Home Buying in Edina vs Minnetonka vs Plymouth: Which Suburb Is Right for You?
If you’re serious about buying a home in the west metro, chances are you’re looking at Edina, Minnetonka, or Plymouth. All three are A-tier suburbs. All three offer stability, schools, and long-term value.
But they aren’t the same.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving up, or relocating for the long haul—here’s a no-fluff breakdown of how these three cities stack up when it comes to home buying in Edina vs Minnetonka vs Plymouth.
Edina: Polished, Prestigious, and Pricey
Average Sale Price: ~$700K+
Vibe: Luxury, legacy, name recognition
Best For: Buyers who want top schools, resale strength, and a premium zip code
Edina is where people go when they want certainty. The schools are nationally ranked. The homes are architecturally dialed in. And if your goal is a short commute and long-term equity? Edina delivers.
But you’ll pay for it. And most starter homes are either outdated or getting full gut jobs before resale.
Pros:
Elite school district
15 mins to downtown
Strong neighborhood identity (Countryside, Country Club, Concord)
Cons:
Expensive entry point
Competitive bidding wars
Less land per dollar
Bottom Line:
If you want turnkey prestige, Edina is the play. If you’re looking for more space or budget flexibility, read on.
Minnetonka: Mature, Private, and Quietly Upscale
Average Sale Price: ~$550K
Vibe: Trees, trails, and long driveways
Best For: Buyers who want space, privacy, and nature within reach of the city
Minnetonka is what happens when you blend Edina quality with a more laid-back pace. You get larger lots, more trees, fewer sidewalks, and homes that feel tucked away—not packed in.
This city has strong schools, tons of parks, and a range of price points—from affordable 1970s split-levels to $1M+ lakefront estates.
Pros:
Mature trees + natural beauty
Bigger lots, more breathing room
Less flash, more function
Cons:
Not walkable in most neighborhoods
Inventory can be older and less updated
Commute times vary by pocket
Bottom Line:
If you want space, quiet, and quality without paying Edina premiums, Minnetonka is a smart move.
Plymouth: Family-Friendly, Modern, and High-Functioning
Average Sale Price: ~$500K
Vibe: Young families, new construction, planned communities
Best For: Buyers who want newer homes, strong schools, and suburban structure
Plymouth is the definition of practical excellence. It's ranked one of the best cities to live in Minnesota year after year, and it shows—top-tier Wayzata schools, modern subdivisions, and amenities for days.
You're not buying legacy. You're buying longevity, low maintenance, and layout efficiency.
Pros:
Great schools (Wayzata District)
More newer homes and developments
Parks, trails, and community infrastructure
Cons:
Feels more suburban/master-planned
Less architectural diversity
Longer commute to downtown
Bottom Line:
Plymouth is the no-brainer for families who want new homes, a strong school district, and don’t care if their neighbor’s house looks a lot like theirs.
Quick Comparison
CityAvg. PriceBest ForX-FactorEdina~$700KPrestige + resale valueElite schools, name brandMinnetonka~$550KPrivacy + natural settingBigger lots, hidden gemsPlymouth~$500KFamilies + newer constructionTop schools + suburban ease
Final Word
When it comes to home buying in Edina vs Minnetonka vs Plymouth, there’s no wrong answer—just different fits for different lives.
Want turnkey prestige and walkability? Go Edina.
Want space and peace with quality? Minnetonka.
Want modern homes and top schools in a practical setting? Plymouth.
Ready to figure out which one fits your goals? I’ll help you run the numbers, compare neighborhoods, and buy smart—without the overwhelm.
