Welcome to Blaine, Minnesota: Your Perfect Community Awaits!
Everything Blaine.
From setting up your Xcel energy bill to finding the secret beach at Lakeside Commons. Here is your digital rolodex for life in Blaine, MN.
EMERGENCY & CITY CONTACTS
MOVING IN? SET UP YOUR UTILITIES.
Electricity
Blaine is served by two providers depending on your address. Check your map or call to confirm.
Trash & Recycling
Blaine uses an “Open Hauling” system. You must choose one of the licensed providers below:
Internet / Fiber
Major providers in the area:
- Xfinity (Comcast) – Widely available cable internet.
- Quantum Fiber (CenturyLink) – High-speed fiber in select neighborhoods.
- Midco – Available in certain northern sections.
SCHOOL DISTRICTS
Blaine is unique—it is served by three major districts. Check your address carefully.
District 11
Anoka-Hennepin
The largest district in MN. Covers the majority of central/northern Blaine.
- High School: Blaine HS
- Feeder: Northdale / Roosevelt
District 16
Spring Lake Park
Serves the southern portion of Blaine (closest to Hwy 10).
- High School: SLP High School
- Feeder: Westwood Middle
District 12
Centennial
Serves the eastern edge of Blaine (near Lexington Ave).
- High School: Centennial HS
- Feeder: Centennial Middle
LIFE IN BLAINE: THE HIGHLIGHTS
Lakeside Commons Park
The “Crown Jewel” of Blaine parks. It features a public beach, splash pad, and canoe rentals. INSIDER TIP Get there before 11 AM on weekends in July; the parking lot fills up fast!
National Sports Center (NSC)
The world’s largest amateur sports facility. Home to the MN United training ground and the massive USA Cup soccer tournament every July.
Home of the 3M Open
Every summer, the PGA Tour descends on the TPC Twin Cities in Blaine. It’s the biggest party in the North Metro. Even if you don’t golf, the fireworks show and the “Fan Village” are worth the ticket.
The Growth Engine of the North
Nestled in the northern suburbs of the Twin Cities, Blaine isn’t just a “bedroom community”—it’s a booming economic hub. Known for its rapid expansion, family-friendly atmosphere, and the massive National Sports Center, Blaine attracts everyone from young professionals to growing families. But with rapid growth comes growing pains (we’re looking at you, Hwy 65). This guide cuts through the noise to tell you what it’s really like to live here.
📊 The 2026 Data Center
Parks and Recreation Galore
One of the standout features of Blaine is its dedication to activity. The city boasts over 60 parks and more than 1,500 acres of open space. We detail the best spots in our North Metro Playbook, but here are the heavy hitters:
- National Sports Center: This isn’t just a park; it’s an economic engine. As the home of the USA Cup, it brings the world to Blaine.
- Lakeside Commons Park: A beautiful space with a scenic lake, beach, and splash pad. It’s the summer hotspot for families.
- Centennial Park: Home to stunning trails and a community center.
Realist Note: During the USA Cup in July, traffic near the Sports Center is intense. Plan accordingly.
Strong Education and Schools
Education is a priority in Blaine, primarily served by the Anoka-Hennepin School District, though parts touch the Centennial and Spring Lake Park districts. This variety offers parents choices. The district offers a range of quality educational opportunities, including exceptional public and charter schools. (See School House Rock & Bourbon for my candid take on navigating these districts).
Local Amenities and Dining
Blaine used to be a “chain restaurant” town, but that is changing fast. While we have every major retailer you can imagine (Target, Walmart, Lowe’s), the local scene is bubbling up:
- The Foursome Restaurant: A classic spot for casual dining with family-friendly options.
- Invictus Brewing: Located right next to the National Sports Center, it’s a staple for local craft beer.
- El Loro: A popular local Mexican restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere.
For a full breakdown of the best burgers in the area, check out the 2026 Burger Wars.
Real Estate Opportunities in Blaine
As a local real estate expert, I understand the Blaine housing market inside and out. It is distinct from Coon Rapids because of the age of the homes. You will find fewer 1950s ramblers and far more 1990s split-levels and 2020s new construction.
Whether you’re looking for a starter townhome or a custom build in a development like The Lakes, Blaine has inventory. However, you need to understand the Tax Implications of New Construction before you sign. I take pride in providing personalized service tailored to your individual needs.
Fun Facts & Realist Intel
1. The Highway 65 Factor
You can’t talk about Blaine without talking about Hwy 65. It’s the central artery, and it gets clogged. The good news? Massive funding has been secured to turn intersections into overpasses. Read the details in our Infrastructure Report.
2. The “Future” Series
Blaine is undergoing a metamorphosis. From the redevelopment of Northtown (on the border) to the massive commercial projects north of 105th Ave, the city is changing. I wrote a 3-part series on this because it’s that important. Start reading with Blaine Future Part 1.
3. Parks and Recreation
Blaine’s commitment to parks is legendary. The National Sports Center isn’t just for soccer; the Velodrome and Super Rink make it a winter sports haven too. (Check our Winter Systems Check).
4. Education Options
Because Blaine sits at the convergence of three school districts (Anoka-Hennepin, Spring Lake Park, Centennial), your home address determines your school path significantly. Always check the boundaries before buying.
5. Community Events
The Blaine Festival is the annual highlight—rides, games, and food. It’s a great way to meet the neighbors. As a real estate agent, I emphasize community engagement because it turns a house into a home.
6. Safety and Public Services
Blaine prides itself on being a safe community with a well-funded police force. The rapid growth has led to new fire stations and public safety investments to keep response times low.
7. Housing Variety
Blaine offers a mix that other suburbs lack: affordably priced townhomes for first-time buyers, mid-range family homes, and luxury executive estates. It allows you to move up without moving out.
8. Transportation
Beyond Hwy 65, access to I-35W via Lexington Ave is a crucial commuter hack. The commute to downtown Minneapolis is manageable, provided you know the Traffic Hacks.
Ready to Move to Blaine?
Blaine is a vibrant community that perfectly balances suburban tranquility with urban convenience. But the market moves fast, and the specific neighborhood you choose impacts your commute and school options heavily.
Let’s find the right fit for your lifestyle.
Contact JZ for a Strategy CallJacob Zwack | Minnesota Real Estate Team | 763-250-3146