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Chanhassen is a small city located 21 miles southwest of Minneapolis in Carver County. In 2009, Chanhassen was ranked Money Magazine’s #2 place to live for its great public-school system and low crime rates. These qualities, among others, still hold true today. Chanhassen fosters a very safe and welcoming community, great for raising a family. It also has some of the best schools in the metropolitan area that continually rank above average when compared to other Minnesota schools. Additionally, Chanhassen’s inviting atmosphere makes it is a great place to call home.

The history of Chanhassen dates back to June of 1852 when the first settler, Joseph Vogle, claimed his stake. By 1853, the population began to increase as many German farmers settled in the area. This same year, the town was officially given the name Chanhassen, which is the Dakota Native word meaning “the tree with sweet sap.” In 1896, the village was incorporated and Chanhassen remained a small farming town for most of the 1900s.

The St. Paul and Milwaukee railroads brought more settlers to Chanhassen; however, the population was not increasing rapidly. By the mid-1950s, the population only reached 200, which was the same year that the village became a city. Throughout the 1970s, the city underwent major civic and industrial changes as part of its redevelopment plan. In hopes of growing the community, they built up the city and created more jobs. It was also during this time that a plot of land was purchased to create Chanhassen’s first park. As a result of the city’s redevelopment plan, the population began to increase and thrive, producing the beautiful city that stands today.

Chanhassen is home to 25,108 residents who occupy 8,955 households, 7,096 of which are family households. The city spans 20.4 miles of land giving it a population density of 1,231 people per square mile. 88.4% of the population is Caucasian, 1.4% is African American or black, 5.4% is Asian, and 3.6% is Hispanic or Latino. 50.5% of the population is female and 49.5% is male. The median age in Chanhassen is 39.4.

Much like most Minneapolis suburbs, Chanhassen experiences frigid winters with heavy snowfall and hot, sunny summers. January is the city’s coldest month with an average low of 5 degrees. There are 152 days on average when the nighttime temperature drops below freezing and 26 days when it drops below zero degrees. Even with these statistics, Chanhassen is still considered to be one of Minnesota’s warmer winter climates. It is also one of Minnesota’s snowiest cities with an average yearly snowfall of 51 inches which greatly exceeds the national average of 28 inches. December tends to be the city’s snowiest month receiving an average of 11.7 inches annually. Six months out of the year experience significant snowfall. It could start as early as November and last through April. In terms of rainfall, the city receives an average of 32 inches per year which is less than the national average of 38 inches. 40% of the city’s precipitation occurs in the Autumn, making it Chanhassen’s wettest season. Only 8% of precipitation occurs in the Spring which is the city’s driest season. June is the rainiest month in Chanhassen with an average of 11.8 days receiving rain. February tends to be the city’s driest month with only 6.3 rainy days. When moving to Chanhassen, it is helpful to keep in mind that it is one of Minnesota’s rainiest and snowiest cities, so keep your rain and snow gear handy.

July is Chanhassen’s warmest month with an average high temperature of 83 degrees. Generally speaking, the city’s most comfortable months are June, July, and August. These months have average high temperatures that range from 70 to 85 degrees. Annually, there are 7.5 days that reach a temperature over 90 degrees which is about average compared to the rest of the state.

Chanhassen has eight schools, five of which are public and three of which are private. These schools fall into two school districts–Eastern Carver County School District 112 and Minnetonka School District 276. Approximately 72% of Chanhassen’s school-aged children attend schools in the Eastern Carver County District 112 whereas about 28% attend schools in the Minnetonka School district. Chanhassen schools spend an average of $12,249 per student which is slightly less than the national average of $12,383. The schools also have an average student to teacher ratio of 17:1.

Chanhassen Elementary School is a comprehensive kindergarten through fifth-grade school in the Eastern Carver County School District. Their goal is to offer each student a personalized learning experience that best suits their learning style. Chanhassen Elementary focuses its teaching on the STEAM model which stands for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. This model allows students to become well-rounded in each of these subject areas and helps to develop their critical thinking skills. Students at Chanhassen Elementary School test far above the state average which is indicative of students performing at or above their grade level. 79% of students are proficient in math, 74% in reading, and 70% in science. Each of these percentages exceeds the state average by over 10%.

