), and homes sold for Long Lake, as of April 2026.
- Minneapolis Area REALTORS® — Local Market Reports — Twin Cities metro market statistics used to contextualize Long Lake pricing and inventory trends.
- Minnesota Report Card — Minnesota Department of Education — School enrollment and performance data for the Long Lake area.
- U.S. Census Bureau — QuickFacts — Population, housing unit, and homeownership context for Long Lake and the surrounding city.
- Walk Score® — Walkability & Transit Scores — Walkability (5/100) and transit (5/100) methodology and scoring for Long Lake.
Exploring Beyond Long Lake
No sales pitches here. Just some honest tools, real data, and practical guides to help you figure out the next steps.
Thinking About Long Lake?
I've been helping people find homes in Long Lake for over two decades. If you're curious about what's out there — or just want to know what your home might be worth — I'm happy to chat. No pitch, no pressure. Just real talk over coffee.