Independent neighborhood guide, not affiliated with any homeowners association, property manager, city or official board.
Updated October 23, 2026
Prior Lake is one of the best-known waterfront communities in the south metro. Upper and Lower Prior Lake together cover about 1,340 acres, with more than 20 miles of shoreline and six islands, all inside the city of Prior Lake.
If you’re thinking about a lake home here, or selling one, you want to know what the lake is like and what shapes prices along the shore. Here’s my honest take.
Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying nearby.
Life on Prior Lake
The lake reaches about 60 feet at its deepest. Lower Prior is the larger, busier basin. Upper Prior is smaller and quieter, connected by a narrow channel.
Growth came after Highways 169 and 13 made the commute to Minneapolis and the airport practical. Today shoreline is scarce, and lakefront homes are among the most sought-after in Scott County.
Lakefront Park borders the lake and includes Watzl’s Beach on Lower Prior, with a swimming beach, picnic area, boat docks and seasonal slip rentals. Grainwood Crossing is a small park known for shore and dock fishing, and a DNR public access serves boaters.
The Fourth of July boat parade and fireworks, Lakefront Days and summer ski shows bring people to the water. Winter brings ice golf and fish house contests.
Most of the city is served by Prior Lake–Savage Area Schools (ISD 719). Boundaries can change, so confirm the assigned schools for any address with the district.
Prices along the shore depend on frontage, which basin a home sits on, the view, the slope to the water and how deep it is off the dock. Two lake homes of similar size can be far apart in price.
What buyers check before they tour
- Shoreline and docks: Ask what dock, lift and shoreline work is allowed, and check any DNR or watershed rules before you plan changes.
- Water depth: Check how deep the water is off the end of the dock, especially late in summer.
- Septic or sewer: Some lakeshore homes are on septic. Ask for the most recent compliance inspection.
- 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 Prior Lake 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. Thinking about other lakes? Read my guides to White Bear Lake, Forest Lake, Lake Waconia, Bde Maka Ska, or start a buyer plan.
Super Crew Contractors, Ivy Lane Homes and Intrinsic Insurance are owned by David Olson; you are free to use any contractor, builder or insurer.
Prior Lake on video
Your next step in Prior Lake
Every move is different. When you’re ready to talk about yours, I’m a call or text away.
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 Prior Lake.
Stay close to the market, without the noise.
Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Prior Lake homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.
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