Lake Forest, St. Louis Park,MN

If you’re considering a move to St. Louis Park, MN, the Lake Forest area in the northwest part of the city is definitely worth exploring. Known for its serene, tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes, Lake Forest offers a peaceful suburban vibe with a strong sense of community. Residents appreciate the balance of quiet neighborhoods and convenient access to local amenities, making it a great choice for families, young professionals, and anyone seeking a welcoming environment. The schools in this area are highly rated, which is a big plus for families relocating with children.

One of the standout attractions in Lake Forest is its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. The neighborhood is home to several green areas, including the popular Lake Forest Park, where you can enjoy walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots. For those who love staying active, the nearby Westwood Hills Nature Center provides excellent hiking opportunities and a chance to connect with nature. Foodies and shoppers will also enjoy the close proximity to the Shoppes of West End, a lively shopping district offering a variety of dining options, boutiques, and services that cater to everyday needs and special outings alike.

Getting to Downtown Minneapolis from Lake Forest is a breeze, with just about a 15- to 20-minute drive depending on traffic. This makes it an ideal location for commuters who want to enjoy a quieter residential area without sacrificing easy access to the city’s cultural attractions, employment centers, and vibrant nightlife. Public transit options are also available nearby, adding to the convenience for those who prefer not to drive. All in all, Lake Forest in St. Louis Park is a wonderful neighborhood that combines comfort, convenience, and charm for anyone looking to settle in the northwest part of the city.

21% of the Lake Forest population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 21% 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.

Lake Forest demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 802 residents, Lake Forest is notably smaller than many other St. Louis Park neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Lake Forest has a population density of 3,455, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other St. Louis Park 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.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 45, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

The Lake Forest crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Lake Forest, home prices come in around $587,400, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Lake Forest can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $1,790, rental rates in Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest. 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 Lake Forest 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.