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Northfield, Minnesota

What It Is Like to Retire in Northfield

Northfield Minnesota, located in the southeastern part of the state, is a lovely college town that boasts not one, but 2 thriving private colleges. Carleton College and St. Olaf are both located here and their student populations give a decidedly youthful feel to the town. Hence their motto - "Two colleges, one town". Northfield's population grew 14% in the past 8 years.

Northfield has a first class small downtown square, Bridge Square on the Cannon River. The square and the lovely downtown is prosperous and unusually nice for Minnesota small towns. Main Street is lined with specialty shops.

A big part of the lore of Northfield is the attempted robbery of the First National Bank of Northfield by Jesse James and his Gang in 1876. The event is commemorated every year with a festival. Photo of Aerial view of Carleton College courtesy of Wikipedia and Dogs1337 (public domain).

Where to Retire in Northfield and Home Prices

The senior citizen market is growing as so many retirees recognize the charms of Northfield. The Village on the Cannon, Millstream Commons, and new construction at the Northfield Retirement Center complex. A residential and commercial project is being built along the river on the north edge of downtown. Zillow.com reports the median home value to be $284,714 in early 2020. Development emanating from St. Paul and Minneapolis has increased property values in Northfield.

What Is Special about Northfield

Carleton College Cowling Arboretum. Living in a college town with 2 great colleges. Jesse James connection. An unusually pretty downtown. Great stock of 19th/early 20th century homes. The commercial, cultural, and professional sports attractions of Minneapolis and St. Paul are less than 35 miles away.

What Is Not Special about Northfield

Minnesota winters.

Who Will Like Retirement in Northfield

Northfield attracts baby boomers and other retirees who want to live in a prosperous college town. Obviously alumni of St. Olaf and Carleton College are attracted here.

Local Economy Is Driven by

The 2 colleges and the town's proximity to Minneapolis drive the local economy.

Climate and Physical Environment

Located on the Cannon River in southeastern Minnesota. St. Paul and Minneapolis are only about 35 miles away.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Carleton and St. Olaf have many cultural events that enliven Northfield's cultural scene. The Northfield Arts Guild Theater provides an annual season of plays and musicals. Carleton College has three production companies. St. Olaf College's theater department presents five theatrical productions per year. The St. Olaf Christmas Festival attracts thousands of visitors. The Bridge Chamber Music Festival is held in June. Galleries include the Northfield Arts Guild Gallery, St. Olaf College and Carleton College galleries.