Area guide · Anoka County

Ramsey, MN: a local Realtor's guide

Two rivers, two regional parks and a wide range of homes, from wooded lots to townhomes. Here's what to know about buying or selling in Ramsey.

Ramsey, MN sits on the Mississippi River in western Anoka County, between Anoka, Andover and Elk River, with the Rum River running through the city. It's a north metro city where you'll find everything from large wooded lots to newer townhomes. Here's my local guide for buyers and sellers.

Homes and lots in Ramsey

The City of Ramsey's housing page describes options "from large wooded, single-family housing lots, to townhome and apartment dwellings, to 55+ living." That range means two homes a few miles apart can come with very different upkeep and costs.

  • City utilities or well and septic. Many homes are on city sewer and water, but some larger lots have private septic systems. The city's septic systems page explains local rules, and I'll help you find out which applies to any home you like.
  • Property taxes. Look up any home's tax history through Anoka County property records.
  • Getting settled. The city's new residents page covers utility billing and garbage service.

Parks and trails: the Rum River and the Mississippi

Ramsey has two Anoka County regional parks inside city limits:

  • Rum River Central Regional Park (17955 Roanoke Street NW) has a boat launch, canoe and kayak launch, fishing pier, picnic pavilion, playground, biking and walking trails, horseback riding and cross-country ski trails. Anoka County lists a vehicle entry permit of $7 a day or $30 a year.
  • Mississippi West Regional Park (13900 Traprock Street) offers a boat launch and canoe and kayak launch on the Mississippi, canoe-in campsites, and biking, walking and regional trails.

The city runs its own network of parks and trails, including a dog park, a skate park, pickleball courts, outdoor rinks and canoe and kayak rentals. Community events include the Happy Days Festival and a farmers market.

Schools

Ramsey is served by the Anoka-Hennepin School District and the Elk River Area School District. Attendance areas go by address, so confirm specific schools with the district before you buy.

Buying a home in Ramsey

Ramsey can be a great fit if you want room to spread out, river and park access, and a spot between Anoka and Elk River. Buyers often compare it with Andover, Anoka and Elk River. Buying your first home? Read my post on first-time buyer programs in Ramsey, then start your home search. Before you write an offer, ask about utilities, special assessments and taxes on each home.

Selling a home in Ramsey

Because Ramsey has such a mix of homes, pricing comes down to good comparable sales: lot size, utilities and home style all matter. A few low-cost fixes can help; see my home staging tips. Get a free home value estimate and see what my 2% listing fee could save you on the savings calculator, compared with a traditional 6% commission.

Traditional 6% includes both the listing and buyer agent sides. Buyer agent compensation is negotiated separately.

Ramsey FAQ

What county is Ramsey, MN in?

Ramsey is in Anoka County, on the Mississippi River in the north Twin Cities metro. It borders Anoka, Andover and Elk River.

What school district is Ramsey in?

Ramsey is served by the Anoka-Hennepin School District and the Elk River Area School District. Check with the district to confirm schools for a specific address.

Are there regional parks in Ramsey?

Yes. Anoka County runs Rum River Central Regional Park and Mississippi West Regional Park in Ramsey, both with river access, trails and boat launches.

Thinking of selling in Ramsey? Get your free home value

More area guides: Andover · Blaine · Coon Rapids · all areas