Haven’t you always wanted to discover a place that feels both close to the Twin Cities and a world away? Welcome to North Oaks. It is an exclusive private community that spans 6,000 acres. These acres encompass rolling hills and dense woods. You’ll also find open meadows, serene lakes, and vibrant wetlands here.
North Oaks boasts a rich history. It began as a water source for Saint Paul. Later, James J. Hill transformed it into a sprawling farm in 1883. Hill’s son, Louis, continued to develop North Oaks Farm until his death in 1950. Louis’ children decided to create a residential community. They founded the North Oaks Company. Their mission was to build with respect for nature. They had witnessed metropolitan sprawl and wanted something different.
The North Oaks Company subdivided the land. They sold it with a unique warranty deed. This deed established the North Oaks Home Owners’ Association. NOHOA maintains the roads and recreational facilities. Interestingly, each homeowner owns the land halfway into the street. This makes all roads private.
The city of North Oaks has a city government. It includes a mayor and city council. They administer basic services such as fire and police. They also handle planning and licensing. But the city owns no property.
Many original farm buildings still stand. They have been restored and feature informational displays. However, they are not open to the public. North Oaks values its privacy. Two structures are on the National Register of Historic Places. These are the Blacksmith Shop and Machine Shop and Dairy Building.
Speaking of privacy, North Oaks once requested Google to remove Street View images. This was due to trespassing concerns. Google complied. So, you won’t find street view imagery within North Oaks.
North Oaks offers many outdoor activities. Residents enjoy hiking and sailing. They also appreciate skiing, biking, birding, and golfing. The community is known for its safety. It is considered one of the safest in Minnesota.
North Oaks is designed for families in all stages of life. There are neighborhoods for young families. Other neighborhoods are perfect for those enjoying retirement. The community emphasizes privacy and natural beauty. Professionally designed developments place homes in beautiful settings. These settings surround protected lands. These include a conservation area and an agricultural area. A pines area is also protected. Permanent conservation easements preserve the natural environment.
North Oaks has a unique demographic profile. The population was 5,272 in 2020. It is currently declining slightly. The median age is around 43 years. A high percentage of residents are married. Many have bachelor’s or graduate degrees.
The community values education. High school and bachelor’s degree attainment rates are high. Most residents speak only English. But some speak Spanish or other languages. North Oaks also has a significant veteran population.
As we conclude our visit to North Oaks, remember its blend of history and nature. Think about its commitment to privacy and community. North Oaks offers a unique living experience. It is close to city amenities. Yet it maintains a world of its own.