Lowertown

Saint Paul, MN

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$252,450 (Feb 2025, -27.6% YoY)
Median Home Price
92 (Walker's Paradise)
Walkability Score
Mixed; public schools in the area are average, with some charter and specialty options. Not a primary draw for families with young children.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Roughly bounded by the Mississippi River to the south, Lafayette Road to the east, 7th Street to the north, and Broadway Street to the west. Encompasses the historic warehouse district and Mears Park.

Zip Codes

55101

Market Data Summary

Price Range$200,000–$350,000 for most condos/lofts; some higher-end penthouses exceed $400,000
Price per Sq Ft$193 (down 20.6% YoY as of May 2025)
Inventory LevelsLow to moderate; increased from 2024 but still below balanced market (2 months' supply citywide)[4].

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

CondosLoftsHistoric warehouse conversionsModern apartments

Architectural Styles

Industrial loftHistoric brick warehouseContemporary urban infill

Property Details

Typical Lot SizesMostly multi-unit buildings; limited private outdoor space; some units with balconies or rooftop decks.
Home Age RangeLate 1800s–early 1900s (historic conversions); 2000s–2020s (newer infill)
Construction QualityGenerally high, with many buildings featuring exposed brick, timber beams, and modern finishes. Historic structures often have unique architectural details.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Predominantly young professionals, singles, and couples; growing population of empty nesters and downsizers. Diverse, urban, and arts-oriented.

Community Vibe

Trendy, creative, and urban. Strong arts scene, vibrant nightlife, and active community events centered around Mears Park.

Typical Residents

  • Young professionals
  • Artists
  • Empty nesters
  • Urban retirees

Family Friendly

More suited to adults and couples; limited playgrounds and single-family homes. Some families with older children.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Mears Park
  • Mississippi River trails
  • CHS Field

Dining Options

  • Saint Dinette
  • Big River Pizza
  • Barrel Theory Beer Company
  • Ox Cart Ale House

Shopping Centers

  • Union Depot retail
  • Farmer's Market stalls; limited traditional retail

Local Businesses

  • Black Dog Cafe
  • Lowertown Wine & Spirits
  • CHS Field (Saints baseball)
  • Saint Paul Farmers' Market

Education & Schools

Mixed; public schools in the area are average, with some charter and specialty options. Not a primary draw for families with young children.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Saint Paul City School (K-8, charter)

Middle Schools

  • Saint Paul City School (K-8, charter)

High Schools

  • Creative Arts Secondary School (public, nearby)

Private Schools

  • St. Paul Preparatory School (downtown)

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • Metro Green Line LRT (Union Depot)
  • Multiple Metro Transit bus routes

Major Roads

  • I-94
  • US-52
  • Shepard Road

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times10–15 minutes to downtown Minneapolis by LRT; 20–30 minutes by car to MSP Airport.
WalkabilityExcellent; most errands can be accomplished on foot.
ParkingChallenging; limited street parking, paid ramps, and some buildings with dedicated spaces.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Young professionals
  • Empty nesters
  • Investors (rental)
  • Artists/creatives

Key Selling Points

  • Historic charm with modern amenities
  • Vibrant arts and dining scene
  • Excellent walkability and transit access

Pricing Considerations

Price competitively given recent market correction; highlight value compared to Minneapolis and other Saint Paul neighborhoods.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Noise from nightlife, stadium, and trains.

Response Strategy:

Highlight soundproofing in newer units, and recommend units facing interior courtyards or higher floors.

Objection: Limited parking and high HOA fees.

Response Strategy:

Emphasize walkability, transit options, and buildings with deeded parking. Compare HOA fees to included amenities (security, gym, rooftop, etc.).

Objection: Safety concerns due to urban location.

Response Strategy:

Share recent crime data, highlight active neighborhood watch, and point out well-lit, busy areas.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Moderate; recent price correction may present buying opportunities, but long-term growth depends on continued downtown revitalization.

Rental Demand

Strong, driven by young professionals and proximity to transit and amenities.

Buyer Competition

Moderate; more balanced than peak pandemic years, but unique lofts and historic units still attract multiple offers.

Best For

  • Investors seeking rental income
  • First-time buyers wanting urban lifestyle
  • Empty nesters/downsizers

Potential Concerns

  • HOA fees can be high
  • Limited outdoor/private space
  • Noise and parking challenges

Professional Recommendations

1

Educate buyers on recent price trends and value opportunities.

2

Highlight unique historic features and lifestyle benefits.

3

Prepare buyers for urban trade-offs (parking, noise, HOA fees).

4

Leverage virtual and in-person tours to showcase walkability and amenities.

5

Network with local businesses and arts organizations to enhance marketing.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • Downtown Minneapolis
  • Summit-University
  • North Loop (Minneapolis)

Market Positioning

Best value for urban living with historic character in the Twin Cities.

Competitive Advantages

  • Lower prices than Minneapolis urban core
  • Historic architecture and arts scene
  • Proximity to both downtowns

Price Comparison

Lowertown median ($252K) is below Saint Paul overall ($299K) and well below comparable Minneapolis neighborhoods.

Investment Metrics

4–5% typical for condos/lofts (2025)
Cap Rates
5–6% gross annual yield possible for well-located units
Rental Yields
16–18 (favorable for investors seeking cash flow)
Price-to-Rent
Positive cash flow possible with 20% down and market rents; HOA fees must be factored in.
Cash Flow
Modest 2–4% annual appreciation expected as market stabilizes post-correction.
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

Attractive entry prices, walkable lifestyle, but must budget for HOA fees and parking.

Move-Up Buyers

Limited options for larger units; best suited for those prioritizing location over space.

Downsizers

Ideal for those seeking low-maintenance, urban living with cultural amenities.

Investors

Strong rental demand and stable cash flow; focus on unique/historic units for best returns.

Relocators

Appealing for those seeking urban amenities and transit access; may need orientation to urban living.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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