Chanhassen doesn’t have a public middle school located in its city, however, there are three within the Eastern Carver County School District. These include Pioneer Ridge Middle School, Chaska Middle School East, and Chaska Middle School West. These schools are all grades 6 through 8 and provide students with the education necessary to excel in high school. Pioneer Ridge places within the top 50% of all Minnesota schools for their test scores, and they have an average student to teacher ratio of 15:1. Students at Chaska Middle Schools East and West also tend to test higher than the Minnesota state average. All three middle schools in the Eastern Carver County School District provide students with an exceptional education that prepares them for higher-level learning.

Chanhassen High School is located in the Eastern Carver County School District and shows great promise for the future of their students. Historically, students at Chanhassen High School test higher than the state average and show above average measures for college preparedness. The high school has a 96% four-year graduation rate which exceeds the Minnesota average by 13%. In 2019, 30% of students earned a cumulative grade point average between 3.75 and 4.0 which shows the school’s dedication to helping students succeed. Also, students at Chanhassen High School are more proficient in math, science, and reading when compared to the average Minnesota high school. 63% of students are proficient in math, 66% in science, and 63% in reading whereas the state average is 47% in math, 52% in science, and 59% in reading. In addition, advanced placement courses are encouraged and offered for students who prefer a more rigorous course load. Chanhassen High School has a 27% advanced placement course participation rate which is greater than the Minnesota average of 13%.

When moving to Chanhassen it is helpful to learn a little about what the community has to offer for residents. The majority of the city is located in Carver County, however, a small portion of eastern Chanhassen falls within the Hennepin County limits. The neighborhoods provide a safe and inclusive atmosphere ideal for raising children. The neighborhoods also hold pieces of the city’s early beginning as you can find historical landmarks scattered throughout.

The city has 500 acres of land dedicated to its 44 parks and open spaces which include community and neighborhood parks and nature preserves. These spaces provide great hiking, biking, and outdoor activities for all to enjoy. There are also eleven lakes scattered throughout the community which contributes to the beauty of the city’s wildlife. In 2016, 94% of the city’s residents said that the city keeps its parks in good or excellent condition according to a community survey.

Unique to Chanhassen is Paisley Park, which for 30 years served as Prince’s private estate and recording studio. Today, it is open to the public as a museum and concert venue. This one of a kind attraction embodies everything that Prince envisioned when he wrote his song “Paisley Park.” It stands as a symbol of community, respect, and spirituality in honor of Prince’s legacy. Paisley Park offers tours that give visitors the chance to see the recording studio where Prince created some of his biggest hits, the concert venue where Prince would rehearse, and the NPG Music Club where late-night concerts were held. Visitors also have the opportunity to see Prince’s concert wardrobe, his awards, artwork, instruments, and rare music videos. When in Chanhassen, Paisley Park is definitely a must-see for Prince fans.

The Chanhassen AutoPlex is a great attraction for anyone who is interested in cars. At the end of each month, the AutoPlex holds a car show called Cars and Caves. This allows anyone with a collector, classic, or exotic car to put it on display for car enthusiasts to admire. Along with cars, visitors can also take a look at the Chanhassen AutoPlex garages, many of which are designed to fit a certain theme. Cars and Caves is a free event and is family-friendly. Each month, they raise money, and 100% of the proceeds go toward a different charity.

The first Saturday of February is special to the people of Chanhassen. Each year the city hosts its February Festival on Lake Ann. Classic winter activities such as ice skating, sledding, ice fishing, and dog-sled rides are available for the community to enjoy. The most popular event is the ice fishing contest. Over 1,000 holes are carved into the lake, and contestants have the chance at $6,000 worth of prizes. This event really brings the Chanhassen community together by drawing in a crowd of nearly 2,000 people annually. The excitement of the February Festival is never at a lull which makes it a great family event.

Once a year, the Chanhassen Parks and Recreation Center transforms its gymnasium into an art gallery for the local artisans to sell their handmade goods. Over 35 vendors gather to sell art such as jewelry, pottery, photography, and paintings. Admission to the Artisan Fair is free however, the community strives to give back to those in need, so they encourage the donation of a canned good for the local food pantry.

Chanhassen fosters a very safe and inviting atmosphere. The city’s crime rates are 64% lower than the national average with violent crime being 76% lower. It is also considered to be safer than 79% of United States cities and 68% of Minnesota cities. In recent years, the annual crime rate has decreased by 7%. Residents of Chanhassen have a 1 in 1,083 chance of being a victim of violent crime. To put this into perspective, the probability of being victimized is less than 0.1%.

To further ensure the safety of its residents, Chanhassen has created a Neighborhood Crime Watch Program. Essentially, law enforcement as well as the community combine their efforts to keep an eye out for suspicious behavior. Each of Chanhassen’s seven neighborhoods is encouraged to organize their own crime watch group.

