Waverly, MN

Set along the shores of Big Waverly Lake about 35 miles west of the Twin Cities, Waverly offers a peaceful lakeside setting with a straightforward commute down Highway 12. With a population right around 1,900, it holds onto the warm, welcoming feel of a close-knit small town. Water is at the center of everyday life here, with Big and Little Waverly Lake framing the town and giving residents quick access to summer boating, paddling, and quiet sunsets by the water.

ATTRBen Franske / CC BY-SA 4.0

Local routines flow with the changing seasons, whether that means summer afternoons at the park, neighborhood boat rides, or setting up ice fishing houses once the lake freezes over. Families love having Humphrey Elementary located right in town within the Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted school district, named after former Vice President Hubert Humphrey, who famously kept a home on the lake. Between the relaxed pace, friendly local spots, and convenient highway access, Waverly makes a great home base for anyone looking for lakeside living within reach of the metro.