Moving to MN- Office in Lakeville

[TimtheGuy]

Originally Posted by Goose-boy

Fair point, but I like a few houses in Apple Valley thus my question on how good schools are qualified as such, other than ratings by GreatSchools.org. I will be a first time buyer and new to MN so I think it's very valuable to get input from the experienced participants here.

Highly doubt there is much difference in the school districts you mention. All excellent areas and schools.

[TimtheGuy]

Originally Posted by Citykid3785

I'm qualified to answer this because I went to school in Eagan (D196) and my wife went to Lakeville (D194). We now live in Apple Valley. There is essentially no distinction between any of the D196 schools. Generally speaking AV is the same as Eagan, is the same as Rosemount. They are all excellent. My wife also worked in the district office for Lakevile (D194). Lakeville is also a great district, it's just moreso battling the budget and dealing with ups and downs of booming over the last 20 years, where D196 is a little more stable in that sense. Once again, splitting hairs.

I'll also add my own opinion. Farmington has cheaper housing, but it's not like the others. It has terrible highway access, and lack of retail or restaurants. My people in Farmington need to rely on neighboring towns for amenities. Once again, just my opinion from knowing the south metro well, it has a dingy feel to it.

Lakeville is the most sprawly, with very spread out central retail locations
Eagan is closest to the airport and both cities, is very mature, fully developed, and quiet
AV is slightly younger than Eagan, slightly worse highway access, but great amenities and parks, slightly cheaper than Eagan. Still some newer home development plots.

I would personally stay away from Bloomington, especially given the river commute.

^^^^all of this