Zoo, Apple Valley,MN

If you're considering a move to Apple Valley, MN, the Zoo neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a wonderful blend of suburban tranquility and family-friendly amenities. This area is particularly known for its welcoming community atmosphere and well-maintained parks, making it a great choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. One of the standout attractions nearby is the Apple Valley Family Aquatic Center, a fantastic spot for cooling off during the summer months with its water slides and splash pads. The neighborhood also boasts easy access to numerous walking trails and green spaces, perfect for those who enjoy jogging, biking, or leisurely strolls surrounded by natural beauty.

Living in the Zoo neighborhood means you're never far from convenient shopping and dining options, with the Apple Valley Mall and several local eateries just a short drive away. For families, the area is served by highly rated schools, which adds to its appeal for those relocating with children. Additionally, the neighborhood’s proximity to parks like the Lebanon Hills Regional Park gives residents opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and even cross-country skiing in the winter. With community centers and recreational programs nearby, there’s always something to engage in, whether you’re looking to meet neighbors or stay active throughout the year.

For those who commute or enjoy city life, the Zoo neighborhood is about a 25-minute drive northwest to downtown Minneapolis, making it a manageable distance for work or weekend outings. This balance between quiet suburban living and accessibility to a major urban center is a big draw for many new residents. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to settle down or a community with plenty of activities and conveniences, the Zoo neighborhood in Apple Valley offers a delightful combination that’s sure to make you feel right at home.

In Zoo, 34% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 34% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Zoo demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 5,164, the number of residents who reside in Zoo is about average in size compared to other Apple Valley neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

Zoo has a population density of 2,623, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Apple Valley neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 38, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Zoo crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Zoo, the median home price is about $326,863, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Zoo have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

With an average rent price of $1,668, rental rates in Zoo are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Zoo. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Zoo offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.