Independent neighborhood guide, not affiliated with any homeowners association, property manager, city or official board.
Updated October 23, 2026
Minnetonka takes its name from the Dakota words “mni tonka,” meaning “great water.” It’s one of the larger suburbs in the southwest metro, about 20 minutes from Minneapolis.
The city has more than 50,000 residents across about 28 square miles, and it’s the largest city with shoreline on Lake Minnetonka.
Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying nearby.
Getting around
Interstate 394 and Interstate 494 both run through Minnetonka, connecting it to the rest of the metro. It’s home to the headquarters of UnitedHealth Group and many other employers, and it sits next to busy commercial neighbors like Eden Prairie. Ridgedale Center is the city’s big shopping hub.
The lake connection
Minnetonka has only one public access point to Lake Minnetonka, but the lake still shapes life here, and parks in neighboring towns open up even more of it. Lake Minnetonka’s main outlet, Minnehaha Creek, flows through Minneapolis to Minnehaha Falls and the Mississippi River.
See Minnetonka trails, parks and beaches, community life and Minnetonka history.
What buyers check before they tour
- Schools: Much of Minnetonka is served by Minnetonka Public Schools (ISD 276), but parts of the city fall in Hopkins or Wayzata schools. Confirm the assigned schools for any address.
- Condition: Roof, windows, mechanicals and drainage tell you more about a home’s next ten years than the paint color does. Plan a professional inspection.
A simple plan for your Minnetonka move
I’ve been helping people sell and buy homes across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida for about two decades, and I build and remodel luxury homes too. I’ll help you see both what a property is and what it could be.
Getting the house ready, or making it yours
If you’re selling and want repairs handled before buyers see them, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate. If you’re ready for something custom, Ivy Lane Homes does luxury home building and remodeling. And a quick coverage check with Intrinsic Insurance before closing can save you a surprise. Learn more about Minnetonka, its schools and Lake Minnetonka.
Super Crew Contractors, Ivy Lane Homes and Intrinsic Insurance are owned by David Olson; you are free to use any contractor, builder or insurer.
Minnetonka on video
Your next step in Minnetonka
Minnetonka homes are priced neighborhood by neighborhood. Whether you’re selling or buying, I’ll help you make a plan that fits.
Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with sellers and buyers, and that’s where I can help you most in Minnetonka.
Stay close to the market, without the noise.
Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Minnetonka homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.
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