In addition, Chanhassen takes part in Night to Unite each year. This is a nationwide event that promotes crime prevention awareness, strengthens police/community relationships, and supports neighborliness within the community. It is encouraged for each neighborhood to host a gathering in recognition of Night to Unite. City representatives and deputies make an effort to stop by each gathering to support the community and the Night to Unite program.

The Park Nicollet Clinic located in Chanhassen is an award-winning facility affiliated with St. Francis Regional Medical Center. They offer primary care in family, internal, and pediatric medicine as well as specialty care in over ten different areas. Included in their specialty services are oncology, cardiology, physical therapy, urgent care, orthopedics, and more. Park Nicollet has received countless awards for its outstanding patient care and remarkable work environment making it a reputable healthcare organization.

Being conveniently located just outside of Minneapolis, Chanhassen residents have access to the hospitals and clinics that the city has to offer. Among these include Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Children’s Minnesota Hospital, and East Bank Hospital. All of which provide exceptional medical care in a broad variety of specialty areas.

When dining in Chanhassen, consider visiting a Chanhassen Dinner Theater restaurant for an experience unlike any other. Chanhassen Dinner Theater restaurants were first established in 1968 with the intent of putting on a Broadway-like performance while enjoying a meal. It started off as a small dream of the founders, Herb and Carol Bloomberg, but today the Chanhassen Dinner Theaters are the largest dinner theater complex in the United States as well as the largest privately-owned Minnesota restaurant. Since opening their doors, over 12 million people have experienced a Dinner Theater performance which includes live music, comedy, or musical theater.

One of the restaurants included in the Chanhassen Dinner Theaters is Brindisi’s Pub. They serve up American favorites at a fair price. Their inviting atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy a meal and hang out with friends and family. They even have an outdoor patio that is dog friendly.

Aside from the dinner theaters, Chanhassen has restaurant options that suit all appetites. From Traditional Mexican to Thai food, Chanhassen has it all. The number one raked Mexican restaurant in the area is Rey Azteca Mexican Restaurant. They are open for lunch and dinner, and their menu is vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free friendly. Rey Azteca is known for having great customer service and outstanding authentic Mexican cuisine.

A local favorite for American dining is Houlihan’s, which was ranked number one amongst all of Chanhassen’s restaurants. Their menu features vegetarian and gluten-free options for those who have dietary restrictions. Their food is moderately priced but comes in large portions, and the restaurant has deals all week long.

Jungle Kitchen is a great option for cuisine that branches away from American. Their menu has a combination of Chinese, Asian, Cambodian, Thai, and Vietnamese options. They also offer vegetarian and vegan options. Their mission at Jungle Kitchen is to provide a fresh meal using high-quality ingredients while also giving customers a pleasant dining experience with exceptional service.

Chanhassen employs over 8,500 people and has over 500 businesses in the area. In the past year, the job market has increased by 1.8%, and the city has a predicted ten-year future job growth rate of 38%. This exceeds the national future job growth rate by 4.5%. Chanhassen also has a lower unemployment rate than the average United States city. Their unemployment rate is currently 2.5% whereas the national average unemployment rate is 3.9%. Chanhassen has a labor force participation rate of 74.3%. The city’s largest industries include manufacturing, retail trade, healthcare, and professional, scientific, and technical services. With the future job market on the rise and low unemployment, Chanhassen is an ideal city to find employment.

Chanhassen’s cost of living index falls at 121.4 whereas the United States has a baseline cost of living index at 100. This means that compared to the average United States city, Chanhassen is relatively more expensive to reside in. In Chanhassen, the median household income is $108,078, and the average income of a resident is $47,853. The median price of a home is $383,800 which is nearly $150,000 more than the average Minnesota home. Generally speaking, the cost of housing, transportation, utilities, and groceries is more expensive in Chanhassen in comparison to both Minnesota and the United States. However, the cost of health care is less than the average cost in Minnesota and the United States.

Chanhassen has a sales tax rate of 7.4% which is only 0.1% higher than the United States average. However, their state income tax rate is 7.1% which is 2.5% greater than the national average. This means that Minnesota is one of the United States’ more costly states to reside in.

Be sure to consider all that Chanhassen has to offer when moving to the Minneapolis suburbs. From fine dining to one of a kind attractions, Chanhassen has something that everybody can enjoy, which makes this small suburban town a great place to call home.